Tension fabric structures are some of the most useful and affordable structures that can be used for both temporary and permanent situations. These structures are also called fabric buildings, cover-all buildings, Quonset huts, tarp building, and tent buildings.
What Tension Fabric Structures Are
These buildings are made of steel skeletons and covered with tension fabric, essentially. The frame is often in a curved shape which is why some people also call them bubble buildings. A clear span fabric structure is a light material building that has no support beams, thus a “clear span.”
They cost very little to build and operate and they offer quick installation on-the-spot. They are erected securely but can be relocated quickly whenever necessary. These buildings are made by specialty companies that have a primary focus on the engineering, design, and installation of these structures.
What Tension Fabric Buildings Can Be Used For
The uses are practically endless. They can be used for functional or recreational purposes. They are often used in the gas and oil industries to provide a good shelter for the processing and handling of such resources. They can be installed wherever a job site is which makes them superb for the ever-changing gas and oil industries.
These buildings are used for municipalities that want to store salt or sand. They make ideal recycling centers and they can be the perfect storage facilities for industrial tools.
They can be used for agricultural work or equestrian practices and shows. They make great entertainment and sporting event facilities as well as Farmer’s Markets and much more.
When you decide to get a tension fabric structure for your needs, the first step is getting it designed by a building engineer. If you already have plans designed that meet all relevant building codes in your area, you can submit those designs to the manufacturer and your building will be custom made for you.
When you require a design, the engineers will use software to design the building as per your instructions. They will be stamped by an engineered that is licensed in your area. They also will be up to all codes.
Once the designs are complete, the building will be custom made for you. This process starts using fabric panels, many of which are created in the manufacturer’s facility. They will cut it as needed to allow for the proper tension once it is installed. The correct tension eliminates friction and allows the building to withstand various winds and even snow.
The fabric gets treated to make it waterproof. Once it has been cut the frame that supports the building is made. It is made from hot-dipped, galvanized steel, powder-coated steel or regular galvanized steel. Your fabric gets rolled so that it can be transported to the building site.
Your building will be constructed on site with all doors, lighting, and ventilation put into place. The building will be able to withstand various hanging loads and will have a fire suppression system. Many buildings come with fabric liners to protect the top layer from being affected in corrosive environments. Many also come with a generous warranty.
