ShareCHOOSING THE RIGHT SHADE STRUCTURE FOR YOUR BUSINESS (PART 2)
(Part 1 – Please click here)
Where Complementary Shades Work Best
Shade structures designed for form and function provide a distinctive way to make spaces stand out from an architectural standpoint anywhere people gather to shop, dine or sightsee. Consider complementary shade structures in spaces that need to be an extension of the architecture or space. At venues where people spend long periods of time waiting outside, it is important to think of the visitors’ comfort and the capacity to shade everyone within the space.
- Shopping malls — The entrances of malls can be extended to enhance the building’s shape, color and design scheme with a shade structure. For example, an addition of a bold-colored shade structure can be the perfect way to modernize the building’s facade. If the retai or shopping center is set in a promenade with lots of planted trees, a simple shade that mimics the landscape might be a suitable, understated enhancement to the building.
- Amusement and Attractions— At science museums, aquatic parks and other family-themed amusement centers, shade structures can be used to complement the venue’s facade and surrounding attractions. More subdued colors can help balance out boldly colored amusement park rides. Shade also protects visitors by covering outdoor attractions and dining areas. These shade structures can also be nice additions to the entrance where visitors wait to enter the venue.
Shade Structure Size and Coverage
Paying attention to how your visitors behave in various outdoor areas can help you determine your custom shade needs. For instance, knowing where people avoid standing or bringing their children because of high temperatures can indicate a prime location for a shade structure. Covering areas where large items such as golf carts, farm equipment and other vehicles are stored outside should also be considered for protection against sun exposure. When choosing a shade structure for a restaurant exterior, the size of the shade depends on whether you offer outdoor seating or need a covered walkway for visitors. The following examples demonstrate size–appropriateness in regard to shade structures.
- Crowded entryways— In locations where crowds gather to attend movies, concerts or sporting events, ample shade should be provided at the front entrance and above the sidewalk where the line extends. The shade should be at an optimal entry height to stand under, allowing comfortable coverage for visitors waiting in line.
- Sunny areas — Where the sunlight shines directly on the venue or attraction, shade structures should be large enough to accommodate the largest number of people who might seek shelter on a sunny day. At public swimming pools, for instance, your shade structure may need to be relatively close to the pool itself, so the concrete around the swimming pool will absorb less heat. Direct sunlight around a pool can be dangerous for guests, as unshaded areas increase the risk of sunburn and stepping on burning hot concrete.
- Car dealerships — To keep new and used cars protected from hail and sunlight, car dealerships can benefit from shade structures large enough to cover every vehicle on the lot. When picking a shade structure for a car dealership, consider the height and shape of the structure. A structure with an arched top will be better equipped to handle hail while increasing air flow, protect vehicles and keep customers and employees comfortable in warmer temperatures.
Weather and Materials for Shade Structures
When choosing the right shade structure for a business, consider the weather patterns in the area. Do you live in a climate that’s reasonable during most months? Are temperatures generally muggy and humid or rainy and cold? Or a seasonal trade-off of both extremes?
- Sunny and hot climates — Where the sun shines bright and hot from early spring to the middle of fall (such as desert areas or beachfront properties), a shade material with a sufficient ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) should be chosen to help protect against UV rays. In addition to providing protection from these damaging rays, the right shade structure can increase airflow to make the environment more comfortable in these areas, providing a welcome respite from the sun on hot days while making outdoor and work experiences better.
Whether you’re looking for shade structures for schools, playgrounds, shopping centers, parking lots, outdoor athletic facilities, or nearly any other venue, our team of shade experts can recommend many different types of standard or custom shade structure styles that will help protect and enhance your business for years to come. Contact CERIA SHADE to learn more about our shade solutions and get a quote today.
