Prefabricated Canopy Assembly Specifications

Components List

• Canopies have diverse range, model and design possibilities, therefore, the engineering of parts and accessories vary widely. Common parts for roof-only canopies include columns, posts, support braces, fascia and drainage. Many canopy roofs are made of fiberglass, aluminum, heavy canvas, polycarbonate sheeting and other metals. More sophisticated canopy designs have many enhancements and design options and accessories, such as sidewalls, doors, electrical fixtures or heating equipment.

Materials

• Specifications typically require the specific standards of quality for the materials used to construct each component. Materials cannot have defects that affect the canopy's durability, strength or appearance. Specifications also mandate members such as columns and roofing panels meet exact dimensions, straightness and other provisions. For example, one canopy manufacturer has the following specifications for the product's columns: columns must consist of round or square steel tubes of ASTM 500 Grade B and a minimum yield stress of 46,000 psi (pounds per square inch).

  This means the tubing conforms to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) requirements for the design's dead load. The columns must also have 4-inch wide openings to allow electrical access. The product maker also requires the fasteners to conform to certain criteria such as nonmagnetic stainless steel with a minimum ASTM A 307 rating for strength.

Submittals

• Installers and product owners need specific information and data to make informed decisions when purchasing canopies. This includes product data such as the manufacturer's specifications, lists of parts and quantities, installation guidelines, component profiles and dimensions, and material details. These packages also includes drawings and layouts to assist in the assembly process. Usually, the package includes information for product maintenance and care.

Installation Guidelines

• Generally, the majority of commercial canopies require professional installation. Many do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts have the skill to install certain residential canopies. Consult with the product distributor or manufacturer to ensure a DIY installation does not void the product's warranty. The instructions guide installers through specific procedures and recommendations for putting canopies in place, including site preparation and support structures. Many canopies call for the installer to anchor the canopy to the building; this requires adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines and following local building codes.