Air movement in an occupied space gives a feeling of freshness by lowering the skin temperature, and the more varied the air current in velocity and direction, the better the effect. A major benefit of a shade canopy is that the HDPE fabric allows air to move freely through the membrane while shielding the underlying space from the direct rays of the sun. While fans will not affect the temperatures of inanimate objects like automobiles, they can be a worthwhile addition to rest areas for people or shelters protecting enclosed animals in feedlots.

Depending upon the design of the shade canopy and the type of fabric used, varying amounts of rainwater will be dispersed along the perimeters of the membrane cover. In locations where the expected volume or velocity of that flow might become a problem, some customers have elected to include a water collection and dispersal system in the initial design. The resultant solution might be intricate with hidden drains in the support columns and extensive underground drains or relatively simple. Water removal is not generally a problem in the sunny, more arid regions of the country, but prospective purchasers who are considering a structure of any type should be aware of any governmental restrictions on water dispersion before committing to a construction project.

Any area that will be protected by a shade canopy is likely to be used during times of the day when natural lighting is unavailable. Artificial lighting has been recognized for years as the single greatest deterrent to illegal or questionable acts. Adding lights to your shade canopy will make your property more secure and more inviting for your customers, employees, and visitors. The variety of lighting available to you ensures that you can select a lighting combination to meet your needs.

Industrial firms and private companies need to protect their people, equipment, and facilities on a 24 hour, 7 day basis. Combining a set of mounted security cameras with shade canopies will allow you to monitor your assets full time without a physical presence on site.

While the design and color of your new shade canopies will become a key identifier of your location within weeks of the installation, the physical structures can function as additional property signage for your operation. We often duplicate and enlarge company logos and sew them into the canopy membrane for additional branding, thus enabling your name to be visible for long distance, even to passengers on airlines overhead.

Signs can be mounted on columns where suitable brackets have been installed for on-site directions, cautions, or promotions. You should be aware that many communities have ordinances defining “signs” and limiting their use. Your ability to use canopy or column signs may be restricted.

Area-wide communication is often necessary in the event of impending weather, natural disasters, or public service announcements. Employees and patrons may be located over a wide area where individual conversation or notice is difficult. In such cases, audio speakers can be mounted on columns at a height protected by the canopy and out of the reach of possible vandals.

The accessories described in the preceding paragraphs can be easily added to your project individually or in combination. If you wish to consider one or more of the above features, we will be happy to analyze the costs of adapting the structure to accommodate the amenities and the electronic equipment for the selected feature and include those costs in the estimated price.

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