12 THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY
CARIBBEAN BLINDS UK LTD
Above and below , The Caribbean Blinds Prestige Outdoor Living Pod™ installed as part of a commercial project ( The Conduit Club , Mayfair )
The Caribbean Blinds Deluxe Outdoor Living Pod™ installed as part of a commercial project ( Ichiba , Westfield )
How To Weather-Proof Your Commercial Outdoor Space Ready For The Winter
Since the easing of the lockdown restrictions back in July , the hospitality sector has pulled out all the stops to welcome us back with open arms . However , the current social distancing guidelines have hugely restricted indoor seating options , meaning now is the ideal time for restaurants , bars and hotels to look into weather-proofing their outdoor dining areas for the long term .
AWNINGS , LOUVERED PERGOLAS & EXTERNAL BLINDS As we transition into winter , many temporary outdoor covers such as brollies , parasols and pop-up marquees are showing the strain . Although retractable awnings can protect and shelter customers from light rain showers at the touch of a button , they can be susceptible to damage from high winds . Modern pergolas with either sliding fabric or rotating aluminium louvered roofs and sides offer a more pragmatic solution , providing protection from heavy rain , gale force winds and even snow .
MATERIALS The framework of any terrace covering should ideally be manufactured from powder coated aluminium , as this super-strong , corrosion resistant and highly durable material can survive the knocks and bumps of bustling environments .
No matter the type of outdoor fabric canopy used within your commercial space , it is more likely to stand the test of time if manufactured from acrylic fibres . Fit for purpose and dimensionally stable , acrylic will not warp or stretch when under tension . In addition to this , the solution dye that impregnates the colour right through to the core of the yarn means the material will not fade .
OPERATION As well as allowing for an effortless extension and retraction process , integrated motors safeguard against exposure to the elements . Intelligent sensors ( in particular wind protection sensors ) are highly recommended as once incorporated into the install ; they can allow for closure of the product when left unattended .
As a potentially sizeable investment that will help keep your business going throughout the colder months , adequate research around which terrace covering ( and installation company ) goes without saying .
Choose a UK supplier wherever possible , as an authentic ‘ Made in Britain ’ product usually guarantees outstanding quality and significantly shorter lead times , however , your chosen specialist should boast a wealth of experience within their field , provide a range of solutions for your application and finally be open to your specific requirements and budget .
The Caribbean Blinds Cayman External Roof Blinds installed as part of a commercial project ( Ping Pong , Southbank )
WEBSITE : www . cbsolarshading . co . uk / commercial