FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Investing in a canopy can improve conditions in public spaces dramatically, however, they are also an expensive investment and it is wise to do your research before choosing a company to build your canopy.

Clovis Canopies have over 50 years experience in manufacturing and we are able to get your canopies designed and built to a very high standard easily.

We are also incredibly knowledgeable about all aspects of the canopy planning, design and build process, and we can help you through every step of the way. If you have been looking at our projects and designs and you still have some questions, you can read our FAQ section below to see how we can aid you with your canopy design and choices.

From school canopies, public space canopies, commercial canopies and even canopies for art installations. Contact us using the button below for a quick and easy quote.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Will I require planning permission?

We always advise that you call your local planning authority as there are no hard and fast rules. They will advise on whether you require planning permission for your proposed canopy. Although it differs from region to region canopies under 30m2 may not require permission but this can be affected by situations such as proximity to neighbours, listed building status, conservation areas etc. so it always best to check. We are happy to provide free of charge, scaled drawings etc. of the proposed canopy structure to assist your application should you require.

Are your canopies usable all year in all weathers?

Yes unlike some solutions that need to be taken down in the winter or during high winds our canopies are designed to be useable all year round. The cladding materials as well as providing shade are also waterproof so that they can be used during wet weather.

What are Building Regulations and will they affect me?

In relation to our canopies Building Regulations specify the standard to which they should be built i.e. strength, fire rating of materials etc. Again it is advisable to contact your local Building Control officer(s), as a rule of thumb any canopy over 30m2 will require conformity to building regulations and an application will need to be made although this figure can be lower. Most of our structures are supplied conforming to the requirements for these regulations as standard and generic sets of structural calculations can be supplied free of charge to demonstrate to Building Control the integrity of the proposed structure and foundations.

What guarantees are offered?

Subject to appropriate cleaning and maintenance we offer the following guarantees:-

Framework – 25 years against failure within design, wind and snow loadings
Polycarbonate – 10 years against discolouration from sunlight
Fabric Cladding – 10 years against degradation / failure from sunlight

We aim for 100% satisfaction 100% of the time.

Do you fix your canopies directly onto tarmac?

No, all canopies are fixed on to concrete pads or bases as the structures can lift out from the ground if not fixed into a suitable concrete base due to the uplift created by wind acting on the roof area.

Will there be any additional hidden charges to the quotation?

No, our prices are all inclusive.

What further peace of mind can you give us before we place an order?

We are a sound, family run company with a high credit rating, which has been manufacturing and installing modular steel buildings for over 45 years. A great deal of our work comes from repeat business and recommendations from existing customers (references available on request). We aim for 100% satisfaction 100% of the time. As well as being CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Scheme) accredited, Construction Line registered we are a approved contractor to many Local Authorities and large building contractors. You will be allocated a dedicated Contract Manager who can be contacted to answer any questions that you may have at any point in the process.

What colour can the framework be?

Each canopy framework is supplied in the colour of choice from the standard RAL range. A match for most school colour schemes can be found with that range if required.

How are the fabric sheets attached to the framework?

Fabric sheets are securely attached all round using an aluminium cladding rail system, which has been tried, tested and proven for over 30 years.

How is the polycarbonate sheeting attached to the framework?

We use a two part glazing bar on our canopies with rubber gasket or cushions to attach the roof polycarbonate sheets as this allows for the expansion of the sheets as the weather heats up or cools down. The rubber gaskets as well as creating a watertight seal greatly reduce noise levels as the sheets expand and contract. We do not screw sheets directly to the framework as this can lead to the roofing sheets buckling and potentially causing leaks due to the possibility of screw heads popping off. In addition to this we never lap one sheet over the other as this can result in an algae build-up resulting in unsightly discoloured patches in the roof.

Do you use Polycarbonate, PETG, GRP or Acrylic for non fabric cladding?

At Clovis Canopies we use polycarbonate roofing as although slightly more expensive, we find it has a better combination of strength, impact resistance, sheet size and colour, fire / flame resistance and longevity of life than any of the other above mentioned cheaper materials.

Will our concerns over children and staff safety be addressed prior to installation?

We have been working within schools for many years. All contractors are Clovis approved and CRB checked. Full risk assessments are carried out prior to starting installation taking into consideration your requirements and safety fencing is erected wherever needed at no additional charge.

Can we view existing canopies, so that we know what we are buying?

If you are considering purchasing a canopy from any company, it is in fact strongly recommended that you visit an existing installation to see exactly what you are paying for. At Clovis Canopies we are proud of our work and are happy to arrange (with the clients consent) for you to view examples of our work and structures.

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