Tensile membranes structures are typically used as open-air structures to provide shade in a flexible and aesthetically pleasing manner. It is also a cost effective solution for shading, and the ideal solution for spaces that require non-conventional design.
As tensile materials are flexible, they can be shaped into any shape and size to suit the unique requirements of each building easily. The option to make the material opaque or different rage or translucency also allows one to control the amount of light entering the space.
Areas Of Applications:
The lightweight nature of tensile materials means that smaller and lighter supporting structures are required. This also creates opportunity for lights and fans, making tensile membrane structures suitable for playgrounds, car park shelters, link-ways, entrance to buildings, creative shelters for outdoor dining destinations, and activity halls.
The two most popular types of membranes used for such purposes are PTFE Membrane and PVC Membrane.
PTFE Membrane:
PTFE, also known as polytetrafluoroethylene, is a Teflon®-coated fiberglass membrane that is designed to perform well even in the most extreme of weather conditions. An additional benefit of using PTFE Membrane material is low maintenance. As the material is created to be smooth, it is hard for dirt and debris to stay trapped, and most of the time, all it takes is a downpour to wash everything away.
Unique Benefits:
- Resistant to long term exposure to UV radiation and weathering conditions
- Suitable for permanent structures
- High reflectance and up to 20% light transmission
- Fire resistant and self cleaning
- Life expectancy of over 20 years
PVC Membrane:
PVC, also known as polyvinyl chloride, has been a popular outdoor shade fabric choice for many years. Available in woven and non-woven materials, PVC membrane is a highly cost-effective option that offers building owners a while variety of colours.
One unique value of PVC Membrane is that they can be heated to a semi-solid state, and have fungicides and UV light protectors embedded. This increases the longevity of the material.
Unique Benefits:
- Easy to clean surface
- Comes in various colours and printable surface
- Light transmission up to 40%
- Life expectancy of around 10 years in tropical weather