The TSS Aquatic Centre on the Gold Coast is a high-use school swimming facility that required a structural upgrade to its existing pool shade canopy. Rather than starting from scratch, the brief was to re-engineer and strengthen the existing structure to bring it up to current specifications — specifically to improve its wind load rating and extend its serviceable life.
Vector Shade undertook a complete re-engineering of the framed structure, designing and installing new compression members and rafters to increase the overall wind rating of the canopy. The PVC canopy panels were replaced with Serge Ferrari 502S2 fabric, carrying a 10-year warranty, while the original steel framework by others was retained and integrated with the upgraded structural members. This type of remediation and upgrade work is a testament to Vector Shade’s engineering capability beyond standard new-build commercial shade structures.
The result is a dramatically improved structure that now meets current wind loading standards, providing the school and its students with a canopy they can rely on in Queensland’s storm season. The aquatic centre’s pool area benefits from generous coverage across multiple curved canopy spans — keeping swimmers, coaches, and spectators protected from the sun during training sessions and competitions throughout the year.
If you have an existing shade structure that needs engineering assessment, upgrade, or replacement canopy fabric, Vector Shade can help. Contact our team to discuss your requirements.