June 2023 - Parks & Recreation - 50

OPERATIONS
Shade Adds Value to Your Park
By Jennifer Egan
W
When outside
temperatures
reach high digits, a
shade structure can
drastically reduce
the temperature
beneath its cover.
hen it comes to planning or improving outdoor spaces, like
parks, pool and splash pad areas, dining spaces, parking
areas, and bleachers, a shade structure almost always is
considered. Not only can shade structures add unique architectural
elements to your space, but also they offer important benefits.
Consider adding shade to outdoor areas to provide protection from ultraviolet
(UV) rays, reduce the temperature under the shade structure, and keep
outdoor recreational products strong and durable.
dren's bodies can heat up three to five
times faster than an adult's body, so it
is essential to provide a place for children
to take a break and cool down
so they can be safe while having fun
outdoors. Equipment, such as playgrounds,
tables and benches, also can
get extremely hot if they are not shaded.
A shade structure can keep these
amenities cool so people can relax,
and children can play without burning
their sensitive skin.
Protection From
Harmful UV Rays
Shade structures offer an effective
solution to protect guests from harmful
UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure
can have serious effects on health,
and shade can help prevent heatrelated
illnesses
and skin
cancer.
Shade structures also allow guests to
enjoy longer periods of time outside
and encourage community members
to make more visits to your park.
Reduced Temperature
Under Shade Structures
When outside
temperatures
Keeping Outdoor
Recreational Products
Strong and Durable
Park equipment will eventually be
impacted by sun damage after being
outdoors for prolonged periods
of time. UV rays will negatively
impact certain plastic and fabric
materials, causing them to age and
fade more quickly. Shading your
outdoor products from the sun and
harsh climates will lead to a longer
lifespan and extended durability,
protecting your investment.
reach
high digits, a shade structure can
drastically reduce the temperature
beneath its cover. Excessive heat exposure
can be hazardous to health,
especially when the body temperature
elevates to dangerous levels. Chil50
Parks & Recreation | JUNE 2 0 2 3
Fabric vs. Steel
Now that you know the important
benefits of adding a shade structure
to your outdoor space, there are a
variety of shade types to consider.
Fabric shade structures are popular
for parks, schools, zoos and mu|
PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G
seums, among other venues. They
are more economical compared
to steel shade. However, they do
require some basic maintenance,
such as tensioning of cables that
holds the material in place. A few
fabric shade solutions include:
* Hip ends, cantilevers, waterproof
umbrellas or sail shade canopies
for pool and splash pad areas
* Modular shades that can be incorporated
into the play structure
or freestanding for playgrounds
* Custom shade canopies for parking
lots, walkways, playgrounds
and hotels/resorts
Steel shelters are another option
to consider and can add substantial
value to your outdoor space.
These shelters can be constructed
in different sizes and shapes, including
hexagon, octagon, gable, hip
and square. Other custom shelters
include amphitheaters, bleacher
covers, dugouts, mini shelters, playground
covers, trellises and pergolas.
There are a variety of roofing
options. Steel shelters are low maintenance
and extremely durable.
Many factors
will
determine
which shade option is most suitable
for your park or outdoor
space. Considerations include size
and access, what you are looking to
shade, and your primary purpose
of the shade structure - whether
that's protecting against UV rays,
adding all-weather protection, designing
a unique look or creating a
comfortable space for guests. Once
these questions are answered, you
will be on your way to creating a
safe and enjoyable outdoor experience
for your guests, adding significant
value to your park.
Jennifer Egan is Marketing Coordinator at
Kraftsman Commercial Playgrounds &
Water Parks (jennifere@kraftsmanplay.com).
PHOTO COURTESY OF KRAFTSMAN COMMERCIAL
PLAYGROUNDS & WATER PARKS
June 2023 - Parks & Recreation

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