Technical Information

We're proud of the engineering innovations in the Shadeworld system. This is just a summary of the most important points, if you have more questions about the technical side of our product, please get in touch.

Structure

Shadeworld structures are fully engineered to meet New Zealand building standards for a 50-year life span. Drawings are available for securing building permits.

The building is modular, and can be added to in any direction at any time. Our structures have a simple socket-together construction, for quick and easy assembly. No special tools are required. An average-sized (10 x 30 m) structure could be put up by two people in a week.

Framework

The posts and knees are of welded steel construction and galvanised. The steel knee strengthens the junction between the post and rafter and allows for extra-wide spans: 10 m without bracing, and up to 30 m with a truss system if required. Less buttressing means less shadows, and maximises light and heat inside the structure.
The rest of the framework is made of T6 temper (extra-strong) aluminium alloy. The extruded aluminium guttering is strong enough to walk on, and allows access to the whole roof. Roof vents can be added or extended later, and a wind-up-wall system can be installed for temperature and humidity control.

Covering

The structure can be covered with shade cloth or horticultural film.

• Depending on grade, shade cloth blocks 40% to 90% of UV radiation, and is guaranteed for ten years.

• We use quality 200 micron horticultural film, and our clipping system can secure two thicknesses (up to 450 microns). Film is guaranteed for three years, though manufacturers' estimates are conservative and have to allow for the degrading effects of horticultural sprays; the industry bargains on ten year's life, and we have seen films twelve to fifteen years old in good condition.

• Windbreak cloth can also be used on the framework.

Our clipping system allows us to use twin skins of horticultural film, for added insulation. Unlike some designs, Shadeworld structures do not need an inflation fan to keep the skins apart, and thus the trapped air is static and a more efficient insulator.