Fabric Structures: The Ideal Setting for Waste and Recycling Processing

Sept 14, 2018

Businesses that process waste and recycling materials have to contend with more than just day-to-day waste management. It’s equally important to keep materials organized and dry while maintaining good air quality, which is not an easy task when the materials are damp, odorous or hazardous. That’s why structures for dumps and recycling facilities need to be well-ventilated, weather-resistant and highly versatile. For these reasons, fabric buildings are uniquely suited to the waste and recycling industries and have helped many in the industry achieve long-term success.

Maximized Internal Space and Improved Air Quality

A lack of storage space can occasionally force waste and recycling facilities to stockpile material outdoors, leaving their goods exposed to snow, rain and wind. Fabric structures don’t require columns, poles or support posts, so virtually all of the space inside is useable. Business owners can lay out their workspace in whatever way will streamline the work process and keep employees safe. The lack of internal support posts also means that vehicles and heavy machinery, such as forklifts, racks, loaders and conveyors can get in and out of the building quickly and efficiently.

Consistent air circulation is an important feature inside every building, but especially for waste and recycling facilities. In particular, structures for recycling facilities need plenty of ventilation to maintain the integrity of their materials. Cardboard, paper, foam and other porous substances tend to absorb a lot of moisture, raising humidity levels and making it less comfortable to work inside the building.

Due to the clear span and high clearance design, ClearSpan fabric buildings are naturally well ventilated. The steady supply of air flow in a fabric structure keeps humidity levels low and ensures that materials stay dry. Moreover, it makes for fresher, cleaner-smelling air that workers can appreciate year-round.

Sturdy, Energy-Efficient Design

Many fabric building owners see their monthly operating costs begin to lower after acquiring a fabric building. The driving force behind this is the energy-efficient rooftop, which is made of white polyethylene. A white fabric roof allows plenty of sunlight to filter through, creating enough daytime light that supplemental lighting is not needed. The ability to eliminate artificial lighting during the day translates into significantly lower utility bills and can free up capital, making it easier for businesses to boost their annual profits.

Quality fabric rooftops are also climate-sensitive, meaning they can keep a building up to 20 degrees cooler in the summer and 20 degrees warmer in the winter. Certain fabric covers can also be made with flame-retardant properties, ensuring added fire safety around ignitable materials, like paints and solvents.

Fabric buildings are engineered and constructed with the highest level of structural integrity. Supported by triple-galvanized steel frames that resist corrosion, the frame of a fabric structure is able to withstand balanced and unbalanced snow and wind loads and can be custom-engineered to meet any local building codes.

Highly Customizable and Quick to Build  

No matter how specific the building requirements may become, a fabric structure can be tailored to satisfy each one. A fabric building can be outfitted with just about any imaginable accessory, from basic features, like doors and windows, to more complex ones, such as conveyor systems and terraces. In addition, fabric structures can be constructed on very large scales, up to 300 feet in width and at any length.

Traditional buildings made from iron, steel or wood can take months to complete, while fabric structures can be installed in as little as three to five days. Once a fabric building is already constructed, it can be expanded upon quickly, or disassembled and rebuilt for use at a new location.

Traditional buildings are typically limited to concrete foundations, which require a lengthy process of site excavation and waiting for concrete to dry. One of the most versatile aspects of fabric buildings is the wide array of temporary and permanent foundation options available, including helical anchors, wood posts, shipping containers, pre-cast concrete blocks and driven tube anchor kits.

Helical anchors are probably the most time-saving, economical foundation option available to any business. Spiral-shaped anchors are driven directly into the ground to avoid the time and cost associated with excavation. Although it’s classified as a temporary foundation, helical anchors are strong enough to remain permanent fixtures. Additionally, some municipalities require structures for dumps or recycling to meet certain HVAC requirements and fire safety codes. Since fabric structures can be classified as temporary, many of these building requirements can be avoided, saving business owners time and money.

Fabric buildings can be constructed at a low cost per square foot and can be expanded, modified and transported at a much faster pace than any other structure. If business needs suddenly change, fabric buildings provide the flexibility that business owners need to meet time-sensitive goals.

Find out how a fabric structure can help your facility: Request a Quote today.