When it comes to building a glass canopy, choosing the fixing is one of the most important parts of the overall construction process. The fixings are essential to the design of the canopy and they will support the entire structure, so it is crucial to choose the right ones.
There are a number of different glass canopy fixings that are used in most projects. However, the most popular of these are the AustVision Spider Canopy and the AustVision TieRod Canopy. These two are popular due to their excellent quality, their high levels of safety and their adaptability. Let’s take a look at what these two options have to offer.
AustVision Spider Canopy
The AustVision Spider Canopy System can be used for residential and commercial applications that require large panes and support spans for high design snow, wind and live loads. This would be the ideal style of canopy for a wide range of building projects in any climate. It is called a spider canopy because of the way the legs of the fittings splay out, which makes them more secure as they cover a wider area.
The system uses AustVision 445 of 446 series spider fittings to transfer the loads from the glass to the supporting members. Using these types of spider fittings reduces the installation time and provides you with an ease of adjustment when the canopy is on site. This system also offers good corrosion resistance as well as swivel fittings that will reduce glass stresses around holes.
AustVision TieRod Canopy
The AustVision TieRod Canopy System was developed and designed for commercial and residential entrances. It places a strong emphasis on ease of installation and the simplicity of its design. There is a range of standard designs available. Custom designs are also available on request.
The glass connectors that swivel are engineered with six-degree rotation in any given direction. This design allows them to create less stress and pressure around the glass hole compared to conventional styles of fixed connectors. These types of canopy fixings are easy to install and measure. They offer a simple frameless look and good corrosion resistance. The material is strong and durable, so it will last a long time and will be able to stand up to any weather.
Why Each Style of Canopy Fitting Is Used
So what are the factors that go into choosing a bracket or fixing method?
There are a number of considerations to make before choosing the right style of fixing for your canopy – including safety, budget, practicality and the aesthetics of your design.
The primary consideration that goes into choosing the type of bracket or fixing method is the environment in which the canopy will be installed. The “off-the-shelf” brackets and systems are usually preferred from an installation point of view, as it means that the product has already gone through testing and engineering. This will help to make sure that it complies with the current market and code regulations.
When we choose to use a custom made bracket or fitting, we need to rely heavily on the fabricator who is making the brackets. Often they are hesitant to sign off on this as it means that they will accept liability. This will cause an issue when the brackets need to be custom designed by an engineer and signed off. The engineer will put his name to the brackets and will charge you a large fee to do this.
When you use a bracket fixing that comes off the shelf, it is already approved and tested so there is no need to worry about meeting code and ensuring safety. This means that you are already prepared to make sure that the finished building meets all safety codes. This is very important, because if the glass canopy falls or breaks and injures someone – then the manufacturer is liable.
Which Canopy Fixing Is Right for Your Project?
When it comes to building a glass canopy, it is important to consider all of the factors when choosing the right fixing for the structure. Take your time and look at the options available in order to understand the advantages and limitations of each style.