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Shade Structure

The Westend Common walkway shade structure featuring a polycarbonate roof, manufactured, and installed by Versatile Structures

Polycarbonate, the ultimate UVR resistant shade structure solution

The use of lightweight polycarbonate in shade structures has become synonymous with sun protection as the material does not allow harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) rays to be transmitted. To better understand the value of polycarbonate as a protective substrate against UVR in shade structures we need to better understand ultraviolet radiation. What is ultraviolet radiation? Ultraviolet radiation or UVR, is a form of non-ionizing radiation emitted by the sun, with about 10% of the sun’s radiation being generated in the form of ultraviolet. Ultraviolet is part of the electromagnetic spectrum with waves ranging from 10 to 400 nanometres, meaning they are shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays. While ultraviolet has some positive benefits, like assisting in the production of vitamin D, it is also the source of skin cancer and its exposure to eyes have been associated with cornea damage and cataract formation – all valid reasons to be sun smart and get excellent sun protection. Thankfully, the shorter and most hazardous UV waves are absorbed by the atmosphere. At ground level, earth receives the range of 280-400 nanometres, which is further allocated to the higher Ultraviolet A (UVA) and lower Ultraviolet B (UVB) ranges The deadliest form of skin cancer, Melanoma, has been shown to correlate with the degree of UV exposure and while UV exposure also effects and degrades nonorganic materials like cars, any painted items will fade or crack over time depending on the amount of UV they are exposed to.  If you are interested to read more about ultraviolet radiation and shade sails, click here. Does polycarbonate block UV radiation? Polycarbonate nearly blocks the entire UV spectrum, does not allow any UVR transmission and absorbs UVA and UVB rays. Its UVR blocking characteristics makes polycarbonate an ideal shade solution to protect against the sun’s harmful rays and a popular choice for roofing in both commercial and residential construction. A great application for a polycarbonate roof structure would be for covering a swimming pool, allowing swimmers to enjoy the natural light without the harmful UV concerns and swim all day without having to apply sunscreen. Should polycarbonate itself be UV protected? If polycarbonate absorbs all UV radiation, do you need to treat or protect the polycarbonate? As polycarbonate absorbs all the harmful radiation it leads to yellowing or discoloration of the material over time, and eventually polycarbonate would lose its properties and break. It is therefore recommended to add a UV protection over polycarbonate to extend the lifespan of a polycarbonate structure. Reputable polycarbonate manufacturers apply a very thin UV protective layer to the sheets. This layer is invisible to the naked eye and does not impact the physical and optical characteristics of the material, while securing the performance of the sheet throughout its lifetime, even under harsh sunlight exposure conditions such as those found in Australia. When the polycarbonate is used in roofing a one-sided UV protection is enough. Polycarbonate benefits Polycarbonate is highly versatile in it is application and ideal for roofing, cladding, and skylights. Lightweight. Polycarbonate weighs half that of its glass equivalent which saves in shipping costs, handling, and installation. Durable. Polycarbonate is virtually indestructible, making it an ideal choice for protection from extreme weather conditions UVR protection. Polycarbonate does not allow any UVR transmission, while offering light transmission properties that are comparable to glass Warranty. Polycarbonate sheets are available with warranties for up to 15 years. Summary In summary, polycarbonate is an excellent material to protect people as well as non-organic items from UV exposure. However, when deciding to use polycarbonate as a shade structure solution it is recommended to have the polycarbonate sheets treated with a UV protection to extend its lifespan and save yourself money overall.

Canterbury school pool shade structure erected by Versatile Structures

Top five shade sail fabrics and how to get the perfect cover

Shade cloths, shade fabrics, and also referred to as shade sails, are not just about transforming a sunny spot into a shaded area, they are also great for providing shade over pools (like the Canterbury School pool featured above), car parks and can even be motorized like these awnings.    Regrettably not all shade cloths are created equal. When it comes to commercial grade shade fabrics, check that good quality raw materials were used as this will prevent stretching, tearing and how well the fabric endures Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast’s harsh weather conditions, while the quality of the knit design regulates the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) block capacity.   Follow our tips to ensure you get the perfect quality cover you are after: Shade cloth planning How to choose a shade sail Shopping around for a shade sail Cost of shade cloth Top 5 shade sails fabrics Shade cloth planning The sun moves as the day progresses and follows a different path as the seasons change, which means the area you are wanting to shade also fluctuates. To ensure effective coverage, the shade cloth needs to be made of quality materials that are designed for Australian weather conditions, cast shade in the right place at the right time, while the shade structure also needs to be the right size to protect from direct and indirect UVR. An effective way to start planning is thinking why you need the area to be shaded. Are you wanting to protect your customers from a downpour (learn more about waterproof options)? Or are you needing to protect valuables like a car or caravan? Or are you just needing to increase the serviceable area for a bar or coffee spot? It is also worth considering the time of day you’ll use the space and how that might vary during the year, as a cool spot in summer may be too cold in winter so a motorized awning may be the solution so you can decided on when you want coverage or not. Other questions to consider is whether you want all-day shade, or just coverage from the searing afternoon sun and are there reflective surfaces nearby such as concrete paving or light-coloured walls that could reflect UVR into the shaded area you are trying to create? How to choose a shade sail There are two types of shade cloths: knitted and woven. For optimum UVR protection, shade structures should also have as high a UVR block as possible – at least 94%.  The Cancer Council suggests choosing fabric that is dark, closely woven and heavy, as it blocks or absorbs more UV radiation. Most shade cloths sold for commercial or domestic use are knitted fabric and available in several grades from light weight to extra heavy. Domestic-grade shade cloths are generally sold at hardware stores and offer between 50% and 99% UVR protection, while Commercial-grade fabrics offer superior protection in terms of UVR block and strength and are used for larger areas. Shopping around for a shade sail The shade cloth installation industry in Australia is unregulated which means the provider may have little knowledge about the best method of design and installation to ensure proper protection and longevity of the shade structure. It is important to keep this in mind when having a shade structure custom designed, as lower quality fabrics deteriorates faster over time and are more susceptible to stretching which reduces the UVR protection, while incorrect install methods and poor tensioning will result in the sail being slack and compromising the structure during stormy conditions. When getting quotes for a shade sail structure, check the credentials of the shade installer and quality of the shade sail by asking these key questions: Does the company include a structural engineer’s report for the site and structure? Will they do a shade audit to assess where and when shade is needed on the site? What warranty applies? Do they provide ongoing services such as safety checks, maintenance, and cleaning? What are the specifications of the cloth used? What is the durability of the cloth? Has it been independently tested to confirm the UV radiation protection level? It is also a good idea to check with your local council whether you need a permit to put up a shade sail. Cost of shade cloth Typically, we either buy an item or we invest our money. A shade structure must be viewed as an investment in your property and a real asset in transforming your outdoor area into a source of pride, functionality, and enjoyment. So, ask yourself if the shade solution you are after is merely an item you buy or a return on your investment? When value is greater than price and the return on investment can be justified, price is not an issue. Also, the cost of having a shade structure will vary owing to materials, size, and complexity of the job. Here are our five preferred shade fabrics Monotec 370 Developed as a maintenance free shade cloth that withstands Australia’s harsh climate. Strongest shade fabric Maintenance free – the round monofilament yarns are resistant to dirt and debris build up Long lasting – the strength of round monofilament yarn, combined with the close lock-stitch construction makes it difficult to penetrate the fabric with damaging objects Fire retardant certified 95% UV effectiveness 16 colours 15-year Warranty Rainbow eXtreme 32 A strong heavy-duty shade cloth designed for large commercial spans. Heavy-duty shade fabric High tear resistance Ideal for large structure spans Fire rated fabric – AS-1530.3 95.8% UVR effectiveness 14 colours 15-year warranty Rainbow Z16 A quality and durable shade cloth that offer the ultimate UVR protection Popular solution for Schools and Childcare centres Fire rated fabric AS-1530.3 99% UVR protection 24 colours 10-year limited warranty Dual Shade 350 A revolutionary new architectural shade fabric using a patented knit pattern designed Dual colour: a single colour on one side and complementary colour on the opposite side Designed and engineered in Australia Fire rated fabric –

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.

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

Sunhoods installed by Versatile Structures

The aesthetic and practical value of sunhoods

As more modern, streamline buildings pop up, sunhoods and blades are increasingly more popular as they meet a few key criteria: they enhance the aesthetic appearance of a building, while providing a practical solution for protecting windows and doors from the elements, and in many cases, they also provide privacy. A sunhood and blade combination may shelter a window not only from rain and sun but also offer privacy from prying eyes depending on the way it is installed. What are sunhoods? Sunhoods are affordable, attractive, and upmarket alternatives to panel style hoods. They are a non-load bearing, decorative element that can be made from steel or aluminium and fixed around windows or doors to provide privacy and protection from the sun and rain. Building codes The National Construction Code which includes the Building Code of Australia (BCA) have specific laws about sun protection. It is important that the sunhoods and blades you chose for your development comply with BCA. Benefits of sunhoods The benefits of installing sunhoods on your building include Rain shield – sunhoods allow for windows to be open while it rains. This is specifically valuable in places like Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast that have extreme hot weather and year-round rainfall. The sunhood will however not prevent rain from coming in if there is a strong wind blowing during the rain fall Sun protection – sunhoods are a terrific way to reduce the impact of direct sun especially at noon when the sun is at its hottest, while still letting natural light in Privacy – a sunhood and blade combination are a clever solution to create privacy as a well-positioned blade can block prying eyes from the road or neighbouring residence, while still allowing you to enjoy the natural light coming into a room Value – a well-designed sunhood and blade can increase the value of a property by modernising it and adding the impression of an architecturally designed building. This is specifically valuable for older buildings in need of a facelift. Sunhoods are highly cost effective and offer a significant impact on the perceived value of a building Energy rating – by reducing the need to run aircons, sunhoods have the potential to reduce a home’s energy rating and save on electricity costs Window cleaning – less rainwater running down the windows means that windows need do not need to be cleaned as often. Cost Sunhoods are an economical way of providing shading, protection, and privacy. With sunhoods not being load-bearing or excessively big, they can be made of lightweight materials like aluminium that makes the installation process fairly straight forward and cost effective as well. Installation Sunhoods can easily be installed after a building has been engineered, as they are not load bearing. This makes sunhoods a quick and uncomplicated option to update an older building and make it look more modern. In fact, by installing sunhoods and adding cladding to a building can easily modernise an old building and shave off decades of age. Also, the installation process includes brackets, sealants, and adhesives to ensure the sunhood is fixed in place for years to come, and to avoid rain seepage and ensure there are no leaks between the structure and the sunhood. Which buildings are best suited to sunhoods? Sunhoods are used across a variety of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings like Townhouse developments Office buildings Apartment blocks Storage facilities Warehouses Residential homes Production solutions With some off-the-shelf designs available, a customised design will always perform and look better as it is specifically engineered for a particular building, as well as have less limitations, which enables you to get a sunhood solution that perfectly suits your needs. In addition, a custom solution also allows for off-site fabrication and painting, which limits the amount of onsite installation time. Finishes You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the range of colours, finishes, and textures to choose from when you decide to opt in for a custom design.

Trinity College shade sail designed, manufactured and installed by Versatile Structures

What’s the difference between shade sails and shade structures?

If you’re not familiar with the world of outdoor shade constructions, you may think that a shade sail and shade structure are one and the same. Don’t worry; it’s a common misconception. The terminology in our industry can be confusing, and these aren’t the only two names out there. While shade sails and shade structures are similar in what they do, there are some distinct differences that are important to know if you’re planning on investing in one for your home, workplace or construction project. Shade sails What is a shade sail? A shade sail is an outdoor structure designed to offer shade from the sun – and the rain. Their design is based on the same principles as a ship’s sail. A shade sail is made up of two parts: a flexible fabric or PVC membrane, which is free-spanned and tensioned between several anchor points. This tension is designed to make it more efficient at shedding water and help it stand up to strong winds.   The anchor points can take the form of vertical columns, posts or building brackets. After the posts are inserted into the ground, the shade sail fabric or membrane is attached to each post using special connections built into its corners. What is a shade sail best used for? Shade sails are recommended for use in playgrounds, council parks, child care centres, commercial applications, domestic applications and sporting clubs. Benefits of shade sails Come in a wide range of colours, sizes and materials Protect from both sun and rain Affordable option for many homes and businesses Low maintenance and require little cleaning A good quality shade sail will have a 10-15 lifespan Shade structures What is a shade structure? A shade structure is also an outdoor structure designed to offer protection from the sun and rain. However, it’s built differently from a shade sail. Unlike a shade sail, which comprises posts and a free-spanned fabric, a shade structure is an architecturally designed frame with structural steel members and a shade fabric attached. Because it’s architecturally designed, it gives the fabric a more specific shape, such as the central post curved rafter car park shade structure below. The materials used and design process make shade structures costlier than shade sails.  What is a shade structure used for? Shade structures are best recommended for commercial construction projects, corporate office parking, shopping centre car parks, sporting club grandstands and industrial spaces. Benefits of shade structures Custom designed to your exact specifications Engineered to site-specific conditions Steel coated for durability Wind ratings up to cyclone level A good quality shade structure will have a 10-30 year lifespan What about sun sail, sun shade sails and sunshades? As well as shade sails and shade structures, you may also have heard other terms being used, including sun sails, sun shade sails and sunshades. So what are they? Sun sails and sun shade sails Sun sails and sun shade sails are exactly the same as a shade sail. They’re material free-spanned and tensioned between posts or brackets. They can be waterproof or made from a standard fabric. Sunshades Sunshades are often used generically to apply to any device used as protection from the sun rays. They’re also an architectural feature used to reduce heat in a building by deflecting the sun. Types of sunshades include: Residential sun umbrellas Commercial umbrellas External awnings and blinds Aluminium screens and sun hoods All types fall under the shade system umbrella Whatever their exact design are features, shade sails, shade structures and every other type of sunshade are installed to provide shade and offer protection from harmful UV rays. Waterproof shade sails and sunshades, and shade structures, also have the added benefit of rain protection, and many stand up to strong winds. Some also include additional features such as lighting and sound. Ultimately, they all fall under the same type of product, or product umbrella (!) often referred to as shade systems. Which shade system should you choose? So, now you know the difference, which should you choose? Ultimately, it comes down to what you intend to use it for, where it will be used, and your budget. Whichever option you go for, make sure you select a reputable shade system supplier to ensure you get the most from your investment and a product that performs as it should. Also, check what council permissions you may need. [CTA] If you’re looking for a quality residential or commercial shade sail, shade structure or sunshade supplier, get in touch with our team today. We can help you select the best shade system option for your project.

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