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What characteristics should a tarpaulin for a tensile structure have ? What we commonly call a " tarpaulin " is actually one of the essential elements for a sturdy, long-lasting structure. Let's look at the materials, their properties, and the different types available on the market.
The material: PVC tensile structure sheet
The technical name for PVC is polyvinyl chloride —also called vinyl chloride. In its pure form, PVC is a rigid material, but when mixed with plasticizers, it becomes flexible and moldable. Just as it needs to be to cover our tensile structures! PVC is considered safe to use at room temperature, but can be dangerous in high-heat situations, as it can release hydrochloric acid.
Consider that—as often happens in history— it was discovered by pure chance way back in 1872! However, it was only made moldable in 1926 thanks to the ingenious idea of an American inventor to mix it with plastic additives.
As mentioned, PVC in its original form is extremely sensitive to heat —even that of sunlight. Therefore, processes for adding chemical stabilizers have been perfected over time to make it suitable for use.
If this process is missing, PVC, when exposed to heat sources, undergoes a dramatic color change: first yellow, then pink, then red, and finally brown. Not a pretty sight for tensile structures!
Now that we know the material we're talking about, let's look at its winning features and the weight required for safe and long-lasting use as a tensile structure cover.
Fire resistance: PVC is a fireproof material
One of the characteristics that have made PVC so popular in the construction industry is its moderate flame retardancy . Remember when we talked about stabilizers for heat resistance? These are precisely the same ones that make it an excellent fireproof material. To be precise, PVC is defined by national regulations as class 2 self-extinguishing – meaning it does not spread flames. If we consider that the scale ranges from 0 – non-flammable materials, such as concrete – to 5, we understand how PVC is in an excellent position!
For your information, we must point out that there are also PVC sheets on the market with a class 1 fireproof treatment , which makes them even more resistant to combustion.
In any case, the amount of heat developed during hypothetical combustion is still considerably lower than with many other materials.
Finally, even in the event of a fire, the dioxins released into the environment – extremely toxic and carcinogenic to humans – are low.
In short, a safe material that:
- offers excellent performance between -30° and +70°
- It is hardly flammable and does not spread fire
- does not release large quantities of harmful substances if burned
But let's get to a crucial characteristic of the PVC tensile structure sheet: the weight.
Tensile structure fabric weight: an important aspect
When considering renting, and especially purchasing, a tensile structure, a key factor to consider is the weight of the fabric . Not all PVC fabrics are created equal!
By grammage we commonly mean the thickness of the cloth. Although it would be more correct to speak of weightWeight is measured in grams per square meter. The heavier and therefore more robust the fabric, the more durable the investment will be.
On the market we can find covers for tensile structures and gazebos from 500 g/m² to 900 g/m².
The evaluation of the correct weight must take into account the following factors.
- Exposure to extreme weather events – hail, strong winds, heavy snow.
If the structure is to be built in a permanent form in locations where the weather is unpredictable, a higher weight will be more appropriate.
- Sun exposure – the higher the weight, the greater the shading and UV ray filtering function.
- Desired thermal insulation
A higher weight corresponds to greater thermal insulation, especially in the winter. This factor should also be considered for fixed structures, especially if you don't plan on installing a heating system.
AmarantoIdea tent structures are made with 850 g/m² PVC tarpaulin for the top and 650 g/m² for the sides. The aim is to offer maximum safety against weather conditions and excellent thermal performance.
Crystal tensile structure fabric, white or colored
Finally, we can't fail to mention the aesthetic aspect, which is very important for certain uses—trade fairs, conferences, concerts, weddings. The classic tensile structure fabric is white PVC . This is used in almost all industrial tensile structures —warehouses, agricultural tunnels, animal shelters , and riding stables.
It is also often used for tensile structures for large events or festivals.
A decidedly more elegant type of marquee cover is the crystal cover . This is a completely transparent and shiny cover: perfect for weddings and hospitality facilities! We discussed this fantastic option in detail in our article " Transparent Crystal Marquees."
A final option is the custom colored one . Remember that PVC is a material suitable for molding and can be made to order. This means it can be customized with logos, slogans , or even completely colored! Just think of the incredible variety of truck tarpaulins—also made of PVC!
The tarp: a factor not to be underestimated
In this lengthy article, we've explored the " tarpaulin " issue in detail. There's no joking around when it comes to tarpaulins! Especially when it comes to weight. A perfect tensile structure with the wrong tarpaulin weight could prove to be an investment that doesn't last as long as you'd hoped!
At AmarantoIdea, we are ready to offer you the best structures with guaranteed quality tarpaulins!