Canopy

A canopy is a protective roof-like covering made out of canvas or other material. They serve a plethora of functions around the home and outdoors.

Party Tents and Gazebos

Large party tents are great ways to provide shade and protect your event from the chance of rain during weddings, parties, graduations, family reunions, and other outdoor celebrations. These tents are sold in a broad range of styles and colors, with functional straight-lined and stylized sweeping-arch roofs. They traditionally use pole and frame construction, are easy to put up, and can be rented.

Garden gazebo canopies are an attractive way to equip your yard with a space free from raindrops and bugs where you can eat and relax. These structures are sold in rectangular and hexagon shapes, and may offer ceiling vents and breathable mesh walls. They make great shade enclosures for outdoor picnic tables, patios, and lawn furniture.

Pop-Up Canopies

Pop-up Canopies can be found in sporting and commercial grades. Sporting pop-up canopies are used to provide shade while camping, picnicking, and enjoying other outdoor activities. In purchasing one of these, be sure to examine its structure.

The metal frames are typically constructed of aluminum or steel alloys. Be sure the pop-up tent you choose will withstand the environment you play to use it in. You can find some pretty inexpensive pop-ups that might be perfect for a protected back yard, yet they run the risk of collapsing or ripping under high beach and mountain winds. When in doubt, err on the side of strength. Pole and frame constructions are used on less expensive versions, while better sport and commercial grade tent canopies use collapsing according structures. These make for easier transport, and usually can be set up by two people within a few minutes.

Commercial grade tents use stronger frames appropriate for heavier use and harsher conditions. They are frequently used by vendors selling goods at festivals, concerts, and fairs, or as corporate booths at conventions. They can be personalized with your company's colors, brands, and can be custom produced in extended lengths. Canopy pavilions offer full enclosure with similar functionality.

Protective Canopies

Shade sails are a trendy was to offer UV light protection in hot sunny areas. They filter sunlight while still allowing full ventilation, so you still feel like you're sitting outdoors. Shade sails are available in trendy geometric shapes and bright colors. Canopies that use a fabric tension structure with center-pole construction have a low profile, offer large shade areas, and are great for festivals, marketing events, beaches and other windy spots. Other protective canopies use sturdy metal or PVC piping in well-built pole and frame constructions, and can be used to provide coverage for boats, cars, RV's, and pool areas.

By Doug Vanisky