Tensioned fabric structures and buildings are constructed by using two components. The first component is a rigid frame, typically either aluminum or steel. The second component is a durable outer membrane made of fabric that is tensioned so it will stay in place.
When the frame gets erected, the tension fabric cover is stretched out over that frame. It’s then tensioned to give occupants of the structure a sturdy and stable physical barrier between them and the weather. Even if no one is inside the structure, the barrier can prevent damage to physical contents stored within from elements like wind, snow, and rain. The fabrics used are often industrial strength, and the tensioning is done in a number of ways, depending on how the specific unit or model was manufactured. A tight-fitting membrane cover is created.
In contrast to conventional or traditional structures, a tension fabric building has a lower cost for installation. They are often bright in color and put up fast. Also, contingent upon the foundation type in question, they can sometimes be relocated with ease or even sold to another party.
The popularity of tension fabric buildings has grown the last few years. This has especially happened in the agricultural, commercial, and industrial sectors. This is because such structures make use of engineered steel trusses that get covered very fast with an industrial-strength fabric membrane. These structures go up very quickly and at low cost, especially compared to buildings that use wood, metal, or vinyl siding. There are no interior posts inside tension fabric structures, and they give owners and users a bright open space free of obstructions that are functional for a great many purposes.
Vehicle and equipment storage is one such application, and fabrication and manufacturing projects also find them useful in certain stages. Community events often use them for temporary structures, and a lot of recreational locations might use them as a seasonal structure. Road maintenance departments set them up for salt and sand storage out of the elements or other warehousing purposes. Horse shows and circuses sometimes use them for feed and hay storage. Corporations and other companies might use them for airplane hangars and mineral storage. Many owners use them as vehicular storage for cars, boats, and RVs. They also make good emergency shelters in disaster areas.
Tension fabric structures let natural light into their interior space, but they keep rain, snow, and wind from coming in. That makes them a comfortable yet effective temporary climate for many different activities and budgets.
Many jurisdictions and municipalities have rules and regulations regarding tension fabric structures, often classifying them as temporary structures. However, there can be substantial engineering limitations to them in terms of design, as mindfulness must be had regarding maximum occupancy, snow load, and wind they can endure. They also have rather limited fire safety. Permitting is necessary in many areas before they can be put up.
Some tension fabric structures are put up with an intention of them being permanent. The regulatory requirements here are far more stringent. The lifespan of many fabrics is estimated at two decades to 25 years, although sunlight is the biggest factor here. Common manufacturing materials include polyethylene or PVC. Repair and replacement pieces are often available within two business days.
