Canopy Material

What is galvanized steel? Our galvanized steel products have a zinc coating, which prevents corrosive elements such as water and salt from coming into contact with the steel, generally eliminating the possibility of rust. When steel is galvanized, it is coated with rust resistant zinc. First, the surface of the steel is cleaned by friction with diluted acid in order to remove all dirt, grease, and oxides, because the zinc coating will not bond unless the steel is clean. Then, it is commonly dipped in a hot, molten bath of zinc. This zinc coating is metallurgically bonded to the steel's surface and protects the steel from the environment, extending the life of the steel to at least 25 years in urban locations and at least 50 years in rural locations. Even if the surface is damaged or scratched, the surrounding zinc will continue to protect the steel with cathodic protection, provided the coating lasts. Cathodic protection means that the zinc coating will sacrifice itself to deterioration before the steel is affected.

What is a powder-coated steel finish?
Some canopy and canopy carport frames come with a weather-resistant powder coating. It looks great, is tough, and resists scratching. Powder coating is a dry finishing process. Finely ground particles of pigment and resin are electrically charged and sprayed onto the products to be coated. The parts that are to be coated are electrically grounded so that the charged particles adhere to them until melted and fused into a solid coating, in a curing oven.

The result is one of the most durable protective coatings and a high grade architectural finish for steel items.

What is polyethylene material?
Polyethylene is a plastic material sent through a chemical process. It is commonly used for containers, kitchenware and tubing. Polyethylene material protects from harmful ultraviolet rays and is water resistant. This material is also 100% rot proof and will not support mold, mildew, fungal, or bacterial growth. The end result is similar to a common tarp.

What does the gauge of the frame mean?
The gauge of our steel frames will tell you how sturdy the frame will be in certain conditions. The smaller the gauge of the steel tube, the thicker the poles, and the sturdier the product will be.