Welcome to the Winter 2022 edition of the Outside Comfort Zone. In this month?s edition you will find tips on what to consider when specifying a canopy Information on our tree planting scheme A case study following a recent installation at Conway Respite Centre and a canopy installation in less than 1 minute plus much more
Yes, you did read that title correctly and no it?s not entirely true However, it is true that you can watch a full canopy installation in less than one minute Thanks to time lapse technology, you can watch the full six day canopy installation we completed at a secondary school in Shropshire in a bitesize time
During the last week of July 2022, we supplied and installed a mega 40 metre Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy at Charlton School The school were looking at giving their students an area they could use to socialise and enjoy their break times outside with their friends all year round in the great outdoors.
This was a great installation to document on film due to its large length and the wonderful, modern area it is situated within The installation took place over six days and the end result was just as we had planned, leaving the school with a large, covered area that can be used in all weathers because not only does it shelter from the rain, Lowering the risk of sun exposure for pupils. You can watch the full video by visiting our website: www ablecanopies co uk/blog/2022/08/a canopy installation in less than 1 minute/
Specifying canopies for your projects is much easier when the canopy design is flexible can be adapted to suit your specific project. The Tarnhow Dome Free Standing Canopy is a perfect example of this. Because we design the canopy in house and every canopy is made to order, we can adjust the design (subject to structural calculations and viability) to suit your exact requirements This makes it very popular with Architects and Contractors End users love it too, because the large timber beams create an aesthetic appeal that is hard to dislike.
The below Tarnhow Dome was installed at Barking Abbey School in Essex, they wanted to provide cover from the weather within their playground that also covered the entrance to two different rooms within the building. To do this, we created an ?L shape?design, so it wraps around the corner of the building
Northam Farm Holiday Park in Burnham on Sea had an extra large outdoor dining area they wanted to protect from the weather Total area was 30m x 12m, this allowed them to cover the a large area as required, maximising their profits due to being able to serve more customers at any given time.
This primary school in Birmingham had a new extension built and wanted to add a canopy onto the entrance to protect it from driving rain and wind We installed a Tarnhow Dome Free Standing Canopy and included windows and doors, effectively creating a porch with a canopy on the front for double weather protection
Enabling your clients to make the most of their outside area without the weather stopping their plans is a luxury that they could enjoy every day. With the addition of a canopy,your clients will have an outside area that is sheltered from the weather all year round for constant use
36 square metres with one single post
Whether they have asked you to cover a large or small space that requires shelter, commercial canopies are the perfect weather protection solution
The Ulverston Umbrella is particularly perfect for areas where you would like to use minimal posts, making the area feel more open.
This waterproof fabric umbrella can cover up to 36 square metres with just one centre post, it is a permanent umbrella that is installed into the ground and is left open all year round There?s no need to collapse it in windy weather as it has been structurally engineered to withstand the UK?s ever changing weather
36 square metres in the Ulverston covers a 6m x 6m square shaped area; it is only available in squares
however, smaller sizes are also available including 3m x 3m, 4m x 4m and 5m x 5m. These permanent umbrellas are most popular within schools and restaurants and are often used to provide shade and shelter above picnic tables for use as outdoor dining canopies They are also popular for providing playground shelter, so children can still play outside even when it?s raining However, due to the large size they can span, they are also perfect for sheltering outside lessons, creating outdoor classrooms
All the Colours of the Rainbow Cheer up rainy days by choosing one of the 40 fabric colours available to cover the waterproof umbrella. Select a bright colour to add energy to your project, or a mellow colour to add a sense of calm With 40 colours to choose from you can also select a shade that matches your clients branding colours and exterior building colours.
If the Ulverston Umbrella sounds like the perfect solution for your project, contact us to request a free online estimate Give us a call on 0800 389 9072 or email: sales@ablecanopies.co.uk
Council: Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council Contractor: R H Fullwood Ltd
Products: Two Devoke Junior Free Standing Canopies
Sizes: 10.96m x 2m and 7.34m x 2m
Frame Colours: Anthracite Grey RAL 7016 Polycarbonate Colour: Opal Installation Dates: September 2022
Conway Respite Service is a care home in Rotherham which specialises in caring for those with learning disabilities and autism They have a block of residential houses available for those in need of 24-hour care, so their families and full-time carers can have some time to themselves.
The Devoke Junior Walkway Canopy was the chosen shade and shelter solution because they required a canopy that was a free standing structure They also liked the appearance of the Devoke Junior including the curvature of the roof.
Following the initial proposals, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council then put the project out to Tender and the winning bid was from R H Fullwood Ltd We had worked with them before on various projects and have a great working relationship with them
The Building Surveyor from Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Councilreached out to Able Canopies Ltd because their staff were accessing two separate buildings with no shelter between them. They wanted to connect the buildings as cost effectively as possible and keep staff dry when moving from one building to the other
One of their options would have been to build an extension that connects the buildings however this would be very costly and would cause a lot of disruption to the staff and residents The perfect solution which is cost effective and causes minimum disruption is a covered walkway canopy
The Devoke Junior Free Standing Canopy allows for the roof to over sail the existing buildings?rear extensions, so the rain doesn? t run down in front of the doors This was perfect because it means staff and residents will no longer get wet when entering or leaving the walkway and buildings
Because the two buildings that the canopy connects are not parallel; one is further back from the other, and there was also a step down from one area to the other, we all agreed to ?split?the walkway into two separate canopies
The width of the Walkway only needed to cover the existing footpath, this allowed for the front foundations to be in the grass away from the path. This meant we were able to save time on the installation because we didn? t need to remove and reinstall the existing paving slabs.
In September 2022, we supplied and installed a 10 96m x 2m and a 7 34m x 2m Devoke Junior Free Standing Canopy connecting the adjacent buildings, keeping staff dry and sheltered
There?s a wide range of canopy products on the market to upgrade outdoor spaces into usable, safe areas in all weather conditions The requirements for each job can vary depending on the end user needs ? and to ensure the most suitable solution is installed, the specific site and potential weather conditions should always be assessed. The footprint and camber of the site and the materials of the existing building will all have an influence on the design and fixing of the canopy
These factors will have an impact on the structural integrity of the canopy and will always be assessed at the survey stage The canopy itself is made up of several different extruded and preformed profiles which are designed and tested to ensure structural strength is maintained throughout the life of the structure The configuration and setting out of these components is decided only when a set of site specific calculations are undertaken, this is because different areas of the country will be subject to higher/lower wind and snow loadings, specific to the location
Firstly, the height, span and projection of the canopy will need to be considered to make sure it suits the clients?requirements. These will all influence the proposed solution and ultimately the canopy?s end usability It is crucial to always ensure that during the design stage to try to maintain the largest useable footprint possible, i e by minimising post positions, resulting in less posts and more useable space
A canopy?s foundations are vital to its structural stability as mentioned above with the member sizes. All canopy foundations should be individually assessed to make sure they
provide adequate anchoring ? for example, a canopy in a higher, more exposed location would require larger foundations to cope with the increased wind loads that such an environment would create.
Once the size of the installation has been agreed and the foundations checked, if the canopy is wall mounted, the correct fixing?s will be required to ensure the canopy can be fixed to an existing building in a way that ensures a strong join If access to strong structures such as steel beams or solid brick work is not possible, then a bespoke fixing will be designed This will need to have its own set of calculations to ensure it can take the loads that will be placed on it, and that it will safely and securely keep the canopy in place
A lot of the calculations completed externally will be relating to the weather ? after all, the canopy is upgrading an outdoor space that requires shelter from the elements In the UK, there is an average of 133 days of rain and snowfall per year, so this will need to be considered to ensure the canopy is able to cope
The material used will of course come into consideration Timber will have a different weight to aluminium, for example, and will require different calculations to ensure it is suitable for end use
Many end users are keen to take advantage of unique elements that can be added to the canopies ? such as canopy side panels to enclose the canopies for additional weather protection Understandably, these additions
will require different calculations, as it will change the weight of the roof system
When complexities occur, such as for bespoke projects, the required calculations will need to be produced to meet the demands of the site and ensure safety for all users
An example of this is the installation at Bournemouth University by Able Canopies The two bus shelters brought together several variables mentioned above the addition of solar panels, unique finishes to the ends of the canopies, an exposed position to the weather, and the use of steel on a large scale.
The calculations for this installation alone ran to over 90 pages, which shows the level of detail required to ensure that a unique installation of this type is safe and will be able to withstand extreme conditions such as strong winds and large snowfalls
Upgrading outdoor space into a usable, sheltered area provides a host of benefits for all kinds of applications It is crucial that site specific calculations are carried out and thoroughly checked to ensure the end installation is fit for purpose and meets all safety requirements.
The Grange is a fantastic free standing canopy that started off as one singular canopy and has since evolved into a range of its own with the original canopy, a junior version for smaller budgets and a double version.
Whilst the Grange junior and senior canopies are free standing structures, they have a mono pitch roof design which makes them ideal for installation close to buildings to create a wall mounted canopy appearance This is ideal for those that would like a canopy against a building but are unable to due to not having a suitable wall to fix to.
The Double Grange is effectively two grange seniors back to back, creating an apex roof design, the benefit of the double grange is that it can cover a whopping 12 metres in width and has an unlimited length, allowing you to cover extra-large areas It?s ideal for covering outdoor event areas, outdoor classrooms, outdoor dining areas and outdoor sports courts, transforming theses spaces into all weather outdoor outdoor spaces, meaning they can be used all year round without the risk of the weather cancelling plans
Free standing canopies can solve a multitude of problems that schools, hospitals, restaurants, retail outlets and leisure complexes meet They can enable them to maximise the use of their grounds including the outside which, without shelter, can only be used on pleasant days. A free standing canopy can enable a business to increase their turnover by creating more usable space without the expense of an extension or moving to a bigger building
Schools can reduce cramped classrooms by moving classes into the outdoors Hospitals can provide places where their patients, staff and visitors can gain some much needed fresh air and relax in a calming area all year round. Retail outlets can increase their revenue by adding more seats to their premises which in turn results in more profit The list goes on, building extensions are always an option but they are costly and can cause disruption and a canopy is much much less disruption, if any, is much more cost effective and enables people to enjoy facilities whilst also enjoying the outdoors
The Grange Junior Free Standing
The Grange Junior Free Standing Canopy is the most cost effective canopy out of the three. It features a robust steel frame with aluminium roof bars which are covered with a choice of 5mm solid, or 16mm structured polycarbonate roof panels which are vandal and shatter resistant. It can also be covered with coloured polycarbonate roof panels, choose just onc colour, or a selection of alternating colours The coloured polycarbonate is extremely popular within primary and early years setting and this is the only canopy within our range that is available with the coloured polycarbonate roof panels The canopy can cover up to 5 metres in width and has an unlimited length
Our customers love using the Grange Junior for outdoor covered walkways, outdoor play and learning within schools and even as cycle shelters
The Grange Senior Free Standing Canopy is where the range started, it is the first canopy from the family of Granges and is just as popular as when we launched it over 10 years ago. This strong steel canopy also features an aluminium roof frame, yet it is covered with much thicker 35mm structured polycarbonate roof panels which are available in clear and opal The canopy can cover up to 6 metres in width and has an unlimited length.
During all the years we have been supplying and installing the Grange Senior, our customers have been enjoying it in a much similar way to the Grange Junior such as to cover outdoor walkways, outdoor learning and play spaces within schools and outdoor
dining areas It is also used in commercial settings to store and prep deliveries ready for collection
The Double Grange Free Standing Canopy is the largest of the three canopies, it has a maximum width of up to 12 metres and has an unlimited length, meaning it can cover extra large areas, making it very popular for use as large outdoor learning and play areas and for extending dining rooms into the outdoors for all-year-round use
Just like the other two canopies in the range, it is constructed from a strong steel canopy frame with a fully aluminium roof frame. The roof is covered with 35mm structured polycarbonate that is also vandal and shatter resistant and is available in clear and opal
It?s been a whole year since we introduced our tree planting initiative, and we don? t regret a single second of it
Over the last 12 months, we have planted a total of 200 trees here in the UK and in Africa The trees we have planted via The Tree Appeal have provided homes and food for thousands of species of birds, mammals and insects Trees are the longest living organisms in the world and by planting them, we ensure the survival and maintenance of the eco system, which is required for not just animals and insects but for humans too.
Planting trees also helps us to off set our carbon emissions which is an important aspect as a business, and because we plant a tree for each school canopy ordered, we help you and your client to off set your carbon
Because planting trees is so important and has numerous benefits all round, we plan to plant even more over the next 12 months, we?re hoping to install over double the amount we installed during the first 12 months We are therefore also going to plant trees for every recommendation we receive; we?ll plant a tree for the school recommending us and the school that was recommended to us
While we don? t physically plant the trees here at Able Canopies, we sponsor 'The Tree Appeal' so that they can use the money to buy the trees and plant them. If you would like trees planted at your school (free of charge to yourself), please contact The Tree Appeal direct for more information
The image to the right shows our ?tree o meter?and the number of trees we have planted to date
I discussed with Joshua Foord, our Project Account Manager about the key areas to consider when in the early stage of supplying a canopy, shelter or shade system for the education sector, and provided useful guidance on installation
Canopies, shelters and shade systems continue to grow in popularity within the education sector, with contractors increasingly finding themselves working alongside canopy specialists, due to the products?wide range of uses; for instance, outdoor classrooms, parent waiting shelters, free flow play areas and playground shade Whereas one might think canopies are there to protect against inclement weather, UV protection is of equal importance ? school canopies can do so much more than protect from rain and snow.
At Able Canopies, we offer a range of wall mounted and free standing canopies and will work closely with a contractor to deliver a system that is the most appropriate for the job in hand.
For any project, there are four main questions to consider:
1 How is the canopy going to be used?
For example, if it is to provide shelter between two buildings, there are some specialist walkway systems that can offer a cost efficient solution However, if the project is ambitious and complex, for example, a large area is looking to be covered for outdoor dining, activities, outdoor learning, or school events, then the wider structure needs to be considered ? such as the number and position of the supporting posts required and how this could impact on the flow of pupils and teachers
2 Will the specified canopy fit into the available space?
It may seem like an obvious point, but it pays to get an expert opinion who will assess the space, think about the access points and also make recommendations for any extra materials that may be required to make the system blend in, or indeed stand out They will also consider areas such as the fixings, guttering and drainage A design can be expertly developed to incorporate elements that ensure the project meets customer needs and provides practical elements, such as drainage
3 What material is the most suitable?
There is a wide choice available.
Aluminium is used in most canopies for schools as the material offers a strong, yet light framework Steel is also popular, as it is strong and can be galvanised for ultimate corrosion protection Glulam timber is a sustainable choice that offers a contemporary feel, and an alternative look using a natural material It is perfect for large spaces
An array of roof panels are available, including polycarbonate, glass, and waterproof tensile fabric Polycarbonate is often the most popular choice for schools for a cost effective, safe, and high quality solution, while glass is specified for its professional aesthetic and acoustic protection
Solar panels are eco friendly and slow your client to meet CSR commitments ? waterproof tensile fabric is a durable roof covering which offers high UV protection.
4 How can I achieve a hassle free installation?
The key to any profitable canopy will be the installation The earlier the project needs can be discussed and surveyed, the smoother the installation will be For example, if bespoke fittings or fixings are required, the sooner these can be built into the specification, the better
It must also be accurate with safe working practices and cause minimum disruption (especially if this is taking place during school hours) It is crucial that a supplier is selected that will meet the specialist needs of the project Pre site visits are recommended, as they ensure that all aspects have been assessed and checked before the installation takes place In an education environment, it is also crucial that projects are finished on time to avoid more disruption than is needed
In summary, commercial canopies are proving to be a great way to enhance a school environment for a variety of reasons In order for a successful installation to take place, there are many aspects that should be examined in the design stages Any complications can also be avoided by early coordination with a canopy expert who is able to advise on the correct structure for the customers?requirements and help ensure a successful and effective process
The NBS BIM Library is expanding every day as more approved BIM Objects are added For architects, contractors and manufacturers there are many benefits in this new world of Building Information Modelling (BIM)
The three key opportunities are:
The NBS BIM Library allows architects to select products and effectively ?build the project, before they build the project? This saves time on product assessment and decision making, reduces costs by minimising errors and will increase efficiencies in the actual build phase
It allows that easier access to products and product information, and increased precision of selection (using the BIM Object Standard), leads to more productive collaboration between architects and suppliers. Being able to view product options and start a dialogue with the supplier or contractor about their use will help to raise the quality of the finished project Which in turn leads to more projects and recommendations in the future
There will no longer be the need for 2D drawings to be compared on site which can lead to costly mistakes and time consuming changes and resolutions BIM will enable the project to be seen in full and will allow early clash detection to take place That means solutions are found in a more efficient way, improving overall productivity. And improving the bottom line return of projects.
The potential of these benefits is significant and will change the industry The NBS BIM Library is an important step to show the advances and practical applications of BIM As a supplier, Able Canopies collaborate with architects and contractors and already have our own objects in the Library, with more to follow The ability to pick suitable products quickly and accurately is a major advantage for architects and contractors. Visit the library here:
https://www nationalbimlibrary com/en gb/able canopies ltd/
If you would like a copy of our full product catalogue then let us know on 0800 389 9072 or sales@ablecanopies co uk and we will get one out in the post to you It contains all you need to transform your outside space and keep those cycles secure As well as our canopy systems, the brochure contains information on all our accessories and upgrades ? such as side fills, heating and lighting and colour options.
You can also download your copy from www ablecanopies co uk/brochures html
Our dedicated specifiers site includes all the drawings, technical specifications and recent images that you could need to help your project These user friendly details allow you to quickly compare different systems, roofing options and materials, enabling efficient, informative specifications to be made Our whole product range is available allowing you to decide on the best solutions for walkways, dining areas, shelter, sun shade or all year round weather protection For your own personalised access, contact us using the details below
We are committed to the highest standards of customer service, which is independently audited wherever possible
External assessment of our quality through our achievement of ISO and Acclaim Accreditation requirements means that our service is delivered to a consistently high standard
We have achieved Constructionline Gold status ? meaning our approach to health & safety, environment & waste and equalities & diversity meet recognised standards
Each project will have a thorough site survey to ensure your requirements are fully understood and the installation can be completed with the minimum disruption
At all times our expert team is available to answer questions and help you with project timing and planning