BUILDING DESIGN, IDEAS & SOLUTIONS FOR YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS
Welcome to the summer 2024 edition of Outside Comfort Zone In this edition, we explore how our range of entrance canopies can enhance all commercial sectors You'll also discover how we provided a comprehensive canopy solution at White Bridge Primary School, and dive into a detailed case study of the new entrance canopy installation at Hartshill Medical Centre. Plus, there's much more.
We?re Now Certified to CHAS Advanced!
Achieving certifications is something that we at Able Canopies are very proud of as it demonstrates that we are a professional company that adheres to all health and safety regulations and all staff are fully trained to a high standard
We?re therefore extremely pleased to announce that we have secured yet another major accreditation which is CHAS Advanced
If you?re not already aware, CHAS is the UK?s leading provider of risk prevention, compliance and supply chain management services for clients and contractors Their mission is to help bring workers home safe with their compliance and risk management accreditation services and supply chain management solutions
CHAS Advanced, helps us to achieve SSIP, demonstrates compliance and improves our visibility with CHAS clients looking for suitably compliant contractors such as yourselves.
Alongside CHAS Advanced, some of the other major certifications we hold are ISO 9001, ISO14001, ISO 45001, Acclaim Accreditation, Constructionline Gold, SafeContractor and UKCA CE Marking
So, if you?re looking to add a commercial canopy,cycle shelter or shade sail to your latest project, call us on 0800 389 9072, email sales@ablecanopies co uk or visit our website www ablecanopies co uk
Above: The Welford Dome Freestanding Canopy installed at St Peter?s Academy in Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire
Innovative Cycle Shelter Ideas for Commercial Sectors
In today?s eco-conscious world, promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation is crucial One effective way to support this initiative is by specifying cycle shelters within your projects.
Cycle shelters not only provide a safe and secure place for bicycles but also encourage more people to cycle, contributing to healthier lifestyles and a greener environment
This article will explore various cycle shelter ideas suitable for all commercial sectors, including schools, and delve into the different framework materials, designs, roof coverings, placement options, and frame colour choices
Cycle Shelter Framework Materials
The choice of framework material is pivotal in determining the durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements of cycle shelters. Here are some popular options: Steel
Durability: Highly durable and resistant to harsh weather conditions.
Maintenance: Requires periodic maintenance.
Aesthetics: Offers a modern, sleek look suitable for urban environments. Aluminium
Durability: Corrosion-resistant and lightweight.
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Maintenance: Low maintenance due to its resistance to rust.
Aesthetics: Provides a contemporary appearance, ideal for modern buildings. Timber
Durability: Sturdy and robust.
Maintenance: Requires periodic treatment to resist weathering.
Aesthetics: Offers a natural, rustic look, perfect for parks and green spaces.
Design and Shape
Cycle shelters come in various designs and shapes to cater to different needs and preferences
Cantilever Shelters
Design: Single-sided with a sloping roof, providing easy access and efficient use of space
Ideal For: Areas with limited space, such as narrow pathways or alongside buildings
Freestanding Shelters
Design: Stand-alone structures that can house multiple bicycles
Ideal For: Large open spaces like school grounds or business premises
Enclosed Shelters and Cycle Compounds
Design: Fully enclosed with sides and doors, offering maximum protection
Ideal For: High-security areas or locations prone to harsh weather conditions
Roof Covering
The choice of roof covering significantly impacts the functionality and appearance of the cycle shelter.
Polycarbonate Panels
Features: Lightweight, impact-resistant, and offers UV protection.
Benefits: Provides clear or tinted options, allowing natural light while protecting bicycles from elements
Ideal For: Schools and businesses that prioritise visibility and aesthetic appeal.
Corrugated Steel Panels
Features: Extremely durable, weather-resistant, and offers robust protection
Ideal For: Industrial areas or locations requiring maximum protection
Placement Options:
Proper placement of cycle shelters enhances their utility and accessibility
Near Entrances
Benefits: Ensures convenience for users, encouraging more people to cycle
Ideal For: Schools, hospitals, and retail settings
Alongside Buildings
Benefits: Utilises existing structures for additional protection and support
Ideal For: Universities, office complexes, and residential areas
Open Spaces
Benefits: Offers ample space for larger shelters, accommodating more bicycles
Ideal For: Parks, holiday parks, and recreational areas.
Frame Colour Options
The colour of the shelter?s frame can significantly influence its integration with the surroundings and overall aesthetic:
Neutral Colours (e.g., grey, black, white)
Benefits: Blends seamlessly with most environments, offering a clean and professional look
Ideal For: Corporate settings, schools, and public spaces
Bright Colours (e.g., red, blue, green)
Benefits: Adds a vibrant touch, enhancing visibility and appeal
Ideal For: Schools, parks, and areas aiming to promote a lively atmosphere
Conclusion
Including well-designed cycle shelters in your proejcts is a strategic move to help any commercial sector aiming to promote sustainable transport and provide practical benefits for cyclists By carefully selecting the appropriate framework material, design, roof covering, placement, and frame colour, businesses and institutions can ensure their cycle shelters are both functional and aesthetically pleasing
Contact us today to learn more about our range of cycle shelter solutions and how we can assist you in creating a cyclist-friendly environment www ablecanopies co uk
AMP Clean Energy Ltd. Case Study
Customer: AMP Clean Energy Ltd
End User: Commercial Site in Colchester
Product: Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy with a Goalpost Frame, on Brackets
Frame Colour: Hipca White
Size: 5m x 4.975m
Installation Date: March 2024
The Brief
AMP Clean Energy supply batteries and storage for their clients, among other services and in January 2024, AMP?s Head of Delivery reached out to Able Canopies as they were looking to add a shelter within their battery site in Colchester, Essex
They were specifically looking for a commercial canopy that could be installed into their existing concrete base, that was freestanding and could be left in strong winds. They also required the canopy to be dismantled and used elsewhere as it was only required for 6 months in its current position
The Solution
They had seen the canopy we installed at Air Products plc and wanted something similar, that matched the above specification with a quick turnaround Our canopy with the quickest turn around is the Coniston which can be supplied as both a wall mounted canopy and a freestanding canopy.
As mentioned above, they originally wanted a freestanding canopy,we can provide this with the Coniston by using a ?goalpost?frame this will also give them the minimum heights at the front and rear of the canopy Using brackets, we also secured the canopy onto the existing concrete wall for additional support and rigidity.
The Installation
The existing concrete wall that we planned to install the canopy against was only 2.7m high which would leave a 400mm gap between the height of the canopy and the top of the wall, we therefore used a PVC flat board to bridge the gap Whilst this could not guarantee a watertight seal, it would dramatically reduce driving rain coming in from the back of the canopy
AMP Clean Energy required a quick turnaround, and, on this occasion, we were able to achieve exactly that. From the time of the initial enquiry to the time we completed the installation, the entire job was completed within 7 weeks
After discussing the differences between Welford Dome Freestanding Canopy (to match the canopy installed at Air Products Plc) and the Coniston, AMP Clean Energy opted for the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy.
Whilst the Coniston is a permanent structure that has been engineered to withstand all that the UK weather has to offer, we can also dismantle the canopy and install elsewhere if required This made it the perfect solution for AMP Clean Energy.
After Sales
In July 2024, we returned to site to temporarily remove the roof so that the staff at AMP Clean Energy could remove the batteries As mentioned, they wanted a canopy that could be taken down and whilst the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy is a permanent structure, we can take them down if required, or in this case, remove the roof then add it back when required
Here?s what AMP Energy Clean Energy had to say about Able Canopies:
?Excellent Job!?
Service: ?Excellent?
Installation: ?Excellent?
Product: ?Excellent?
Would you recommend us? ?Yes?
If you require a commercial canopy for your project, contact us today to discover the perfect solution.
Call us on 0800 389 9072
Email us at sales@ablecanopies.co.uk
Or visit our website www.ablecanopies.co.uk
Employee Spotlight: Steve Collier
This month I sat down with Steve, our Warehouse Manager who has been with us many years and knows the company inside and out. Here?s what he had to say about his time here so far at Able Canopies
?I first started my career at Able Canopies nearly 16 years ago as their Warehouse Manager and although my job title hasn? t changed over the years, my job role has; I have evolved with the company, learning new skills and completing courses to complement the company?s growth.
My current job role involves running the warehouse and ensuring all jobs are cut, safely packaged and ready to load onto the vans for delivery on site I also take care of stock management, making sure we have ample canopy extrusions, parts and accessories for the month ahead and using a forklift, I unload deliveries from our suppliers
My main motivation at work are my goals, each job must be ready to load onto the vehicles on specific date, to ensure they arrive on site promptly Ready to be installed by our fitting teams I like to make sure they are ready well in advance, to ensure each jobs runs smoothly. And I guess that?s my favourite part of my job; seeing the components on the back of the truck, knowing they?re ready to be transformed into a shade and shelter structures that someone is looking forward to.
Running the warehouse and ensuring all jobs are sent out on time and correctly is probably what I am most proud of within my role, and what I strive to achieve every day
What I enjoy most about working at Able Canopies, is that we are like one big family, and we are trusted to achieve our daily tasks without being observed and scrutinised; trust goes a long way, and in-turn earns respect
When it comes to my personal life, my main motivation are my daughters, and if you were to ask them what my secret talent is, they might not tell you, that it is singing along to the radio at work, which my colleagues are very familiar with!
However, something my colleagues don? t know about me is that when I was younger, I was a Cub Scout, and we held a show at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester called The Gang Show I was also born in Malaysia and am a big dog lover ? but everyone knows that!?
Entrance Canopies for All Commercial Sectors
Our entrance canopies are commercial grade structures that are perfect for creating dry and covered entrances on UK commercial buildings
Each structure is constructed from robust frames such as steel and aluminium, and are covered with the highest quality polycarbonate or toughened glass panels for longevity and an appearance that keeps them looking newer for longer.
Unlike other inferior panels, our polycarbonate canopy roof panels do not yellow over time from exposure to the sun due to the layer of UV protection that is extruded onto the panels during the manufacturing process
You will not find a better quality or more aesthetically pleasing canopy for your entrance than those in product range of entrance canopies
Read on to find out how our entrance canopies can benefit your sector
Entrance Canopies for Schools
Entrance canopies can be so beneficial in schools for a number of reasons They are fantastic for guiding visitors and pupils to the correct entrances which avoids visitors accidentally wandering around areas of the school they shouldn? t be.
They can also reduce the risk of slips inside your entrance due to less rainfall driving into the building. As well as providing shelter from the rain, they can also make the inside of our building cooler by sheltering your entrance from the sun, making the building inside much more comfortable for your staff
Entrance Canopies for Hospitals
Hospital entrance canopies are extremely popular as they provide a dry,sheltered area for visitors, patients and staff to wait under when visiting your hospital or medical centre. They are also widespread within doctor?s surgeries as patients often queue outside and it keeps them dry and comfortable, making their experience much more pleasant
Entrance Canopies for Care Homes
Adding an entrance canopy to your care home is a great way to add branding to your building whilst also creating a dry entrance because many of our entrance canopies are available with signage which can include your care home name as well as your logo.
You can also add side panels to your canopy which adds even more protection from the weather, almost creating an outdoor room, with one side open at the entrance.
Entrance Canopies for Restaurants
Restaurant entrance canopies can really make your entrance stand out and if you opt for a large entrance canopy, it can also be used as a covered outdoor dining area, maximising the number of patrons you can serve, even in poor weather conditions.
Entrance Canopies for Hotels
Hotel entrance canopies are perfect for making your entrance stand out and with the addition of signage; you can add your company?s branding or text of your choice, making a real feature of your entrance canopy. If you?re looking to add a commercial entrance canopy to your latest project, call us on 0800 389 9072, email us at sales@ablecanopies co uk or visit our website www ablecanopies co uk
Hartshill Medical Centre, Entrance Canopy Case Study
Hartshill Medical Centre in Nuneaton, Warwickshire is a £3m state of the art practice that was opened in early 2023, replacing the much smaller, nearby Chancery Lane Surgery
We were approached during the early stages to tender for an entrance canopy which would provide shade and shelter above the main entrance
The Solution
Hayward Architects who were designing the project, asked us to submit a quote for a Kensington Mono-Pitch Freestanding Canopy in an L-shape, so it could follow the outline of the entrance
We provided them with a price as requested, and also alternative costs for two more cost-effective canopies for comparison and choice The alternative canopies we quoted for was the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy and the Kensington Junior Wall Mounted Entrance Canopy.
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toughened glass panels which adds to the aesthetics, or 5mm solid, clear polycarbonate which mimics the glass appearance.
The order was placed in February 2023 for a 3 1 metre x 1 5 metre canopy with a hip, enabling it to follow the external corner of the entrance, into a 1 41 metre x 1 5 metre canopy
Installation
Just one month after receiving the order, we installed the door canopy within four days as scheduled It was powder coated in RAL 9004, Signal Black with a matt finish to coordinate with the building?s windows
The end result looks fantastic and really sets of the main entrance of the brand-new medical centre which will serve patients for many years to come
As a result of conversations with Enrock Construction Ltd and Hayward Architects, they opted for the Kensington Mono-Pitch Freestanding Canopy which they preferred from the initial enquiry This was because they really wanted a canopy with supporting rear posts for ease of install and to reduce strain on the building
The Kensington Junior doesn? t have supporting posts and the Coniston has a difference appearance to what they first had in mind including front posts, making both unsuitable for the design
The Kensington Mono-Pitch Freestanding Canopy was therefore the perfect solution; it is very popular within commercial settings including hospitals, medical centres and hospitality venues and has a stylish, high-class appearance with a robust construction to compliment the design It can be covered with
We Bridge the Gap with the Whole Canopy Package
White Bridge Primary School is set in large, beautiful grounds within Loughton in Essex and are part of the Epping Forest Schools Partnership. They provide a safe, inclusive and challenging learning journey in a fun environment where there is pride in achievement, and teamwork that builds respect and trust.
They reached out to us as they were considering installing a canopy in one of their external play areas that would cover the external door and along the side of the classroom. The canopy would provide cover to the new nursery area which they were hoping to create within the school
We could immediately see that our Coniston Canopy would be the perfect shade and shelter structure to provide the cover required as it ticked all the boxes After discussions to find out more about the area and the suitability of a wall mounted canopy, we sent an estimate over to the school for a Coniston Freestanding Canopy.
Canopy, fencing, ground works, tarmac and artificial grass The school were pleased with this as it saved them a lot of work and would make the project run much more smoothly, and therefore placed the order.
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Once the school had received their grant which was to fund the canopy,they contacted us to request a firm quotation before going ahead with the project We therefore arranged a free site survey with our local Project Account Manager During that meeting it was discussed that the school also required other works to complement the canopy, including fencing and groundworks such as tarmacking and artificial grass. This is something that we are able to offer as part of a whole canopy package to simplify your projects We can take care of these works, so you only have one contractor on site with less admin for you to carry out
We sent a firm quotation for a Coniston Freestanding
We installed the canopy over two days on 19th & 20th June 2024 and completed the groundworks during the following three days The school were pleased with the quotation, it suited their requirements, was within budget and gave them piece of mind that the whole project was being run by one company. Allowing them to get on with their busy school day knowing the works were in very capable hands.
White Bridge Primary School's installation and groundworks images:
If you are about to embark on a project within your school or commercial setting and require a stand-alone canopy, or a canopy with groundworks and fencing, get in touch with us to find out how we can help make your project a smooth, pleasurable process Call us on 0800 389 9072, email sales@ablecanopies co uk or visit our website www ablecanopies co uk
White Bridge Primary School's Artificial Grass
White Bridge Primary School's Timber Picket Fence
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White Bridge Primary School's Tarmac Pathway
Our Product Brochure
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/brochure-download/
Essential Information for Architects & Specifiers
Our website 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 Visit our website and navigate to your chosen product page www ablecanopies co uk
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Committed to Service Quality
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 certification 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
Call: 0800 389 9072 | Email: sales@ablecanopies co uk
Follow us on our social sites to view new product info and recent installation photos for inspiration: Twitter: @ablecanopies Facebook: @AbleCanopies
