Gazebo FAQ
At Protech Shelters we appreciate how difficult it can be to choose a Pop up Canopy. There are many on the market and quality and price varies tremendously. Our 2009 range has been selected to provide excellent performance and value for money. Selection between Eco, S and our XP range depends on your intended usage.
To guide you through some of the common features of Pop up Gazebos we have compiled this Frequently Asked Questions guide. We are of course, always happy to provide further information, just give us a call.
|
Assembly time
All the pop up gazebos we offer are designed for simple deployment in as little as 60 Seconds. They can be stored with the canopy attached so that when the pre-assembled frame is expanded to position, the shelter is instant. Weights or stakes are then added to secure the gazebo to the ground, before finally fitting sidewalls and accessories. The whole process takes just minutes and is far more effective than conventional slot-together marquees or market stalls.
Gazebo Handling
Most 3x3m or smaller gazebos can be managed by one person (once familiar with the safe and correct operation procedures). However, as a best practice we recommend at least two people are involved. This advice becomes more important on the larger structures which are NOT designed to be handled or moved by one person alone.
Weights and Ground fixings
Never underestimate the weather. All portable shelters, including pop up gazebos should be securely fixed to the ground when used outdoors. We supply a stake kit with guy ropes with most models. This is designed for lawn/grass use. For hard standings we can supply cast iron weights as an option or PVC Sand/Water bags. These slot over the foot plate on each leg or attach to the frame. We recommend 26kgs per leg for most conditions, which is a pair of weights. We do not recommend the small plastic weights available elsewhere as they will not provide adequate ballast and will prove a false economy. We also encourage the use of Ratchet straps when a secure anchor point is available.
Frames - Steel Vs Aluminium
An aluminium Gazebo frame, built to the same strength standard, will weigh roughly 45% less than the same frame in steel. As a result, if high strength is of the highest priorities, the aluminium frame can be built to the same structural weight as the steel frame, and then be considerably stronger.
Aluminium is used on our semi-pro and professional frames as it enables us to offer a stronger than steel frame without additional weight. Strength ensures dependability so is therefore the primary benefit of using aluminium. The other benefit is that the anodised finish is more hard wearing than powder coated steel and will not rust, if scratched.
Covers - Polyester Vs PVC
Polyester covers with PVC backing are the standard cover used on Pop up Gazebos. They provide a strong, cost effective covering for gazebos and, if well made and correctly treated will be waterproof. The material is not naturally waterproof and on poor quality examples covers and seems can leak. Even on the best examples re-treatment will need to occur to retain waterproofing, much like on tents and outdoor clothing. Polyester covers have a pitted fabric surface which can be difficult to clean and therefore are not best suited to harsh, everyday use. For occasional use Polyester covers offer the best value for money but will have a limited lifespan when used regularly.
PVC covers are higher quality and outperform Polyester covers. PVC is a relatively new material to Portable Gazebos. However, it has been used on Professional hire marquees for many years, as a testament to its strength it is also used on curtain sided lorries! Albeit in a heavier form. PVC has a long list of qualities making it a better solution for Gazebos. It has a high resistance to tearing, is Inherently Waterproof for life and does not require retreatment. It is also easier to clean than Polyester as dirt does not get trapped. As well as benefits ensuring durability perhaps the most interesting benefit is that it provides a canvas for full colour photo printing or flood printing. This allows for high impact graphics to be designed onto the Gazebo creating maximum effect. PVC covers are more expensive than Polyester covers. The extra cost is offset by the durability making it much more effective for everyday or intensive use.
Take a look at the three ranges of Pop up Gazebos we offer below:
  
|
