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Commercial Shade Sails

Wellington Point Park shade structure installed by Versatile Structures

The best shade sails under the sun

As with all products not all shade structures are created equal. There are however two distinct factors that makes for an excellent shade sail. The first and the most important is “fit for purpose” – is the quality of the individual elements that make up a shade structure like the fabric, metalwork, and the manufacturing of a high standard to withstand Queensland’s harsh weather conditions for years to come Secondly, when it comes to selecting the best shade structure, it needs to be well designed to meet the needs of the people using the space and aesthetically enhance the surroundings. Read more on the value of a custom shade sail. Here is a quick check list of what to consider for the best shade sail under the sun. Durability Great shade structures have steelwork with coating options of either hot dipped galvanisation, which is the process of coating steel with zinc, or powder coating or 2 Pack Paint which includes a secondary hardener known as poly-isocyanate resin. The best shade structure should come with a structural warranty of up to 15 years, and up to 10-years for the fabric and a thread. Design With a vast selection of shade structure designs to choose from, a design will be influenced by its function, the size, the type of coverage required, as well as its focal point. A sail that is built with the incorrect shape and orientation will fail to cast shade in the correct place or provide sufficient rain cover. Great shade structure installation specialists have designers that collaborate with you to create a solution that considers both the visual and functional elements to create a shade sail that is best for you. Here is a guide to shade structure styles Fabric The fabric used in a shade structure dictates whether the shade structure is waterproof, how much UV radiation it allows through or reflects, as well as how strong the structure is to resist fierce winds. Cheaper second tier fabrics are not proven to work in Australian conditions. High spec European and Australian materials are more expensive upfront but give a far better finish and much better long-term performance. Versatile Structures is a national multi-award winner since 2017 making them experts in selecting the right fabric that meets the needs of the user and withstands the environmental challenges. UVR protection Australia has one of the top highest UVR (ultra-violet radiation) ratings on the planet which makes choosing the best shade structure even more important. Not only do you want the best quality fabric, but you also need a team of shade structure designers and installers that understand the movement of the sun in Winter and Summer. Learn more about ultra-radiation and shade sails. Supplier It takes years to understand the technical properties of fabric materials and master design challenges. Avoid paying someone to learn on your job, so no less than 10 years’ commercial experience will do. Also, look for a proven history on larger scale projects, and testimonies from satisfied customers. Direct accountability from the design, fabric, steel work fabrication, through to the installation is key, should anything go wrong down the line. Dealing with a one-stop solution also cuts out go-between margins. Manufacture Sophisticated tools like computerised fabric plotter cutters, high- power radio frequency welders and high productivity installation equipment make all the difference in the finished product and factory facilities also mean installation time is minimised as most of the pre-assembly and preparation work takes place in the factory, not at your property. Conclusion As you can see there are multiple variables to consider when it comes to selecting the best shade sail under the sun. At the end of the day, it comes down to what the needs are of the people using the shade structure as well as if the design enhances the environment, it is in. Questions When choosing a shade structure that is right for you there are many things to consider like cost durability, colour, and size. Learn more about shade structures from these answers to frequently asked questions.

Shade structure installation by Versatile Structures

The complex world of a shade structure

There probably is not day that goes by that we don’t notice or utilise a shade structure of some sort: parking under cover at the mall, having coffee in an outside area protected by umbrellas or just protecting our children as they play on the park playground or at home. Shade structures are a highly effective at maximising health benefits when outdoors as they reduce immediate sun exposure and the effects of long-term sun exposure, and there are many steps to ensure they are the most effective solution, of excellent quality, installed correctly, designed to the highest building standards, meet council approval, provide protection, and compliment the aesthetics and environment they are in. Although the process may seem straight forward, do not underestimate the complexity of the design, manufacture and install a quality custom solution. If you ever wondered all goes into shade structure design and install before you see and enjoy the result, read on. Understand your need As with most services it is important to understand your need in relation to a shade structure and what you are wanting to achieve, both structurally and aesthetically. For instance, are you looking at providing an area for patrons to sit down and eat or protect them from the elements at a sporting event, keep their cars cool and protected while they are shopping, or giving an old building a fresh fresh look? It is important to be clear about the level of protection you are after for example is it only UVR, or it is privacy as well, and reducing utility bills, or protection from wind, rain, and hail? Also, think about whether you need the flexibility of to open and close the shade structure. Do your research Once your needs are clearly identified, do your research and look to find a reputable shade structure supplier. A skilled installer will act upon their own judgement, offer sound guidance, and not accept short cuts or direction from their clients no matter how well meaning. Ask questions like are they insured and licenced, do they offer a contract and written quote? Do they own and control the entire process/do they own factory facilities with access to specialist manufacturing equipment, what warranties do they offer, do they specialise in custom designs etc? Versatile Structures is proud to have won 12 national excellence awards which are testimony to our technical skills, design excellence, and innovation. Location and environment An experienced supplier will ensure they have a clear and accurate understanding of your needs by evaluating the shade structure environment, the orientation of the building, the variant in the sun’s path throughout the year to ensure the structure provides adequate shade and UVR protection, the wind strength, building requirements and approvals most suited to your area, for example a car park tarmac requires different considerations to a six-story apartment block. Furthermore, the supplier will consider access to the installation area, council approval, engineering requirements and of course, your budget. Our team is experienced in working with councils, so check in with us if you have questions. Safety and risk assessment Safety is primarily when it comes to the shade structure installation process. Each site is unique and presents its own set of risks to be managed. Excavations to install posts need to consider underground services such as power, gas, water, and fibre optic cables, while working at heights may require scaffolding, scissor lifts, or whether the project can be safely installed using a ladder. Other factors include adequate height clearance and fall zones for play parks, foundation types, wind speeds, structure supports, fixings and more. Design and Budget Once the shade structure requirements and the budget you have allocated to the project are finalised, the design and engineering team will get to work and present you with the most suitable designs. Shade structure solutions are extremely versatile and allow you to create a fully custom design that not only considers the aesthetics you’re after, but also offer the flexibility of an array of colours and substrates, to satisfy the most decerning of buyers. When it comes to budget, it is important to know that when decisions are made purely on price, there will always be cheaper shade options available. Shade structures are an investment you are making to your property and buying on price alone has its cost like lesser quality substrates and stitching, substandard services levels, workmanship and guarantees. At Versatile Structures we honour our word and ensure we deliver on price and on schedule. Production Once you approved the design, the next stage is doing a risk assessment if needed and getting the relevant council and engineering approvals for the shade structure before the project goes to into the manufacturing stage. Depending on the complexity of the project, it may require a lot of support documents like design plans, detailed drawings of the setup area, and workplace health and safety plans. A shade manufacturer that is worth his salt will ensure most of the manufacturing is done off site to limit the amount of disturbance to you and your patrons. Project management Having a dedicated project manager will ensure that you are updated every step of the process and made aware of any delays such as heavy rain that may push out the install date. Project management also takes care of external contractors like fabricators, electricians, demolition teams, excavators, site managers and architects. Versatile Structures takes full ownership of your project and deliver on what we promise, on time and on budget and our excellent quality control systems ensure you always get the highest possible standard. Installation The big day has arrived and all the decisions you have made are coming to fruition. A quality installer will ensure the structure is sound to maximise the structures’ lifespan and works from day one. As much as you would have seen renderings of the design beforehand, it is not until you are on-site and viewing the project, that it comes to life, and you fully experience the result. Fabric structures need to be tensioned correctly and need to

KFC commercial umbrella by Versatile Structures

Fixed and moveable commercial umbrellas: what’s the difference?

This article will focus on fixed commercial umbrellas as apposed to moveable umbrellas and shade structures. As is the case with most shade structures, commercial umbrellas come in all shapes, sizes and colours as well as can be made to withstand super high winds of over 100km/h and, provide not only protection from the sun but also the rain. Before listing all the different materials, styles and features it is important to first have a clear understanding of what your needs are.   Questions to ask yourself about commercial umbrellas How large of an area do you need shade? Would you like the structure to provide rain shelter? Does the canopy of the shade structure need to be collapsed and expanded? What wind rating would you like the commercial umbrella to withstand?   Different types of umbrellas The term “Umbrella” comes from the Latin word “umbra” meaning shaded or shadow. There are many options of umbrella like a cantilever or sidepost umbrella or a designer umbrella like the Vypar which can give a really nice artistic flair to an area.   Café series umbrella The Café series umbrella is also sometimes referred to as the market umbrella. Instead of getting a moveable umbrella that is either thrown over by a gust of wind or constantly being moved by patrons, consider getting a fixed umbrella. It can create the same intimate look for your venue with less of the hassle. You or your team don’t have to constantly worry that a gust of wind is going to topple over tables and hit someone in the head. The umbrellas are high off the ground so no need to duck as you squeeze in under the umbrella. We can also ensure there won’t be awkward umbrella bases that your patrons need to avoid tripping over.   Cantilever Umbrellas Cantilever umbrellas are also known as Side Post Umbrellas Cantilever umbrellas have the main post mounted to one side of the canopy. This allows you to utilise the maximum amount of shade from the canopy without having to navigate your way around a centre post which can either block a view or block eye contact when sitting at a table. Cantilever umbrellas have the option to rotate and, in some cases, tilted to block out a harsh afternoon sun.   Areas that are well suited to commercial umbrellas Commercial umbrellas are very versatile and can be installed as a single option as well as a phalanx of umbrellas in an array of patterns. Below are some suggested areas Cafes, restaurants and pubs Beer gardens Resorts Footpath and street frontage areas Schools and child care centres Aged care facilities Apartment rooftops and common areas   Commercial umbrellas fabrics There is a vast array of colours to choose from however colour options are dependent on variables such as size, the ability to provide rain protection as well as the quantity of shade you want to provide. By using thinner and thicker shade fabric weaves we can determine how much or how little sun you want to allow through. For instant 100% Acrylic fabric colours are some of the most advanced providing 99% sun block, offer water resistance, fade resistance, UV ray reflective, mould and mildew resistant. If you are after some more designer colours Serge Ferrari offers the 502 architectural PVC colours. For heavy duty commercial umbrellas   Serge Ferrari colour range   Printing Certain shade structure fabrics lend themselves to be digitally printed on, making them perfect for corporate branding. A great way to reduce the cost of the installation could be to offer a supplier the option of branding the umbrellas. For example, if you have a beer garden one of the beer suppliers could pay for or towards the umbrellas in the beer garden for the opportunity to have their logo printed on the commercial umbrellas.   Permanent / Structural Umbrellas This article is dedicated to permanent structural umbrellas even though there are some good sturdy umbrellas with a heavy base to hold them in place. Structural umbrellas however are next level, nothing beats a custom-made umbrella that has been specifically engineered to meet your needs as well as your clients. Providing benefits like: Huge range of colour options 100% UV protection Waterproof Able to withstand wind gusts of 150km/h Huge range of sizes Various styles like square, octagonal, scalloped or straight valances   Pricing From the list of various shade structure options, the number of umbrellas you are looking for as well as sizes pricing will vary significantly however for a single umbrella budget around $5,000 this price will come down as the volume increases. If you require advice it is best to contact one of our shade specialists who can review your particular circumstances and then provide tailored advice according to your needs.  

Custom Fabric Structures

Custom Shade Sails – Invest in Durable Quality

Custom Shade Sails are an investment that can provide long-lasting protection and comfort for various applications across sport, leisure, retail, residential, industrial, and commercial sectors. Cheaper, second-tier fabrics are proven ineffective against the harsh Australian weather conditions. However, advancements in fabric manufacturing have made it possible to custom-build high-quality fabric structures using international, European, and Australian materials that offer long-lasting durability and performance. A regular maintenance program including visual inspections, annual re-tensioning, and early repairs can add to the maximum lifespan of your investment. Why Choose Custom Fabric Structures? We highly recommend investing in custom fabric structures because it is a return on investment. Understanding why you need a custom shade solution is the critical first step in this process. Custom fabric structures require advanced design development, engineering, and early collaboration between the client, contractor, subcontractors, and the design team. The goal is to create a form with sufficient tension, cast cover in the right areas, and utilize substrates that withstand the harsh Australian climate. Pre-engineered generic fabric structures may offer convenience, but they provide little creative flexibility and freedom and cannot be adapted to specific situations. Knowing what you plan to use the space for can assist in making an informed decision in terms of which custom fabric structure is best suited to your needs. Whether you are looking to create a sheltered outside space for sports or need efficient protection from harsh weather conditions for your industrial operation, all our shade solutions are custom-built and installed on-site, tailored to your specific project requirements. Which Custom Fabric Structure is Right for You? We offer several shade solutions to choose from, each suited for a particular application. Your requirements and a detailed site inspection will determine the best option for you. Some of our custom fabric structures include: External Awnings & Blinds Commercial Umbrellas Shade Sails All our shade solutions are manufactured and designed in-house using the finest quality architectural fabric materials and have highly durable steel at their core. Coatings are selected based on site-specific requirements. For example, custom fabric structures for project sites that experience high humidity and regular exposure to moisture will require a different coating than a custom fabric structure designed for shade and sun protection. Our shade solutions come with warranties ranging from ten to 20 years, ensuring long-term protection for your investment. We maintain all necessary checks and insurance policies to deliver a safe and efficient build. Council Permission for Custom Fabric Structures Before installing a custom fabric structure, you may need council approval or planning permission. This depends on various factors such as the design, size, and placement of your shade solution. You may need planning permission if: Your shade solution is waterproof or made from any non-permeable material Your building is a listed local or state heritage site Your shade solution covers more than 10m2 Any part of your shade solution reaches within 1.8m of the building fence line in front of your home or perimeter. Other considerations include making sure your custom fabric structure is structurally adequate, installed following agreed-upon specifications, and compliant with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). Non-compliance can result in a substantial fine and the forced removal of your shade solution. Contact your council before installing if you plan to remove or prune any existing trees or vegetation. Fortunately, Versatile Structures can acquire all necessary council permissions for you before installation. Choosing a Reputable Custom Fabric Structure Provider Choosing the right company that manufactures, supplies, and installs custom fabric structures is crucial for consistency and ensuring your project is delivered on time.  

Shade sails at Carina State School offer good protection from the sun as the fabrics used are coated with UV protective elements.

Shade structures – your questions answered

When it comes to choosing the shade structure that’s right for you, there are lots of things to consider. There’s cost, durability, colour and size to think about. And with the harsh Brisbane sun, material durability is crucial. Understanding more about shade structures will help you make an informed decision prior to purchase. Here are answers to the questions most asked. What do I need to think about before selecting a shade structure? The type of shade structure you need will be determined by what it’s going to be used for. So, before you start to explore the different types of structures available, think about some of the following. Will the structure be exposed to adverse weather conditions? Does the structure need to cover people or vehicles? Does the structure need to be waterproof? What is the size of the area that needs to be covered? Is this structure temporary or permanent? What are the different types of shade structure? The type of shade structure you need will depend on several things. The primary purpose of the shade structure, where it will be located and how you want it to look. Once you’ve considered these things you can start looking at the options. Waterproof shade structures These are the perfect practical option for outdoor settings including car parks, playground, and restaurants. Constructed using PVC waterproof fabric these shade structures maintain a clean appearance and can be custom designed for the perfect fit. Car park shade structures These are the most popular shade structures for car parks as they provide protection against the elements for people and vehicles. Like any shade they can be custom designed and can also include lighting for use both day and night.    External awning and blinds External awning and blinds are a great option for enclosing an area to maximise its use. Providing protection from the elements, these shade structures are perfect for cafes and restaurants. Being retractable means an area can be enjoyed rain, hail or shine. Shade sail structures Shade sail structures offer good protection from the sun as the fabrics used are coated with UV protective elements. These structures are generally layered in an attractive pattern with flexible design options. They’re best suited to smaller areas such as playgrounds, car ports or swimming pools. How much do shade structures cost? Shade structures vary in cost depending on several things. The size of the structure and project, the material and fabric used, the price for installation and whether the shade is custom made or ready-made. Ready-made options are generally cheaper but not always of superior quality. What you’re saving in money you may be paying for in material quality, durability, and protection. Things are different with a custom-made shade structure. Here’s where we can help. As specialists in custom-made shade structures, we can ensure you get exactly what you want when you want. We provide a full service and offer the best quality materials and workmanship. As part of our quote, we will conduct a site inspection and include a sketch of your proposed orientation. Our custom-made shade structures also have a typical lifespan of 10-30 years giving you peace of mind. What makes a good quality shade structure? Weather tolerant A quality shade will effectively offer protection from the elements. A dark, closely woven and heavy fabric is ideal for blocking or absorbing UV rays. For that harsh Brisbane sun in particular, shade structures should have as high a UVR block as possible, at least 94%. Well manufactured Quality shade structures should meet Australian standards which means that the materials and fittings are long lasting and durable. Product brands Product brands used should be the highest quality to ensure the shade structure is long lasting. Among these brands are Serge Ferrari, Rainbow Shade, Mehler Texnologies and Monotec 370. The lifespan and warranty of the product. A good quality shade structure will come with a warranty and have a lifespan of 10 – 30 years. All fixtures and fittings should be engineering to site specifications. If you’re looking to purchase a shade structure, get in touch with our experienced team today. We can offer advice and help you choose the right fit for you.

Different types of commercial shade systems explained

Commercial shade systems are everywhere – from cafes and restaurants to playgrounds, shopping centres, footie stadiums and high-rises.   As well as providing protection from the elements, including sun, rain and wind, they can maximise outdoor space, enhance the visual look of a building or landscape, and even offer energy efficiencies and savings. But, with so many commercial shade systems on the market, you might be wondering which is best for your commercial space or project. We’ve broken down each in detail to help you make the right decision. Commercial shade sails Commercial shade sails are outdoor structures that are based on the same principle as a ship’s sail. They’re made up of a flexible fabric or PVC membrane, free-spanned and tensioned between anchor points. They can be very cost-effective. Recommended commercial applications Council parks and playgrounds School playgrounds Landscaping projects (hotels, sports courts, zoos, airports) Child care centres Considerations when choosing commercial shade sails Custom design or pre-fab Shade efficiencies (UV, rain) Site-specific engineering (wind rating) Warranty (10-15+ is ideal) Quality of materials (Australian approved recommended) Commercial shade structures Commercial shade structures are different to shade sails. They include an architecturally designed frame with structural steel members and a shade fabric. They can be used in various commercial settings and have a fixed shape.   Recommended commercial applications Construction projects Council parks and playgrounds School playgrounds Landscaping projects (hotels, sports courts, zoos, airports) Considerations when choosing commercial shade structures Custom design Shade efficiencies (UV, rain) Wind rating (including cyclonic) Site-specific engineering Lifespan (10-15+ is ideal) Quality of materials ( Australian approved recommended) Commercial car park shade structures Commercial car park shade structures are a type of commercial shade structure specifically designed to protect vehicles from the elements. They can range from covering just a few bays to rows and rows designed to house hundreds of cars. Recommended commercial applications Corporate office parking Public space parking Shopping centre car parks Hotel and club car parks Considerations when choosing commercial car park shade structures Custom design Wind rating (including cyclonic) Steel coating for site-specific conditions Lifespan (10-30 years is ideal) Electrical fittings (lights, sound) Quality of materials ( Australian approved recommended) Commercial waterproof shade structures Commercial waterproof shade structures include commercial shade structures and car park shade structures. However, not all waterproof shade structures are fully waterproof – so make sure you check the fabric/material. They’re very robust. Recommended commercial applications Commercial construction projects Corporate office parking Shopping centre car parks Sporting club grandstands Considerations when choosing waterproof shade structures Custom design Wind rating (including cyclonic) Steel coating for site-specific conditions Lifespan (10-30 years is ideal) Electrical fittings (lights, sound) Quality of materials (Australian approved recommended) Commercial umbrellas Commercial umbrellas are a type of umbrella that’s stronger than a standard sun or patio umbrella but are still lightweight and flexible. They come in various shapes and sizes and are great for maximising your useable outdoor space.  Recommended commercial applications Cafes and restaurants Pubs and hotels Resorts Sporting clubs Commercial buildings Considerations when choosing commercial umbrellas Custom design Branded colours Minimum design wind speed 145KPH 100% UV stabilised Collapsable or fixed Cantilever or centre post Waterproof or non-waterproof Coated steel for added protection Electrical fittings (lights, sound) Quality of materials ( Australian approved recommended) Commercial awnings and blinds Commercial awnings and blinds are more robust than their non-commercial counterparts and an excellent choice for enclosing an area and increasing usability in adverse weather conditions. Being retractable they allow the user to adapt to the changes of the day Blinds and louvres are fixed to the window and pulled up or down or open and shut; awnings are roof-like structure that extend out. Recommended commercial applications Commercial construction projects Cafes, dining and retail Swimming or sports centre Corporate offices Considerations when choosing commercial blinds and awnings Custom design Branded colours Wind speed of 40km/h or above Lifespan (typically 5-10+ years) Motorised or manual Wind sensors Fixed or retractable (awnings only) Quality of materials (Australian approved recommended) Commercial polycarbonate roofing Polycarbonate is a strong thermoplastic material that’s lightweight, shatterproof and can withstand very low and high temperatures. Polycarbonate roofing can be used for a wide variety for solutions, including roofing, cladding, skylights, façade, and shading. Recommended commercial applications Commercial construction projects Cafes, dining and retail External architectural structures Nurseries and plant shops Hotels and resorts Considerations when choosing commercial polycarbonate roofing Custom design Light requirements UV stabilised materials Extruded colour options Lifespan of 5-10+ years Quality of materials (Australian approved recommended) Commercial insulated panel roofing Insulated panel roofing offers a durable ceiling, insulation, and roof sheet all in one. A typical sandwich pane includes a low density, thermal insulating and sound reducing core with a thin skin layer (metal or polymer) bonded to each side. Recommended commercial applications Construction projects Cafes, dining and retail School roofing structures Outdoor public seating areas Commercial aluminium screens and sunhoods Commercial aluminium screens and sunhoods are an aesthetic, durable and highly- functional addition to any commercial building.  Screens sit flush against the exterior while sunhoods protrude. Both provide sun control and energy savings. Recommended commercial applications Construction projects Low, medium and high-rise Residential and townhouse developments Considerations when choosing commercial aluminium screens and sunhoods Custom design Range of colours and finishes (including Timber look) Colourbond colour options Standard or recyclable Lifespan (20+ years is ideal) Quality of materials (Australian approved recommended) Commercial shade systems – choose the best investment Commercial shade systems are an investment, so make sure you make the right choice for your space or project. While there’s a lot to consider, hopefully this has made your decision a little easier.   If you’re looking for a quality commercial shade system, get in touch with our experienced team today. We can help you select and design the perfect solution for your space or project. Plus, we’ll install it quickly and safely.

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