Our processing

1. Pre-engineered

TSS's standard products are engineered for Wind Exposure C, at 90mph (3 second gust) by ASCE 7-05, equivalent to 115mph (ultimate 3 second gust) by ASCE 7-10.

TSS's Extra Strong (ES) products are engineered for Wind Exposure C, at 130 mph (3 second gust) by ASCE 7-05, equivalent to 165mph (ultimate 3 second gust) by ASCE 7-10.

The products are not designed for snow loads, and even ES canopies should be removed in advance of hurricanes and tornados to avoid damage to the fabric from debris. Canopy hardware is designed to make removal and re-installation simple and expedient.

2. Canopy choosing

Each canopy is manufactured from the highest quality knitted fire-retardant High-Density-Poly-Ethylene fabric available. Please note that while it is a superior shade material, with shade factors ranging from 66-97%, it is not a complete shelter from rain.

The fabric comes in 18 colors and has a 10 year UV warranty from the fabric manufacturer. Each canopy is perimeter-edged with a layer of tough, acrylic covered polyester webbing, and sewn with GoreTex thread.

All canopy connection and tensioning hardware is stainless steel.

3. Frame and finish

TSS frames are made from carbon steel pipe and/or structural tubing to achieve an optimal balance of grace and strength. Mill finish, for painting or powder-coating, is standard.

We recommend 2-part polyurethane paint be applied after steel erection. Using a local painting contractor is preferable as it reduces shipping costs, limits the risk of in-transit damage, and keeps any future finish-related work in close proximity to the installation for the life of the product.

We also offer powder-coating, in basic and super-durable finishes, with additional zinc-rich primer undercoat available for corrosive environments.

4. Foundation

Only the product (not its connection to the site) is pre-engineered. Each installation requires a site-specific foundation to be designed by a locally licensed Structural Engineer.

We provide Loading Criteria and Sample Foundation Designs based upon typical Arizona soil and weather conditions. It is essential that a Structural Engineer, licensed local to the installation, design the foundation according to the installation's soil and weather conditions.

The Sample Foundation Designs are NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION. It is necessary, however, to use the anchor bolt sizes and layouts shown therein.

5. Installation

Products come with easy-to-understand instructions. Any contractor familiar with steel erection and general construction techniques should be able to install our structures, but instructions must be followed for an installation that looks right and performs as designed.

Proper installation is vital for the appearance, function, longevity, and safety of the installed product. Improper installation will void the product warranty.

TSS offers an on-site Installation Advisor service for clients and contractors desiring complete confidence in the installed product. Should there be any questions, telephone support is available at no cost.

6. Maintenance

We also offer a canopy replacement service, where we inspect your tensile structure and renew required parts including pillars, joints, cables etc.

We also test the load strength of all cables and replace failed units.