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Commercial Shade Sails

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.

Architectural Design Intent Meets Buildability

Versatile Structures is proud to have been involved in the successful delivery of two custom-designed polycarbonate roofing shade structures for Brisbane City Council’s West End Urban Common project. Polycarbonate products are a continuously evolving area, and their lightweight yet strong qualities, high impact resistance, and thermoplastic resilience made them the ideal choice for this project. The architectural design intent of the shade structures presented significant challenges in terms of buildability, requiring expert engineering detailing to achieve the desired outcome. The Brisbane Council Engineering team recognized Versatile Structures’ expertise and sought our assistance in bringing the design to life. Our dedicated team provided detailed workshop drawings for all elements, including the polycarbonate and timber works. We also took responsibility for fabricating and hot dip galvanizing all the steelwork, ensuring the highest quality standards were met. Additionally, we managed the integration of electrical works within the structures, ensuring seamless functionality. To overcome site access challenges and the complexity of steel fabrication requirements, we made the strategic decision to construct the entire structure at our fabrication facility. This approach allowed us to ensure a seamless on-site integration process on the day of installation, saving time and minimizing disruptions. We are delighted to report that the entire project was completed within a two-week timeframe, meeting all the deadlines and standards set by Brisbane City Council. The successful collaboration between Versatile Structures and the council demonstrates our commitment to delivering exceptional results while maintaining strict adherence to project timelines and quality standards. Brisbane City Council, located in the capital city of Queensland, Australia, is responsible for administering a significant portion of the Brisbane metropolitan area. As the largest local government area in Australia, the council plays a vital role in shaping the city’s infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The West End, situated three kilometres southwest of Brisbane’s Central Business District, is a vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhood. With its proximity to renowned cultural and recreational attractions such as the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, State Library, and South Bank, it is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Known for its relaxed eclectic vibe, the West End attracts artists, musicians, and students. The neighbourhood is culturally diverse, with Indigenous, Greek, Italian, and Chinese communities contributing to its rich tapestry. The West End is characterized by its organic, hand-made, and artisanal offerings, with weekend markets and community gardens showcasing the innovative and alternative commercial activity in the area. By installing the polycarbonate roofing shade structures in the West End Urban Common, Brisbane City Council has not only provided much-needed shade and protection for the community but has also enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the neighbourhood. Versatile Structures is proud to have contributed to this project, supporting the council’s commitment to creating functional and visually appealing public spaces for its residents to enjoy. In conclusion, the successful completion of the polycarbonate roofing shade structures for Brisbane City Council’s West End Urban Common project highlights the importance of expert fabric selection, meticulous engineering, and seamless project execution. Versatile Structures is honoured to have played a significant role in this project and remains committed to delivering exceptional results that meet the highest standards of quality and durability.

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