Frequently Asked Quesions
Is a fabric structure better than a traditional building?
Tension fabric buildings can be superior to traditional buildings for several reasons. Fabric buildings offer significant cost savings over traditional structures made of metal, wood, or poles of comparable size. They require less architectural planning, can be constructed more quickly, and utilize more affordable materials.
Another benefit of fabric structure buildings is that they can be erected in a fraction of the time it takes to construct comparable buildings made of traditional materials.
Fabric structures can also significantly reduce lighting and energy expenses due to their translucent design, which allows ample natural light to enter. This natural lighting makes them an excellent choice for greenhouses or other facilities that need abundant light and interior visibility.
Fabric structures can be securely anchored to almost any level surface without a solid concrete foundation. Since fabric buildings don’t require a poured foundation, they cost less in time and materials and are very versatile.
Can you build a tension fabric building anywhere?
Tension fabric buildings can be built in very diverse places, but planning ahead is crucial.
Consider the type and condition of the soil on the site. Good soil compaction and leveling will ensure a stable foundation for the fabric structure. Proper grading will divert surface water away from the building and its contents. Plan for electrical and water needs so that proper service can be connected during the site prep stage.
Check with your local town hall and zoning department to find out what is required before starting construction. Be sure to learn how to successfully build your project within regulations.
More Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is a Tension Fabric Structure?
A tension fabric building is a structure with a rigid frame and a fabric membrane stretched over it to create a stable structure. It is also known as a fabric building or a fabric-covered building.
Q:How much does a fabric structure cost?
It depends on the size of the structure you build, but with fewer fees and permit expenses, hoop buildings can cost 5-30% less than traditional stick-frame structures.
Q:What areas does Thundura serve?
We offer our turnkey fabric building installation service within a 3-hour drive of our Bernville, PA manufacturing facility. If you live outside our service area, we can ship your building to your location, and you can use your preferred contractor or DIY. We occasionally go further… Call us to discuss the possibilities if you’re outside of this!
Q:What makes Thundura different/better than our competition?
We design and manufacture in-house, which allows us to control the project from start to finish and ensure constant quality. We have years of experience in both selling and building fabric structures. The small details are important to us!
Q:Do fabric structures meet the building code?
Yes, Thundura buildings can be engineered to comply with the local building code, and several pre-engineered plans are available. Before building, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local permit requirements since different areas have different building codes. An upside of fabric structures is that they’re considered semi-permanent structures in many areas and have fewer permit requirements and legal hassles.
Q:What kind of foundation does a fabric structure need?
Tension fabric buildings can have different types of foundations. Many of our clients have discovered the economy of using the large preformed concrete blocks available from many concrete companies. Others prefer concrete highway wall dividers. Poured concrete subwalls create a strong, uniform look. Another great option, especially for livestock, is a pole or metal post framework, which allows for curtained ventilation.
Q:Are Thundura Structures covered by warranty?
Yes! All of our structure covers are backed with a 15-year pro-rated warranty. In most cases, the frame will easily last 3 times longer than the cover.
Q:Are tension fabric buildings big enough to store large equipment?
Yes, tension fabric buildings have massive headroom potential. Combining headspace with your choice of width and length means you can design it to whatever size you need. Need to dump a tri-axle dump truck inside or get enough width for an extra wide rig you’d like to store? No problem.
Q:Can tension fabric structures withstand wind and snow loads?
Yes. Tension fabric structures are remarkably durable and designed to endure strong winds and heavy snow loads. The fabric is pulled tightly over the frame, resulting in a robust construction capable of withstanding severe weather. Additionally, the frame is securely anchored to the ground, enhancing the building’s overall stability.
Q:Can I custom-design a fabric structure?
Yes. We’ve completed several innovative solutions projects, from removable orchard row covers to round storage pit roofing structures to ultra-customized buildings for specific use in common spaces or categories. We love the challenge of new projects with unique needs and would happily build a custom-building solution for you.
Q:Do tension fabric buildings have to be free-standing?
No. You can choose to either make them free-standing or attach them to an existing barn or other structure to best support your building needs.
Q:What are my options for closing the ends?
There’s an array of options for closing the ends of a fabric structure. Fabric ends are cost-efficient and attractive. They are recommended for ends where there are two or fewer openings. Framing with sheet metal or wood sheeting/planking works great, too, giving you the option of matching your fabric structure to your existing buildings. As you plan, consider the light and ventilation options you may want in your end walls.
Q:Do I need walls on both ends of the structure?
No. Your tension fabric structure could be open-ended or only have one enclosed side.
Q:What is the edge clearance for Thundura Structures?
The edge clearance is dependent on the structure width you are considering. Contact us for more information.
Q:What is the lead time for Thundura structures?
Typical lead time is 4-12 weeks, depending on supply and demand and other variables.
Q:How does the building package get delivered?
If you have access to a truck large enough and would like to pick up the building package, you’re welcome to haul it yourself. Otherwise, we completely handle delivery arrangements.
Q:What is the temperature inside a tension fabric building?
The temperature of Thundura structures will vary due to multiple factors. The strategic placement of the building in relation to the sun will provide excellent shade in the hot summer months. This, combined with ventilation options, is part of the free energy benefit of a fabric structure, keeping our fabric buildings at comfortable temperatures as the seasons change.
Q:Do fabric structures offer UV protection?
Choosing the correct colors can provide UV protection. If UV protection is one of your concerns, choose any color from our palette except white. Feeds, animals, and equipment may benefit from this UV protection.
Q:What is a Thundura project supervisor?
A Thundura project supervisor provides expert leadership to your team building the structure. If you have a work crew but would appreciate expert guidance in erecting your structure, we’ll be happy to provide you with a Thundura crew leader. They are available for projects within a 3-hour radius of our location.
Q:What tools and equipment will I need to provide if I buy a Thundura structure?
Tools and equipment depend on your chosen method of installation. Regardless of the chosen installation package, we strive to ensure you know what’s needed or required of you!
Q:Do you only build agricultural structures?
No, Thundura Fabric Structures can serve a variety of industries. Tension fabric structures can be used for agricultural, commercial, and municipal purposes.
Q:Can a tension fabric structure be used for livestock?
Absolutely! Tension fabric buildings are the perfect way to expand your livestock operation. They can house calves, sheep, pigs, and more.
Q:Are fabric structures always white?
No, the fabric structure can be colorized to your taste! You can choose colors that blend well with your structure’s location and coordinate the end wall materials with the fabrics for the roof, sidewalls, and trim.
Q:Does customizing the color increase the cost?
For most projects, we can mix and match colors or add stripes at no additional cost!