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Tension fabric buildings or tension fabric structures are constructed using a rigid frame—which can consist of timber, steel, rigid plastic, or aluminum—and a sturdy fabric outer membrane. Once the frame is erected, the fabric cover is stretched over the frame. The fabric cover is tensioned to provide the stable structural support of the building. The fabric is tensioned using multiple methods, varying by manufacturer, to create a tight fitting cover membrane.
Compared to traditional or conventional buildings, tension fabric buildings may have lower operational costs due to the daylight that comes through the fabric roof when light-coloured fabrics are used. This natural lighting process is known as daylighting and can improve both energy use and life-cycle costs, as well as occupant health.[1][2]
Tension fabric structures may be more quickly installed than traditional structures as they use fewer materials and therefore usually require less ground works to install.
Some tension fabric structures, particularly those with aluminium frames, may be easily relocated.
- ^ Szybinska, Barbara Szybinska (2017). "Daylighting is More than an Energy Saving Issue". Energy Efficient Buildings. doi:10.5772/65866. ISBN 978-953-51-2875-5.
- ^ Boubekri, Mohamed (2008). Daylighting, architecture and health : building design strategies. Architectural. ISBN 978-0-7506-6724-1.[page needed]