The document discusses fixed and demountable architectural umbrellas, highlighting their structural differences and suitability for varying weather conditions. Fixed umbrellas are designed to withstand adverse weather without needing removal, while demountable umbrellas are light and require careful management during high winds to avoid damage and liability risks. Additionally, it warns against using non-engineered link panels or curtains on demountable umbrellas, which can compromise safety and warranty.

1. Umbrellas – Fixed vs Demountable
Architecturalumbrellastensile structures– the fabric is in tension and able to deal
with loads such as wind and snow
Fixed umbrellas are engineered to suit the local conditions Outdoor Umbrellas
– they are fixed and do not have to be taken down when the wind blows so they
provide shelter in all design weather conditions
Demountable umbrellas are made light so they can be removed – if they are left up
in wind their lightweight construction can get damaged and fail which could lead
to serious liability risks Tensile Fabric Structures. They typically have a label
attached to the frame which advises that the umbrella must be collapsed in the
event of high winds or the warranty will be void
Often these umbrellas are fitting with link panels and/or curtains (in an attempt to
make a cheap permanent umbrella). They cannot be demounted thereby voiding
the warranty while at the same time increasing the risk of damage and/or injury
because the structures are not engineered to handle the additional loads. The end
result is often disappointing as its difficult to avoid leaking.