Entrance canopies are attractive editions to the exits and entrances of buildings, but they are also functional. Manufactured from durable materials they can offer shelter for building users and guests alike. Entrance canopies are available in a wide range of designs and can even be created bespoke to solve answer specific requirements. This selection of canopies offers different kinds of protection from the elements however they all share one common property. Developed for use outdoors, and to provide cover, all canopies are designed to be waterproof.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the different waterproof canopies and the kind of cover they offer. We’ll also explore the materials used to construct entrance canopies, that help them repel water, protecting them from corrosive rust and keeping people dry when the heavens open.
What are entrance canopies made of?
When iron or iron alloys come into contact with oxygen and moisture, rust forms. Over time, rust breaks down the structural integrity of the metal, making it brittle and easy to break. As a result, the metals used and the way they are processed is important in equipment that is installed in an outdoor environment. While entrance canopies often include panels made from a wide range of materials, their framework is typically manufactured from metal.
Many waterproof entrance canopies use a structure made from 100 per cent aluminium. Unlike iron alloys like steel, aluminium never rusts making it ideal when the weather gets wet. Steel entrance canopies are also available to buy that can stand up to poor weather conditions. However, the steel must be coated with zinc using a process called galvanisation. Unlike standard steel which will rust when exposed to wind and rain, galvanised steel can hold its own against corrosion. The metal is dipped into hot vats of zinc to optimise protection levels. This process is far more effective than simply treating the metal.
Where possible opting for an aluminium entrance canopy rather than a steel solution is advisable. During installations, no matter how experienced and skilled fitters are, some galvanisation can be disturbed. Additionally, aluminium canopies are less costly to install as they are much lighter and easier to transport and move than those made using steel.
Offering additional protection and a smart-looking finish, entrance canopies are polyester powder coated rather than painted and can be produced in any BS or RAL colour selected. Not only will they never require a rust preventative treatment, but no touching up the paintwork is ever necessary either making them exceptionally low maintenance after bad weather.
The transparent glazing used in many entrance canopies is made from solid four-millimetre-thick solid polycarbonate. Exceptionally strong, this material is not just waterproof but is tinted and Ultraviolet (UV) stable to also protect from the sun’s rays.
Finally, roof bands insulated with rubber are also used in entrance canopies ensuring that no water ingress or leaks can ever occur.
What entrance canopy design features ensure they are waterproof?
By far, enclosed entrance canopies offer the most defence against rain. This option is a favoured solution for industrial enterprises that must have loading bay doors constantly open, but also at schools where young pupils waiting for pick up can enjoy maximum weather protection. Regardless of the angle that rain is falling at, an enclosed canopy can offer the maximum amount of protection making them the most waterproof of all designs.
Enclosed entrance canopies can have metal panels for a robust option, but those looking for more minimalist aesthetic and enhanced visibility can opt for transparent polycarbonate glazing. While there are numerous different styles of entrance canopy to select from, bespoke shelter makers can modify any design to make it an enclosed solution.
By design Dome and high dome entrance canopies are arched allowing water to fall freely, gently. and regularly over the sides instead of pooling on top and coming down in a downpour to splash those taking shelter.
How much do waterproof entrance canopies cost?
The cost of a waterproof canopy will depend on several factors. For obvious reasons, the size of a canopy will alter how expensive they are, as will making it an enclosed option as both these factors involve more materials. Additionally, the materials used can also impact price, as mentioned installing an aluminium canopy is less expensive than fitting one fabricated from steel.
When requesting a quote for a canopy, customers can ask for the price to be itemised. This way they can price the product and delivery separate from the cost of installation.
While it is possible to simply buy an entrance canopy and have it installed by your staff, customers selecting this option must ensure their personnel are suited to such a task. Installing a waterproof canopy on-site requires heavy lifting, so staff must be physically able.
To guarantee a secure and reliable fitting, allowing expert installers skilled in fitting custom entrance canopies can save customers, time, and energy. With experience gained from multiple installations, professional fitters will take far fewer hours to put a canopy in place.
Experts in bespoke entrance shelters
To sum up, entrance canopies are designed to be waterproof by default. Using innovative design features and cutting-edge materials and methods, canopies are constructed to cope with wet weather and keep the people who use them dry beneath. While a wide range of styles exists for canopies, an enclosed option will always offer the best protection from the elements.
At Shelter Solutions, we specialise in creating custom shelters designed to suit any size of premises and every application. All the entrance canopies that we supply are installed by our highly trained team. We pride ourselves on providing a high-quality customer experience from start to finish. To ensure seamless service every time, the team that manufactures an entrance canopy is the same one that installs it.
You can browse our range of entrance shelter styles or get in touch to discuss your specific requirements.
We offer a free site survey, and all our entrance canopies include a 15-year guarantee against rust.