Glossary of awning terms

April 1, 2006  |  Structure Basics

Definitions Awning: An architectural fabric projection that provides weather protection, identity or decoration and is wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is comprised of a lightweight frame structure over which a cover is attached. Canopy: An architectural projection…
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Thermal regulations in the UK

January 1, 2006  |  Structure Basics

By Tanya Ross Introduction Legislation to promote energy saving measures in new buildings has been tightened a number of times over the past 20 years, since the recognition that buildings contribute almost half the annual carbon dioxide emissions in the UK. The most recent revisions proposed to the …
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Standardized definitions for tents and fabric structures

May 1, 2005  |  Structure Basics

Standardized definitions help code officials understand just exactly what tents and fabric structures are and how they differ from rigid structures. For over a year now, the Building Code Committee of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) has been discussing definitions for terms t…
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Awning and canopy design glossary

April 1, 2002  |  Structure Basics

Awning fabric attachment methods Lacing: The most traditional technique. Grommets are placed along the edge of the fabric cover, which then is tied to the frame by lacing thin rope through the grommets. Besides providing a traditional look, lacing allows the cover to be tightened easily if the fabri…
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Awning and canopy design basics

April 1, 2002  |  Structure Basics

Distinguishing between an “awning” and a “canopy” is easy—though agreeing upon the distinguishing characteristic(s) is not. There is no definitive rule. Clients, fabricators, designers and architects may see the same form but disagree on the name. One common approach de…
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What not to do

January 1, 1970  |  Structure Basics

When installing fabric structures, it’s important to consider the conditions. By Bruce N. Wright, AIA There are some basic no-nos when it comes to installing a fabric structure, and temperature and weather conditions are right up there at the top. “Don’t install fabrics in high win…
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