Introduced a year ago, Infinity Canopies are a modular system consisting of individual five-feet by two-feet shade panels that connect together. This way, they can be configured to fit any space, easily modified in size, color, design and style, and simply removed for cleaning, storing, and replacement when damaged. And there is no waiting for a canopy to be fabricated. Installation, though not difficult, benefits from accurate measurements that professionals provide. First a rectangle loop of stainless steel aircraft cable is made between two existing, opposing structures. Aluminum frame profiles are attached to parallel sides of this cable rectangle. The Phifertex or Sunbrella panels are then slid into channels in the profiles. infinitycanopy.com

Pergolas, pavilions, gazebos and the like are very often a part of a custom outdoor installation and many times, landscape contractors have to sub that work out. Learning more about shade structures can be the first step in keeping these parts of the projects in-house.

What customers are asking for -
"Pergolas and pavilions have been the premier choice, according to Walpole's incoming orders. Families want to spend more time outside, while bringing the indoor comforts with them."

Fifthroom, which supplies custom-designed kits for pergolas, gazebos, ramadas, pavilions and more, is looking for contractors to join their free Professional Partner Program. Members receive discounted pricing, preferred lead times on products, commissions on all products purchased directly from Fifthroom.com, referrals to local installation jobs, and access to the manufacturer's Design, Engineering and Logistics department. fifthroom.com

 

Matching an outdoor structure to a backyard space -
"First, we look at the function that needs to be served. Once a type of structure is selected, we work closely with the landscapers, outdoor room designers and architects to make sure the design, color and proportions of the structure blend seamlessly with the home's existing style as well as the surrounding landscape and hardscape."

Cellular PVC vs. wood -
"It still has the same look and feel as real wood, but the difference is that cellular PVC requires much less maintenance and will withstand nature's elements without warping, rotting, splitting, or cracking. Other benefits are its functionally and ability to be personalized. As an example, Walpole offers an extensive palette of over 100 Sherwin-Williams vinyl safe paint colors. In addition, cellular PVC can be bent to create interesting curvilinear lines or shapes and is easier to incorporate wiring for lighting, TV, stereos, and other electronics."

Offering free design services complete with CAD drawings for challenging projects, ShadeTree???(R)???AE???? Canopies is a source for retractable canopies and track kits, or complete aluminum or vinyl structure kits with canopies. Their system includes a patented wind release feature that allows unattended canopies to move freely in the tracks during high winds to prevent damage. shadetreecanopies.com

Millennial homeowners -
"As they enter the housing market and start their own families, their desire for creating areas that enable them to entertain friends and family becomes quite significant. Beyond the typical fencing for safety and privacy, along with pavilions or pergolas for shade, outdoor elements that also capture Millennials' interests are fire and water features, landscape lighting, outdoor furnishing, and outdoor kitchens."

Before installing third party-designed shade structures, it's wise to review the plan with the manufacturers. When this restaurant decided to cover its existing patio, the design team at ShadeFX, manufacturers of a patented single-track, retractable canopy system, assessed the architect-provided design and saw a need to modify it for added rain protection and functional apparatuses for suspended heating and lighting components. Its custom framework is made of steel HSS tubing, angles and steel channels. The vertical sections were attached to the floor by being bolted to the footings. The horizontal sections were attached to the vertical framework with bolts and welds. shadefxcanopies

Integrating traditional-style products in more contemporary settings - "Walpole Outdoor structures are highly customizable. We have created detailed, in-cut designs in traditional, modern and contemporary styles. One modern trend we have seen arise is the use of mixed materials, such as cellular PVC, different types of wood and metal."

walpolewoodworkers.com

DO NOT USE In the interest of helping to keep it in-house, here is a compilation of information about shade structures. (or LC/DBM compiled this information)

design, shipping and installation advice,

Lou Maglio, the president of Walpole Outdoors, a leading manufacturer and distributor of architectural landscape structures and other products, recently shared his thoughts on a number of topics concerning the outdoor living industry.

Developments in the outdoor living industry - "Over the years, we have noticed a considerable spike in catering outdoor design to the active individual. This could be the office employee who goes for a walk or jog during their lunch break, so running trails are mapped around the building; or the student hosting a study group under the pavilion outside the school building. These are just a couple examples of how we have made the transition from the indoors out a little easier, not to mention, what could be mundane activities, a bit more enjoyable."

What's trending - "One modern trend we have seen arise is the use of mixed materials, such as cellular PVC, different types of wood and metal."