As a prominent provider of school canopies in the UK, Kensington Systems takes pride in assisting customers and addressing their inquiries. In light of this, we have compiled a list of commonly asked questions to provide valuable insight and guidance.
How can we use a school canopy?
One of the best things about the structures we make for schools is their versatility. These models have myriad uses, and so they are multi-purpose. They can be used as an outdoor dining area, covered walkway, playground shelter, al fresco learning space, for bike storage or as an area where parents can wait for their children if it’s wet.
Can we use our canopies all year round?
The simple response to this question is that, yes, you can. However, you’ll need to make sure you choose an all weather design i.e. one with fixed side panels or retractable blinds. Let us know if this is something you’d like us to incorporate into your structure. We can help you to identify the right solution for your needs.
Will we need planning permission before fitting our school canopy?
We’ve written about this subject in more detail here. We get asked this often, and the simple answer is – it depends. Things have certainly become easier since 2015, when planning regulations changed. This has meant that a number of developments which might previously have required full planning consent no longer need it (including, potentially, canopies for schools). Talk to us and your local council before construction begins, since each project is different.
It's also worth remembering that if you want to install side walls over more than 50% of the canopy (for example if it's a dining canopy) then you might need to apply for building regulations.
Can we fit a canopy straight on to the tarmac at our school?
Unfortunately, no, you can’t. You need to mount these structures securely in concrete foundations so that they remain safe. Obviously, we at Kensington Systems are experienced in this side of things, and the groundworks are included in the quote we’ll give you.
Groundworks don’t just include the concrete foundations. We can also install tarmac, block paving, artificial turf or rubber crumb surfacing as part of the project. Works are carried out by our professional subcontractors to a high standard.
Can we fit these facilities during the school holidays?
The short answer is that, yes, we can certainly do that. However, as you can imagine, school holidays tend to be among our busiest times of year, especially outside the wetter winter months. That means we’d ask you to book holiday periods well in advance, otherwise you may have to wait longer for your canopy. When you place your order, we’ll give you a realistic lead time and let you know when to expect completion.
While many schools do prefer their installation to take place during holidays, bear in mind that canopies can be installed during term time with very minimal disruption to the life of your school, and with no compromise to the safety of anyone on the premises.
How much will it cost to fit a school canopy?
This will depend on a number of variable factors, including design, size and the materials which have been used. Talk to us about your project and what exactly it is you want and we’ll be able to give you a much better idea of price.
Can we retrofit solar panels on our canopy?
If your canopy is a Spaceshade canopy installed by us previously, there's a good chance we may be able to retrofit solar panels on top. However canopies from other manufacturers are not designed to support the significant loadings that solar panels impose, and would very likely not be suitable.
It's perfectly feasible to install a canopy first, and then retrofit solar panels as budgets allow.
What’s the next step?
If you think you’d like to take plans for a stage further, get in touch. One of our specialist surveyors will be aim to be with you on site within five days. And then we’ll follow that up with detailed plans plus a no-obligation quote, so you’ll know exactly what your structure will look like, and how much it will cost.
Kensington Systems has been fitting canopies for schools for decades, providing exceptional service and innovative, high-quality end products. Talk to us about what we could do for your school.
