Not Your Typical Tent-The 411 on Fabric Covered Buildings

1. Not Your Typical Tent: The 411 on Fabric Covered Buildings Fabric structures are not a new idea; from tepees to circus tents, cloth has been used to provide shelter in many forms for hundreds of years. The idea of using tension the strengthen the structure began to emerge in the 1950’s and has since evolved into the fabric covered buildings we see today. So, what exactly is a tension fabric building, and why could it be the perfect replacement for traditional brick or steel structures? Construction A modular frame is set up on location and offers extreme flexibility with regards to foundation and placement. A fabric covered building can be set up anywhere there is a flat surface – pavement, earth, gravel – and, where there are several options available for temporary or permanent foundations, depending on your budget and needs. Frames are generally made from light weight galvanized steel to protect the structure from corrosion. Once the frame has been erected, a highly durable polyethylene (PE) membrane is stretched and secured over the frame, creating a tensioned structural support to the build frame. Possible Uses Fabric covered buildings can replace many types of commercial, agricultural, construction, and warehousing structures. They are suitable to provide shelter and housing on job sites or mining camps and are perfect for heavy machine and equipment storage. They have been used for years for agricultural storage and housing of livestock, as replacements for airport hangers, and as port buildings. Additional Features and Options Whatever the intended use – warehousing, bulk storage, airport hanger, farming, or aquaculture - fabric covered buildings are customizable to suit your needs. Most reputable suppliers will have a designated design team to work with you in throughout the building design and construction process. Your design will include items such as windows and doors, including personal, roll-up, equipment, bi-fold, and vertical doors. Other options include ventilation systems, lighting, electrical systems. Why Use Fabric Covered Buildings The growing popularity of fabric covered buildings is a result of a number of factors, but generally comes down to time and cost. Planning and constructing new brick and motor or steel structure can take years to complete. Even repurposing an existing structure takes months or

2. even years to see to completion. On the other hand, a tension fabric building can be planned, designed, and constructed within a matter of weeks. And given the modular portability of their design, fabric covered buildings are a huge time saver for businesses who frequently or potentially have the need for relocation. Because of the minimalistic and portable design of fabric covered buildings, they cost significantly less to construct than a traditional permanent structure. And the savings potential doesn’t stop at building and relocation potential. The fabric panels allow for natural light to filter in, significantly reducing electricity costs during daytime hours, representing a huge cost savings over time. Other than time and cost savings, fabric covered buildings have become a popular choice thanks to their simple, space maximizing designs and functionality. Without the need for interior structural support beams, you are left with an unencumbered open space.