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how long does it take to install a shade structure?

How much time to allow for a custom shade project

One of the first questions we get asked when we work on a new shade project is how long will it take from design to install? Unfortunately, rain, council approval, and COVID-19 restrictions are factors outside of our control which can all negatively impact the turnaround time for any shade structure project. The short answer though is to allow up to 12 weeks from the day you sign the contract, through to the day you get to use your new space. In this article we will share the behind-the-scenes process during this period and all the aspects to consider that may impact these timeframes. It may also be worth reading about the complex world of shade structures to get a better understanding of what all goes into creating a shade structure. 1. Quote Quotes can be provided on receipt of full tender architectural drawings and or we can assist you with the basic scope and provide the plans or drawings. On approval of the quote, we will enter into an agreement that outlines the project specifications, materials used, install date, and costs. Allow up to one week for us to send the quote to you. The final sign-off timeframe will depend on the time it takes to get your feedback and approval. Shade structure design involves all parties, from you the client, as well as the builder, architect, engineer, and regulators if required. It is advised that you have a clear vision of what you want from your shade structure beforehand and if you’re looking for guidance, the article on a guide to shade structure styles may help you. Timeline: Full tender 1 week. Basic scope 1 – 2 weeks 2. Site Inspection For the basic scope, and to best understand your needs, we do a site inspection and survey to collect accurate data for auto cad drawings, assess the sun’s path and other weather factors, and discuss the shade design fabric, colour, and powder coating options for steelwork based on your budget. We also meet with service locators during the initial site visit to check underground electrical copper or plumbing services. Timeline: 1 – 2 weeks 3. Preliminary architectural drawings The next stage is creating architectural drawings of your shade structure. These drawings consider all parameters like existing landscape and buildings, the purpose of the structure, shade optimisation, soil types, site access, external approvals, and more. Designed by our engineers, these drawings will offer you a visual representation of the scope of work and detail the structure dimensions, and elevations or heights. We can consider existing drawings you may have. Timeline: 1 week, depending on the scale and complexity of the project 4. Engineering review and Certification We advocate engineering for all shade structures to guarantee structural integrity and compliance is achieved. The structure design considers the location of the shade structure and involves specifying footings, sizes of the steel posts and overhead beams, steel diameter, cabling, loads and method of fixing at ground level. We choose to have an inhouse engineer as it not only ensures faster turnaround times, but also provides our clients with peace of mind that the project is structurally sound and suited to their site conditions. You will want to avoid a situation where your shade structure supplier says the engineering for the project will not work and the engineer saying it will and having an engineer on our team ensures that you do not have to concern yourself with issues like that. Also, once the project is completed, we will issue certification form 15 confirming that the structure meets the design specs, structural integrity, and compliance. Timeline: 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the scale and complexity of the project 5. External approvals The timeline for this stage is dependent on the type of project and its location as every council we have worked with has varying requirements for approval. No approval process can be more vigorous than the approval we went through with the award-winning shade structure we designed, manufactured, and installed for the Noosa Botanical Gardens, that also called for a fauna and flora management plan.  Timeline: 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the scale and complexity of the project 6. Manufacturing  When it comes to the manufacturing of a shade structure, most people are uninformed as to what all goes into a successful project. The steel structure is backbone of your project, while the fabric or membrane forms the roof of the shade structure. It is important to know if the shade supplier you are working with manages the manufacturing as well. Dealing with one company who owns and controls the entire process cuts out go-between margins and means direct accountability from the design, fabric, steel work fabrication, through to the installation, should you need assistance down the line. Timeline: 2 weeks for fabric manufacture Framework Steel structures need to be dipped in zinc, hot dipped galvanised or powder coated to offer complete rust protection Our steel structures are unique and designed by our draftsman and certified by a structural engineer. Timeline: 2 – 4 weeks Materials Check the quality of materials that are used. Shade sail fabrics and PTFE threads need to be of the highest quality to withstand Queensland’s harsh weather conditions for years to come.   Hardware The structural loads and tensioned membrane structure requirements determine the size and shape of the hardware (wire rope grips, shackles, turnbuckles, terminal end swages) used for the shade structures’ connection points. Quality of workmanship Then there is also the quality of workmanship in the welding, stitching, dual layered and reinforced corners, edges, pockets, 100% High frequency welded overlapped seams and other structural elements Timeline: 2 – 4 weeks, depending on the scale and complexity of the project 7. Foundations and posts Your shade structure project is starting to take shape. Work areas will be fenced off while foundations are excavated, the posts placed, and concrete is poured. We excavate up to 2-meter-deep footings, use engineer certified steel reinforcement cages to hold the

Shade structure blocking the sun by Versatile Structures

About ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and shade sails

Research tells us that Australia is in the 5 top happiest countries on the planet. It offers carefree living, unrivalled natural beauty, a growing economy, and a diverse mix of cultures from all over the world. But there is a catch though: besides it being home to some of the deadliest animals like the box jellyfish, taipan snakes, saltwater crocodiles and redback spiders, the Australian sun also seems to be out to get us. The Australian sun is much harsher and with higher UV radiation levels than other continents and known for having the highest skin cancer rates in the world. This is specifically true for areas like Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast as we experience fantastic weather all year round and tend to spend more time outdoors. This article is not about educating you on sun protection but rather to highlight the importance of making smart decisions when choosing a shade sail, as not all shade sail fabrics are equal. Shade sail function Shade sails are a cost-effective way to increase a property’s footprint and its value. Besides the aesthetic, practical, and comfort providing qualities, a shade structure is of the best solutions for year-round protection against the harsh sun and its harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR). A shade sail’s design and exact positioning are vital as UVR rays vary in intensity, reaches us from various angles: directly from the sun, but also being reflected from the environment. Think about all the reflection from the snow when skiing. Shade sail fabrics are tested for how much ultraviolet radiation the materials transmit. If the shade cloth is over stretched during installation the UVR protection is impeded and reduces the effectiveness of a shade structure How much the shade fabric stretches depends on the type of shade cloth used, the support system as well as the installation itself. Owing to very little regulation in the shade structure industry you need to get an experienced installer to ensure the installation has the right amount of tension to ensure optimal UVR protection as well as ensure the best lifespan of the shade fabric. Knitted shade cloths do stretch and are generally transmit more UVR, while woven shade cloths do not stretch much at all and are therefore transmits less UVR. Sun position Installing a shade structure isn’t just about selecting the correct shade fabric but also understanding the movement of the sun’s changes between Winter and Summer. The incorrect orientation of the shade fabric may result in a shade structure that provides inadequate protection in Summer and turn your shaded area into a frigid zone in Winter. Sun protection classification As much as we would like there to be a grading of sun protection for shade structures there are numerous variables that make it challenging, like the design of the shade structure, the distance from the person sitting or standing under a shade structure as well as the reflection and diffused radiation that varies on the substrate used on the floor. For instance, grass has lower radiation than a tiled floor. Even though the authorities can’t agree the shade fabric itself can have up 99% UV blocking ability. The Cancer Council recommends to Choose fabric that is dark, closely woven and heavy, as it blocks or absorbs more UV radiation. Conduct a shade audit of the site where shade is required Confirm with your local council whether you need a permit to put up the shade cloth. Check the credentials of the shade installer and quality of the shade cloth, such as Does the company include a structural engineer’s report for the site and structure? What warranty applies? Do they provide ongoing services such as safety checks, maintenance, and cleaning? What are the specifications of the cloth used? Has it been independently tested to confirm the UV radiation protection level? What is the durability of the cloth? Conclusion The success of a shade fabric blocking ultraviolet radiation depends on the way it’s designed and installed. For these reasons, it is recommended you find a skilled and experienced designer and installer. Feel free to download a copy of our shade smart guide for more information.

commercial shade structure by Versatile Structures

A guide to shade structure styles

What is a shade structure? Shade structure means a roofed structure which can be either freestanding or fixed to a building for the purpose of providing shade or shelter from the weather. The shade structure can be over entrances to buildings, external entertaining areas, vehicles, loading/unloading areas, or the like, but does not include the use of land under that structure, which would otherwise require a separate development approval. Shade structure styles With so many diverse types of shade structures available, when it comes to choosing a shade structure for your business or residential project, it is important be clear about its function, the size, type of coverage and its focal point. Below is a range of shade structure styles to choose from. Screens and sunhoods A sunhood may not be the first shade structure that comes to mind; however, they are cost-effective and practical shade structure solutions to protect apartment and office building windows and doors from weather elements, as well as offering privacy. Sunhoods are exceptionally durable, and an attractive solution to revamp an old façade. Read more Umbrellas The humble umbrella has come a long way from the parasol used over 4,000 years ago by Chinese. With so many styles to choose from, from cantilever umbrellas, structural umbrellas, and café style umbrellas to permanent and movable solutions. Read more about umbrellas, their benefits and pricing. Awnings An awning is the ideal shade structure solution to create indoor-outdoor living areas. Awnings are an investment for any business or home as they add eye-catching aesthetic accents, as well as reduce energy bills by protecting interiors from heat gain. Businesses have an additional benefit of increasing their retail footprint and turnover, by creating protected outside areas for their customers to dine and relax at. Learn more about awnings here. Heavy duty sails When it comes to commercial applications such as large high tension shade structure sails or one-of-a-kind architectural shade structures that require high structural support, heavy duty sails are the perfect solution.  A 320 GSM (grams per square metre) is one of the heaviest shade cloths around and ideal for large spans as it offers great strength and durability. Read more about heavy duty shade structure stitching and protection. What shade structure is best There is not a straightforward answer to which is the best shade structure. The answer lies in what you need as well, as what will work best in the environment the shade structure will be living. There are so many factors to consider like the size of the structure, how much wind it needs to withstand, does it need to be waterproof or does it need to open and close at certain times of the day. Read more about deciding on which shade structure is best for you.

Heavy-duty shade sail

When to install heavy-duty shade sails

There are significant differences in the various types of shade sail fabrics on the market. The most obvious differences are colour and shade structure shapes; however, you also need to consider the type of fabric used in the shade structure as each substrate type has a specific function. When it comes to commercial applications such as large high tension shade sails or one-of-a-kind architectural shade structures that require high structural support. A 320 GSM (grams per square metre) offers great strength and durability as this is one of the heaviest shade cloths around and ideal for large spans. If you are after a shade sail solution for a shopping centre car parks, sports facility, outdoor areas, hospitality, public pools, or commercial business, here’s what to know: Quality Generally, shade sails either use canvas fabrics or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). When looking for a heavy-duty shade sail you need to use a high-density polyethylene that has used knitted shade fabric and has UV additives to protect the fabric from harmful UV specifically in our harsh Australian sun. Substrate As mentioned, canvas fabrics as well as high density polyethylene (HDPE) are common however when looking for a heavy-duty shade sail it is also worth considering waterproof PVC fabric. Waterproof PVC fabric has more benefits and is often cheaper however there are generally fewer colour options. Waterproof PVC is heavier than (HDPE) and it also doesn’t allow wind to pass through the fabric it requires a more industrial-strength shade structure. Stitching The weakest point of clothing we wear is generally the areas that have been stitched together like seams or hems. It is the same for shade fabric. The stitching is often the weakest point because it is where the shade fabric was cut or is holding the most tension. You want to be sure the shade fabric is using a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) thread as well as enforced connection points. The heavy-duty polytetrafluorethylene stitching is critical as it contains UV stabilizers crucial in ensuring the shade sail doesn’t come apart after a year or two in the Australian sun. Protection Besides commercial shade sails’ extraordinary strength, long-lasting durability and longevity, they offer up to 95.8% UVR (ultraviolet radiation) protection, have outstanding heat and glare reduction as well as resistance to dimensional stability qualities, are hail resistant and fire rated, and are simple to maintain. Conclusion Ask for a knitted shade fabric made from high-density Polyethylene if colour is important to you however if you are after a serious heavy-duty sail then ask about waterproof PVC for your shade structure. Also, ensure that you have the right stitching and enforced connection points for the ultimate heavy-duty sail.

shade sail repair in progress

Repair or replace your shade sail?

Shade sails don’t always need to be replaced, often repair can be a more cost effective way of extending the life of your shade sail or shade structure. The key to knowing when to repair or replace your shade sail or shade structure lies in understanding by how long the life of the shade structure will be extended if you repair. For example, the shade structure or sail is heavily damaged, and a repair will be much cheaper than a replacement however the repair will only squeeze another year or two out of the life span of the shade structure. How to avoid shade sail repairs Here are a couple of shade sail maintenance activities you can do to maximise the life span of your shade structure. Regularly hose down your shade sails (do NOT use high pressure sprayers) Brush your shade sails with a soft bristled brush or broom Ensure the shade sail tension is taunt Check your shade structure for any areas of potential failure, for example rust showing on the frame or a small tear in the shade fabric. (a stitch in time saves nine) Why don’t shade sail structures last In a word our climate, is the biggest driver of shade sail deterioration. Our climate here in Brisbane and all the way up the Sunshine Coast in Queensland isn’t the friendliest of environments for shade structures. Shade sails are exposed to some harsh treatment from long periods of high rain as well as very strong winds which are constantly working at breaking shade sail fabric as well as connection points. Added to the wind forces there are high UV levels as well as high heat that are constantly expanding joints and materials. Replacement Advice Most of the time without any professional shade structure experience you will be able to make a judgement call as to whether or not you should repair or replace. My advice to you though is to get a quote on the repair as well as a quote to replace and then compare the guarantees of the workmanship as well as the materials used. For instance a repair may come with a 2 or 3 year guarantee while a new shade structure will come with 15 years and can be engineered to withstand winds of over 150km per hour. If you are prone to getting high winds a replacement may be cheaper in the long run. Another important factor to consider is how long are you going to be using the building. If you are moving out in a year or two repair maybe a smarter option. nd winter winds both have a share in causing potential damage to your shade sail. As with any outdoor product, your shade sail may need to be replaced after a number of years. If you are unsure we will the the cost benefit analysis for and take the worry out of replacing or maintaining your existing shade sails whether it be due to damage or if you would just like a change. On or off-site shade structure repairs Depending on the environment of the shade structure and the kind of damage that needs to be repaired a decision will be made as to whether an onsite or off-site repair will be the most cost effective and the least impacting on your customers. If the shade structure repair work will heavily impact the use of the shade structure area by customers and potentially impact their safety we will advice an off-site repair so you can continue running your business with minimal disruption. Our shade structure services include: Storm damage repairs Onsite inspections Safety inspections Condition reports General maintenance Sewing and re-stitching Tightening Cleaning Shade sail or Structure Replacement Should you decide that the best option is to replace your shade sail fabric or even look at the structure itself there are some great options with fabrics that have 15 year guarantees as well as potentially changing a shade fabric to a waterproof fabric we can guide you through the pros and cons as well as show you examples of what a completed project could like with your fabric and colour choice. Conclusion The more information you are able to share with the team reviewing your specific situation the better the advice you will get.

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.  

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