Friday, May 28, 2010

Benefits of Canopy Carports

Your car could cost you anywhere between $15,000 and $50,000. Leaving such an investment open to the wrath of the elements is a shameful waste of spending money. Unfortunately, for many people, putting up a garage is not feasible. Canopy carports arethe best option for people who want a simple yet portable car canopy. In fact, these simple structures are increasingly becoming a practical and popular solution for those who want to protect their vehicles.

There are several benefits of canopy carports:
  • They are inexpensive when compared to permanent closed enclosures
  • They are portable
  • They are temporary
  • They offer a practical yet highly flexible solution for covered car parking
  • They may double up as shelters for humans as well
Canopy carports come in a variety of styles these days. Gone are the days when you had to tie a boring tent to steel poles with ropes. Now, you can have tents of just about any shape and color as you wish.

Typically, there are two types of canopy carports: Rounded and Box Eave. In the former, the corners are rounded and they point down. The other style is sharp and looks like a typical home design. Therefore, these are more angular. Flat roof models are also available. But slopes in the roof help water and snow to fall off. Also, it is believed that the slope is a stronger construction than a flat roof. You might want to keep these design elements in mind before you choose canopy carports for your use.

There are different kinds of canopy carports. They could be made from vinyl, wood or metal. Wooden carports are heavy and difficult to assemble. Commercial grade carports are made from metals. Metals commonly used are steel and aluminum. In fact, at one time, steel carports were the best in the market. However, aluminum has taken the market by storm as these are lightweight, rust resistant and durable. Different sizes of carports are available in the market. Carport kits contain all the materials you need to set up a carport. So, they are self-contained units that do not require too much time to assemble.

For those on the move, portable carports are the best option. But carports can do more than hold a car. Portable canopy carports may also be used to get together with people for events outside the house. Business events like a flea market may be held under these carports.

Important things to consider when buying canopy carports:
  • What is the material used to make the carport?
  • What is the warranty on the carport?
  • What about installation?
  • Any financing options?
  • What is the refund policy on the carport?
  • What is the delivery policy?
Before you buy a carport for your needs, make sure that it accommodates all your needs. These versatile structures are long term purchases. Therefore, the purchase must be made with due consideration.

A Guide to Commercial Canopies

When you decide to hold an event out of doors, it is only natural that you want to provide protection and comfort to the people in the gathering. Errant weather, the unrelenting heat of the sun and winds could play havoc with your plans of a great event if you do not provide sufficient cover. That is why the first consideration during such events is the canopy.

For large scale gatherings, commercial canopies are best suited. Generally, commercial canopies are meant to be temporary structures that provide shelter to a large number of people for a limited amount of time. That being the case, commercial canopies must have a host of helpful features. They must be:
  • Easy to set up
  • Easy to pack and carry
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Maintenance free
  • Roomy and spacious
There are different types of commercial canopies, including:
  • Aluminum canopies
  • Steel canopies
  • Retractable canopies
  • Cloth canopies
  • All weather canopies
The type of canopy you choose depends on what you want to use it for. For example, if you need a cover for the front of your café, you might be better off using a retractable canopy. These canopies are supported by the structure that they are attached to. The canopies have springs that keep the fabric taut. The canopy is motorized and you can roll out the covering with the flick of a switch. However, these are permanent structures.

Commercial canopies in general are not retractable. They consist of lightweight, durable materials like anodized aluminum and steel poles. These materials help prevent damage in case of strong winds, rain or continuous sunshine. Commercial canopies are available in different shapes, colors and designs. Thus, businesses can now make their canopies look architecturally elegant and build their brand identity based on these canopies. Innovative technologies help to brand the awning with logos or company colors.

Commercial dome canopies are shaped like a half dome. They are pleasing to look at and ideal for purposes that need less shade than otherwise. Drive-under canopies are an example of one of the best uses that dome canopies can be put to.

Star designed canopies are the latest rage in commercial canopies. These canopies look like a double star. Therefore, they are architecturally very pleasing. Due to the very nature of their design, they can easily accommodate a large number of people. These canopies are therefore best suited for events that attract a large group of people.

Commercial canopies are priced according to their size, material and brand. Before you buy a canopy, pay attention to the features mentioned above. If you are inexperienced and do not know much about canopies, research the different types of canopies. Equip yourself with sufficient knowledge about textures, shapes, sizes and make before you buy. This will help you buy the best commercial canopies for your needs.