SHADEPORT

The Shadeport from Shadeform is a unique framed shade structure that provides cost effective shading for numerous applications. Favoured by local councils and schools where practical and functional shading is required, the Shadeport gives unrivalled value for money.

The Shadeport can cover large areas with minimal support posts. Being framed, the fabric edge is kept at a constant height around the perimeter of the structure, reducing the chance of the sun creeping in under the shade. The Shadeport is available in a number of formats including square, hexagonal, rectangular, six-posts-long ridge (for larger applications), or as multiple units joined together.

The Shadeport can either be fully installed, including the obtaining of all relevant approvals, or provided in kit form if required, making it practical for use in country or isolated locations.

Applications

The Shadeport can be utilised for numerous applications but is particularly suited to commercial sites where practical shading with minimal support structure is required. Shadeports are ideally suited to playgrounds, schools, council reserves, child care centres, swimming pools, jumping pillows, sandpits and more.

Structural Design

Each Shadeport is engineer-designed and privately certified, with the structure specified to suit the terrain and wind speed category. Generally, structures are designed to N2 or N3, but Shadeform have manufactured and supplied Shadeports designed for cyclonic regions of Australia. The support frame is manufactured from galvanised grade 350mpa structural Australian steel, with optional powdercoating as required.

Compliance

Shadeport Framed Shade Structures meets DECS approval, meaning they are an accepted and preferred shade solution for government Schools.

Fabrics

The Shadeport generally utilises fabrics from the Polyfab range of commercial grade shadecloths. Generally, PolyFX is used, which is a premium heavy-duty commercial knitted shadecloth, providing up to 98 percent UV-B blockout. The fabric comes with a warranty of 10 years against UV breakdown and mildew.

For larger structures and windier areas, Comshade is typically used, which is an even heavier grade shadecloth that provides increased durability for harsher conditions. Other fabrics can also be used, such as Monotec 370 shadecloth or waterproof PVC as required.

Format

Within the Shadeport range there are a variety of formats designed to suit a majority of applications. The most common Shadeports are square or rectangular with four posts, ideally suited for shading large areas with minimal support structure. Multiple Shadeports can be linked together by using common posts, further increasing the shade footprint with minimal extra posts. Shadeports can be linked in a linear arrangement or multi-square format as required.

Alternatively for larger areas, instead of linking structures together to increase the footprint, a “long ridge” Shadeport can be used. Having six columns and two central rafters a single fabric can used, providing cover over a larger area with no shading gaps that occur where standard square or rectangular structures are joined. Long ridge Shadeports can also be joined with common posts, further adding to the versatility of the structure.

Hexagonal format Shadeports can provide shade over large areas with a striking and eye-catching structure. This configuration offers a perfect solution for areas that differ from standard shapes, allowing for more complicated layouts.

Dimensions

Shadeports are custom-made to suit the application or site and can be manufactured in a variety of sizes, ranging from the smallest Shadeport to cover a single picnic bench, right up to a huge six-post long ridge structure, designed to cover a jumping pillow. The height of the structure is also site-specific and manufactured to suit. Post heights can range from around 2.5 metres, typically used at childcare centres where the low height allows for maximum shade, right up to 4 metres and over when shading high play equipment on council reserves where increased clearances may be required.

Rafter Overhang

Where the shade is required to extend beyond the practical column set out, a rafter overhang can be specified. The shade fabric can then be larger than the column centres would govern, providing a greater shade footprint if required.

Anti-Vandal Deterrents

To deter would be assailants from climbing the structure, the Shadeport can be specified with either a circular disc at the top of the posts, or a spiked collar. Either of these options will reduce the risk associated with climbing if the Shadeport is to be located in an area prone to vandalism.

Maintenance and Lifespan

The Shadeport is easily inspected and maintained over its lifespan, and is simple and easy to replace when the time eventually comes. Fabrics typically last around 10 years and can be re-ordered to suit the structure. Shadeform keep all details on file, which ensures that re-measuring is rarely required.