Tensile structures can help transform and add functionality to any space. The long lifespan of tensile strictures also increases their appeal for a variety of projects. As with any structure, maintenance plays a key part in the longevity of a tensile structure.

While tensile solutions can offer an ideal option for those looking to erect an impressive-looking and long-lasting structure, depending on where they are situated, contextual factors can increase their susceptibility to faults. Luckily, there are procedures that can be followed to effectively maintain these structures.

In this blog from ARC Structures, we offer a guide to maintaining tensile structures, noting common fault points to look out for. For more guidance relating to tensile structures and their uses, take a look at our blog. Articles include Top 5 Uses for Outdoor Pods, The Ultimate Guide to Fabric Façades and The Importance of Covered Canopies and Walkways.

 

What are Tensile Structures?

Tensile structures are made up of tensioned fabrics that are shaped by steel or wire frames. Tensile structures can take on a variety of shapes suitable for use in a range of contexts. In order to form the desired design, fabric is pulled over a designated frame and tightened using anchor points. Often, tensile structures are supported by some form of compression or bending elements, such as masts, compression rings or beams.

 

What are Common Fault Points for Tensile Structures?

 As with any structure, tensile structures are susceptible to damage and wear over time. This wear and tear can be caused by a variety of things, including:

 

Wind

Providing a canopy is properly engineered, wind shouldn’t pose too much of a fault risk. However, in contexts where extreme weather is common, annual checks may be recommended to assess any changes in shape or stability.

 

Sun

While the sun can have a damaging effect on many materials, the PVC fabrics frequently used for tensile structures contain UV stabilisers which help protect colour and slow the rate of degradation. However, similarly to wind, a structure located in an area with consistently high UV is likely to see changes in quality more quickly – this should be factored into maintenance plans.

Fire

 All membranes de-tension when exposed to extremely high temperatures – such as those present during a fire. As temperatures increase, different elements of a tensile structure may fail. However, many materials contain fire retardants in their coating that can slow down the speed of fire damage.

 

Condensation

 When used to cover a sealed, heated space, it is likely that a tensile structure will encounter condensation. Luckily, deliberate design features such as edge detailing can reduce the likelihood of problems. Ventilation methods can also be added through more advanced design – although these are often regarded as a higher-cost option.

 

Vandalism

The features of tensile structures help limit the impact of vandalism. While susceptible to damage from sharp objects, blunt objects will cause less damage to tensile structures than other alternatives. In the event of a cut being made in the fabric, smaller areas can be repaired with glue on patches. However, larger tears may require specialist repair using hot air welders.

 

 

How to Maintain Tensile Structures

A Multi-stage Process

 When it comes to maintaining a tensile structure, there are numerous elements to be considered. As noted above, some specific challenges lend themselves to specialist or tailored maintenance – however, as standard, generalised maintenance should also be prioritised to reduce your structure’s susceptibility to damage in the first place.

 

Inspection  

The first key element of any tensile structure maintenance plan is inspection. Many experts, such as those at ARC Structures recommend that fabric structures receive a visual safety inspection on an annual basis. A typical inspection service might include:

• Visual inspection of the fabric membrane, including topside and underside where possible.
• Checks of support components to ensure they are securely fixed and undamaged.
• Checks of components such as boundary cables, tie-back cables and tie rods.
• Repairs of minor holes or tears.
• Provision of a detailed written report which will summarise findings and make any recommendations for necessary repairs.

Cleaning  

Tensile structures also require routine cleaning. How often a structure should be cleaned depends on surrounding conditions. For example, structures in dusty areas with high levels of atmospheric pollution will require more frequent cleaning than those located in low-pollution rural areas.

It is also notable that areas with high rainfall lend themselves to greater levels of self-cleaning. It is also advisable to adapt cleaning schedules in more debris-prone seasons such as autumn. This may also apply should construction work begin in the area surrounding your structure.

Repair

 If an inspection reveals that a structure requires repairs, it is important that these are dealt with promptly so as to maintain the integrity of the structure. Here at ARC Structures, any repairs detected within an inspection are quoted separately in accordance to their size and severity.

 

Maintaining your Tensile Structure with ARC Structures

Here at ARC Structures, we specialise in creating innovative, visually interesting tensile fabric structures and canopies. Built to your specifications, in line with your brief and your budget. Our services take your project from start to finish including design, manufacturing, installation, project management and maintenance. Our maintenance services include inspection, cleaning and repairs – not to mention that upon final delivery, each client is provided with a manual outlining advised maintenance. We are also on hand to help extend the lifespan of your structure with bespoke maintenance solutions. To speak to one of our team about our range of products and tensile structures, get in touch today.