Fabric buildings are common for industrial, commercial, and military purposes. They provide excellent storage and shelter solutions while being affordable, versatile, and easy to install.
Like any other structure, fabric buildings can sustain damage from harsh weather conditions, impact from debris, and wear and tear. When this happens, it’s important to know how to prevent further damage. Let’s go over what to do when your fabric building gets damaged so you can keep on-site personnel safe and minimize downtime.
Assessing the Damage and Safety Risks
The first step in handling a damaged fabric building is performing a thorough assessment. Begin by inspecting the structure to identify obvious signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or loose fabric. Pay attention to the foundation and anchoring system, as they are critical to the building’s stability.
If the fabric cover sustained damage, determine whether you can patch it up or call in the supplier for repairs. Safety should be your priority; if there is any risk of structural instability, evacuate the area immediately. The severity of the damage will dictate the next steps, from minor repairs to replacement of the entire structure.
Cleaning Debris
After ensuring the safety of everyone on-site and assessing the damage, the next step is to clear away any debris caused by the damage. This can include pieces of the fabric cover, fragments of the anchoring system, or other materials. Carefully clean the area to prevent further damage to the structure or your crew. Then, you can begin repairs or order a replacement from the tent supplier.
Contacting Your Original Installer
No matter the severity of the damage, you must contact the fabric structure as soon as possible, especially if you work with Big Top. We can guide you through the repair process and send you the materials to take care of it. We could also send out a team of experts to take care of everything for you! With DIY repair, you risk causing more damage or using materials that just aren’t up to par.
Performing Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance and care are crucial for extending the life of your fabric building. This includes routinely checking the fabric cover for signs of wear and tear and ensuring the anchoring system is secure. Routinely clean the interior and exterior of the structure to prevent the build-up of dirt or debris that could degrade the fabric.
Additionally, don’t overlook the importance of promptly addressing minor damage; a small tear can quickly become a gaping hole if neglected. If your site is in an area that usually gets harsh weather, perform checks before and after storms or periods of high winds. These inspections can help you identify potential issues that may not be immediately visible and ensure the longevity of your fabric building.
Now that you know what to do when a fabric building gets damaged and how to protect your crew, call Big Top as soon as you can to minimize downtime. As the experts in covered buildings, we know how to tackle any repair, big or small.