Shade structures are an excellent way to enhance your property’s outlook. It’s important to practice routine maintenance on your shade structure after its installation. Regular check-ins, thorough cleaning and other essential strategies can extend the structure’s longevity. Regular maintenance also keeps your structure in its best condition long after your initial purchase. Here are some maintenance tips for your car parking shade structures:
- Check Condition
It’s important that every part of your shade structure is in good enough condition to do its job properly. Here are a few parts you should check regularly:
-Fabric Tension: Check the tension on the cable every 12 months. Check for any rust on the cable and cable clamps. Cable needs to be replace every second year. Cable tension MUST be correct – check the tension by pushing the center on the cloth not more that 3” inward.
-Fabric: Check for stains, patches, and other weaknesses like holes or tears. Spotting these early can prevent further damage to the shade sail.
-Post Footers / Foundations : Make sure these are planted firmly and show no signs of leaning. Leaning posts means that the foundation is not sturdy and if it’s left unchecked, the structure could collapse.
- Regular Cleaning
Periodically clear any leaves, branches, and other debris from the shade’s surface and frame to prevent damage and maintain its appearance. As for fabric shades, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the material. Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub away dirt. After cleaning, rinse the fabric thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue. You should allow it to dry completely before retracting or storing it.
- Inspection for damage
Another maintenance tips for your car parking shade structures is to regularly inspect the shade material for any signs of wear, tears, or holes and repair any damage to prevent it from worsening. You should also inspect the structural frame or supports for signs of rust, corrosion, or damage and address any issues promptly to avoid compromising the stability of the structure.
- UV protection
One of the primary purposes of car parking shades is to protect vehicles from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Over time, the shade fabric may begin to degrade due to UV exposure. Applying UV protectant treatments to the fabric can extend its lifespan and enhance its UV-blocking capabilities. Consult with the shade manufacturer or a professional for recommended products and application procedures.
- Fabric Care
For fabric car parking shades, such as those made from canvas or polyester, UV exposure and extreme temperatures can cause fading, cracking, and wear over time. To prolong the life of your fabric shade, consider investing in a UV-resistant or sun-resistant fabric option. Additionally, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the fabric. Gently brush away any debris, and spot-clean with a mild detergent when necessary.
- Maintain Proper Drainage
Make sure that water can drain away properly from the shade structure. Clogged or obstructed drainage can lead to water pooling, which can cause damage over time.
- Professional maintenance
While routine cleaning and inspections can be performed by facility staff, it is advisable to schedule periodic professional maintenance. Experts can assess the structure comprehensively, identify any structural weaknesses, and provide the necessary repairs or replacements. They can also conduct tensioning checks to ensure that the shade fabric remains securely in place. Contact us today for professional maintenance and car parking shades installation services.
These are some but a few maintenance tips for your car parking shade structures and by following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your car parking shade structures remain functional, visually appealing, and durable for years to come.