When you're designing outdoor spaces for people to enjoy recreation, sports or aquatics, it's important to provide a way for patrons to get out of the sun. Fabric shade structures are a great way to increase the comfort of guests while also adding an aesthetically pleasing element to your site. At the same time, shade structures are important for helping visitors protect themselves from the sun's harmful UV rays.
Q: We want to add shade structures at our site. but we're concerned about bad weather. What should we know?
A: First, select permanent shade structures rather than portable ones for maximum wind resistance. Most substantial shade structures embedded in concrete footers should be rated to at least 90 mph wind resistance.
Extreme weather can be a problem in many areas. When looking for shade solutions for your site, be sure to do your research. For exceptional events like tropical storms or winter weather, you want to find a shade canopy that is easily removed and reattached.
The best shade structures feature removal and reattachment systems that are simple, requiring no special tools and allowing your own maintenance personnel to handle the job quickly and easily. This way, when bad weather threatens, you can quickly get your shade canopies removed, protecting your investment. In addition, shade canopies that can be easily removed and reattached will simplify maintenance.
Q: What else should we consider?
A: Shade canopies are available in an impressive range of configurations, colors and designs, so you can easily find the perfect fit for your site. Single-post and double-post solutions limit obstacles, allowing you to provide coverage on a pool deck or over spectator seating.
Look for fabric shade structures that keep the air beneath them cool, and try to find a solution that will block out as much of the sun's harmful UV rays as possible. You can find shade fabrics that will screen out up to 99 percent of UV rays while lowering ambient temperatures below by as much as 20 degrees.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Shade Systems Inc.
800-609-6066
www.shadesystemsinc.com