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FACILITIES GUIDE | JUNE 2020
Fabric frame structures
Fabric frame structures are particularly useful if
courts need to be covered all year round. Fabric
frame structures are more expensive to install
than air structures, but will offer savings in the
long term by virtue of their superior insulation.
Fabric frame structures comprise a steel,
aluminium or wood framework, with a fabric
similar to the fabric used on air structures, stretched tightly over the framework. An inner lining is
often used in places where the climate is variable, to help retain the heat in winter and resist it in
the summer months. The structures have sloped walls, as they need to be able to cope with modest
snow loads and high winds.
Fabric frame structures are modular and usually cover between one and four courts. However,
they can be designed to cover as many courts as necessary.
This type of structure is very effective in extremely hot climates. They provide two major benefits,
firstly the keep the intense sun off the court during the daytime and secondly a retractable roof can
be used to ventilate the courts as an alternative to an air conditioning system.
Fabric frame structures have a longer lifespan than air structures. The fabric usually lasts for 15-20
years with the framework lasting up to 40 years.
