Innovative Use of Space
No matter which part of the country a business operates in, real estate is always at a premium — making the most of the available space ensures maximum property value. Cantilever structures enable property owners to use every square foot since extra pillars or posts are not required. Additionally, while traditional construction methods require level ground for foundations, cantilevers can be built on uneven slopes. This offers architects more freedom in their designs and enables them to maximize space further.
This benefits many commercial enterprises, including airports and shopping centers with large parking lots. These businesses can create more covered parking options for customers, helping protect their vehicles from hail and UV damage and potentially boosting customer loyalty. Plus, in the case of airports, businesses can charge more for covered parking spaces, possibly increasing profits. The benefits for car dealerships are similar — with cantilever structures, dealerships can protect inventory without giving up valuable space.
Cantilevers also open up a world of possibilities for rooftop parking. From offices to apartment buildings that offer rooftop parking, these projected beams help to make the most of a space while avoiding the cost of adding another deck to a parking garage.
Architectural Aesthetics
Many modern buildings follow an open-plan design, and cantilever structures help architects achieve this effect. Their freestanding nature ensures there are no obstacles to the flow of the interior. For example, cantilever structures at car dealerships help protect inventory without disrupting flow. Potential buyers can test-drive vehicles without having to navigate pillars and posts.
Additionally, cantilever structures come in several fabrics and steel colors, helping them enhance the aesthetics of a property and contribute to a more favorable customer experience. For businesses that meet with clients on-premises, creating a visually pleasing space is essential for their brand image.
Structural Benefits
Cantilevers come in a range of durable materials to suit different applications. Steel is most widely used for the beams. The fabric components are typically made from materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The hardiness of these materials ensures the cantilever structures stand up to various weather conditions, such as wind, hail, and harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Their rigid design also allows for efficient load transfer, enabling them to remain upright without needing columns or bracing supports.
Energy Efficiency
The United States Energy Information Administration (EIV) estimates that the commercial sector accounted for about 29% of U.S. end-use energy consumption in 2022. As concerns about climate change and the environment increase, many businesses prioritize increasing energy efficiency. Cantilever structures provide shade and can keep an outdoor area cool, allowing businesses to spend less on fans and other cooling devices.
Businesses can also optimize their cantilever structures by adding lighting. If artificial light is needed within cantilever structures, choosing LED lights is the efficient option.
Weather Protection
Cantilevered canopies are often used to shelter inventory, such as automobiles or machinery, from weather conditions like hail and UV rays. Choosing a fabric with superior weather protection helps safeguard assets stored below a canopy. Some reliable material options for cantilever structures include:
- HDPE: High-density polyethylene mesh fabric provides exceptional resistance against sunlight, blocking up to 96% of the sun’s harmful UV rays.
PVC: While not all applications suit polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it delivers effective weather resistance and hail protection.
- PTFE: Polytetrafluoroethylene has similar properties to HDPE and PVC, making it a quality option for cantilever structures.
In addition to using high-quality fabric to shield cars and components from the elements, it’s essential to seal the joints of the beams. Since the beams are typically fabricated from steel, extended outdoor exposure may cause corrosion. A galvanized steel process helps seal them against the elements and ensure increased longevity.
