FAQ
What are the applications for a Shadeport
What to do in the event of a hurricane or other severe weather event
DEFINITION OF A SHADEPORT
A Shadeport™ structure is a gazebo-like, removable structure for shade and UV-ray/inclement weather protection of people and property. A ShadePort™ structure is an expertly designed and engineered steel diagonally crossed space frame with a strong and durable, but easily removable, shade/screen material superimposed over the space frame. The ShadePort™ structure construction and design concept, as well as the material usage, is a time-tested European technology with a track record of over 20 years. It is a very affordable solution to creating: shade; UV sun block protection; showroom and comfort zone conditions. All ShadePort™ structure designs are engineered to meet all building standards, and conform to the SFBC, SBCI, and ASCE 7-95 Codes.
USES
Our many satisfied clients have hailed from a wide variety of industries, including: automobile, marine, recreational vehicle dealers (for inventory protection and employee comfort); carwash operators (for protection of drying lanes and customer waiting areas); child care centers (for UV and heat protection of children’s outdoor play areas); civic associations (for protection of residents at recreation and spectator sport areas); commercial, residential property owners (for protected parking, patio and recreation areas); golf courses (for protecting driving ranges, practice and refreshment areas); municipal / county governments (for protecting citizens at public pools, tennis courts, bleachers and bus stops); restaurants (for protection and comfort of diners at patio areas); and resorts / theme parks (for protection and comfort of guests at picnic and recreation/snack areas).
INSTALLATION
The columns can be secured permanently into concrete footers per blueprint specifications, bolted to an existing concrete slab, or bolted to anchor bolts in newly poured footers. Hoops can also be secured to the wall with brackets.
COLUMNS
The columns may be 3” - 8” (depending on size of unit), square or round, and are constructed of galvanized steel. HOOPS The hoops, 2” - 2.5” in diameter, are molded and pre-shaped with a natural galvanized steel finish.
SHADEPORT™ FABRIC
The ShadePort™ structure cover fabric, available in a wide range of colors, blocks out up to 96.7% of UV rays (equivalent to SPF 30), is fade and mildew resistant, and has a ten year life expectancy. Additionally, the fabric offers hail protection, and is resistant to cracking in sub-zero temperatures.
Click here for information on what fabrics are available, or click here to see what colors are available.
HURRICANE PREPARATION
In the event that a hurricane warning is posted or predicted, the fabric must be removed from the steel space frame. The ShadePort™ structure steel space frame is designed to withstand winds of 110 mph.
FABRIC APPLICATION AND REMOVAL
The fabric cover, pre-manufactured with a 1/4” galvanized cable stitched into the seam around the perimeter, is hooked to a restrainer on each corner. It is tensioned and secured with two cable clamps. To remove, simply release the tension by loosening the two bolts on the cable clamps, and unhook the four corners. Pull off the space frame and store away for re-installation at a later date.

