Popular Canopy Types

Because canopies are so versatile, they can be used in place of almost any project that needs protection from the elements. Canopies are a great economical option because they only require concrete piers rather than a full slab, which can be a huge advantage for lower-budget projects. They can also be as simple or complex as required by your intended use. Here’s an idea of the types of canopies you may have come across:

  • Canopy Tents
  • Tube Buildings
  • Wood Buildings
  • I-Beam Buildings

Each of the type of canopy building listed above has appropriate applications as well as advantages and disadvantages, shown below:

I-Beam Canopy Building vs Tube Canopy Structure

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • CheckmarkLowest price point
  • CheckmarkCan be assembled by anyone

Disadvantages

  • CheckmarkDurability
  • CheckmarkVersatility

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • CheckmarkAffordability
  • CheckmarkCan protect a vehicle

Disadvantages

  • CheckmarkStorms can easily damage
  • CheckmarkLimited on size

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • CheckmarkStronger than tube canopies
  • CheckmarkCan be larger than tube buildings

Disadvantages

  • CheckmarkHigh price point
  • CheckmarkNot as durable as steel

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • CheckmarkCan be any size
  • CheckmarkDurability

Disadvantages

  • CheckmarkHarder to assemble than tube
  • CheckmarkCan be higher price point
Which is the Best Option?

If you’re looking for a bit of covered space in your backyard or if you’re looking to protect a vehicle from the elements in an area without harsh weather, a tent canopy or tube building may be the best choice – especially if price is a key factor.

If you require a more durable space, then you should consider metal canopy buildings. Steel building kits have grown in popularity compared to wooden buildings because of the clear advantages that pre-engineered steel buildings provide over their wood counterparts. In brief, wooden buildings have quickly gained a reputation for failing in severe storms whereas metal buildings have become known for their extreme durability. For more information on this comparison, this pole barns vs steel buildings article takes a more in depth look at these types of buildings side by side.

Deeper Look at I-Beam Metal Canopy Buildings

There are a multitude of reasons to choose a steel canopy building other than the specific advantages and disadvantages outlined above. One of the biggest considerations is what you will do with the open space. Some choose to leave it open just for the sake of having the walls open to the surrounding environment and others choose to leave the walls open in order to create a different type of wall while still benefiting from the I-beam construction.

Canopy Loaded for Crane

A More Secure Steel Building

For example, some developers of warehousing districts will choose to purchase a canopy building with the intent of building cinder block or concrete walls from the foundation to the roof. This is usually because these developers must provide a more secure structure from vandalism and robberies in a secluded warehousing park. You may think at first that a steel building should be great for this type of application, but the sidewalls can be cut through relatively easily while block or concrete walls are much more difficult to enter. It should also be noted that a steel building will still inherit the characteristics that allow it to stand up to some of mother nature’s most vicious storms because the building is still loaded to do so. On the other hand, loading a building for this type of durability typically costs more than a building with metal sidewalls because it must be loaded for an updraft of wind.

General Steel Canopies

The General Steel canopy building featured above was built in New Jersey for a transportation company who needed to protect its fleet of vehicles from New Jersey’s hot summer sun and harsh winter conditions. Below is additional project information:

Canopy Features

  • All red iron steel beam construction
  • No interior columns
Metal Canopies for Fleet Storage

Business Fleet Storage Canopy

Canopy Size 35 x 80 x 20
Trim Color Classic Green
Location Elizabeth, NJ
Canopy Use Fleet Storage

More Popular Canopy Applications

Looking for more project inspiration? Listed below are additional ways to use a steel canopy for your home or business:

Outdoor Sports Coverage

Many parks, residences, and churches nationwide choose General Steel canopies to cover their existing tennis courts, basketball courts, and batting cages. The durability of our product in combination with it’s sleek appearance is a hit with our customers.

Batting Cage Canopy Building

Hay Storage for Farmers

Ran out of room in your barn? When a fully enclosed storage building is unnecessary and unaffordable for something as simple as hay storage, a steel canopy is the perfect solution. It offers the necessary protection from the elements at an affordable price.

Hay Storage Canopy
Leanto

Canopies can also be attached to any existing or new building in the form of a Lean To. This is a very popular and economical way to add additional coverage and protect utilities, vehicles, equipment. Another option is to add a covered parking space, or a steel carport, for your cars, RVs, boats, etc.

Leanto Canopy Attached to Metal Building
Gas Stations

A General Steel Canopy is ideal for Gas Stations. It is a non-combustible way to cover your pumps and protect your customers from rain, snow, and the beating sun. Your customers will thank you for this! Conveniently, we can also provide you with a cost-effective convenience store.

Ready to Design Your Building?
Use Our 3D Designer Request Your Quote.

Bring your project to life with our 3D Building Designer. Already know your size? Get a quick quote (3 easy steps) with our Price Your Building Online form. Prefer a person? Call us now for immediate assistance with your project.

3D Building Designer