Purchasing
Plan a Budget
There are certain costs clients can expect when planning a shade project. Plan for 10% to go towards freight, 40% product, and 50% for engineering and installation.
Have an Experienced Installer
While installing a shade structure yourself can save on installation costs, it’s important to have at least one experienced installer supervise and instruct in every step of the project to ensure your shade is installed safely and correctly.
Consider the Glide Elbow™
An exclusive feature of Superior Shade, the Glide Elbow™ mechanism allows you to easily attach and remove the shade fabric from its frame! This easy process is done with a simple wrench or a cordless drill. This mechanism features a fabric-hook connection that minimizes metal-on-metal wear. The Glide Elbow™ is especially helpful when you need to quickly remove the fabric before severe weather hits. Consider how many times you expect to take the fabric down in any given year. If you live in an area that gets at least six inches of snow at any given time or a hurricane-prone area, the Glide Elbow™ will be especially beneficial for you! The Glide Elbow™ will make it easier to remove and reattach the fabric before and after severe weather.
Installation
Check Inventory
It’s important that you take inventory of all shade equipment received using the packing list shipped with your unit. Review all items to ensure there are the right quantities and check for any damaged components. Notify us immediately if there are any missing or damaged items.
Proper Storage
When you receive your shade equipment, it should be installed as soon as possible – within a few days. We package the equipment to keep them safe and damage-free while it’s shipped. Please note the packaging material is not suited for periods of extended storage in uncontrolled environments. The combination of moisture in the air mixed with heat generated inside the plastic shrink-wrap may cause damage to the finish of powder-coated frames.
Prepare the Site
- Hire a utility-locating service to locate any underground lines before digging
- Make sure the site is clear of loose asphalt, concrete, and other debris
- Grade the site to as close to level as possible
- Have all necessary equipment on-hand
Don’t Leave the Site Unattended
Be sure to not leave the site unattended without making sure all open holes are covered with material such as plywood. Rope off all unfinished construction to keep others away from potential harm until the installation is complete.
