Author: alex

n my years of experience in the marquee hire business, I’ve set up marquees over swimming pools, sunken gardens, flowerbeds, ponds, rockeries, trees, statues—basically, if it’s in a garden, we’ve probably covered it. The end result can be visually stunning, but the process of working around these obstacles can be challenging. Here are a few things to keep in mind when incorporating parts of a garden into a marquee:

Key Considerations:

1. Allow Extra Time for Setup
   Working around trees, ponds, or other garden features takes longer, so always plan for more time when setting up the marquee.
2. Offer to Trim Trees
   If a tree needs trimming to fit inside the marquee, offer to do this during setup. This ensures only the minimum amount is cut, preventing any unnecessary trimming that could upset your client (trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way!).
3. Cover Pools and Ponds Completely
   Ensure that any pools or ponds are fully covered by one marquee, with enough space to walk around them safely.
4. Incorporating Hedges and Walls
   Hedges and walls can be partially incorporated into the marquee, but this might mean cutting a wall panel to fit around them. Keep any old or marked side panels on hand for these situations, or reach out to us—we often have marked walls available at a discount.
5. Plan Ahead or Ask for Advice
   If you’re unsure how to position the marquee around obstacles, it’s best to plan on-site. If you’re still stuck, take some photos and email them to us for advice—we’re happy to guide you on the best approach.
6. Incorporate Existing Plants as Features
   People often spend a lot of money hiring small trees or plants to decorate marquees, but incorporating existing plants, especially with fairy lights, can add a stunning natural feature. This can be a great selling point to offer your clients.
7. Adjust Capacity for Obstacles
   Keep in mind that incorporating trees, statues, or other garden elements into the marquee will reduce the available floor space. Make sure to adjust the guest capacity accordingly.

Best Practices for Erecting Over Obstacles

When setting up a marquee over an obstacle, the best approach is to partially erect the structure first. For example, if you’re putting up a 6x12m marquee and there’s a small tree at one end, start by erecting most of the marquee—say 6x10m—leaving the section over the tree off completely.

Here’s the critical part: Make sure the roof is attached to as much of the framework as possible before adding that final bay. Once you’re ready to finish, with tall steps in place, simply pull the PVC roof along the last bay to fit it.

What you want to avoid is trying to lift and fit the PVC roof onto a fully erected framework. It’s a tough and heavy job that’s best avoided!

Thanks for reading,
Spencer

This might seem like a quick question to answer with a simple “no,” but it’s actually something I’m often asked by people starting a marquee hire business. The confusion is understandable, so let’s dive in and explain things in more detail.

A marquee is constructed from different A-frames:

• End A-frames (where all the joints are 3-way)
• Middle A-frames (where all the joints are 4-way)

If you plan to mix and match your marquee inventory, rather than keeping them as individual marquees, it’s essential to consider how many A-frames (and roofs) you’ll need for each job. Here’s a breakdown:

• A 6x12m DIY Marquee requires 2 end A-frames and 5 middle A-frames.
• A 6x8m DIY Marquee requires 2 end A-frames and 3 middle A-frames.
• A 6x6m DIY Marquee requires 2 end A-frames and 2 middle A-frames.

From this, it’s clear why you can’t simply split one 6x12m marquee into two 6x6m marquees—or combine two 6x6m marquees to make a 6x12m. The number of middle A-frames required just won’t line up.

A Smart Way to Start

In my experience, a good way to launch a marquee hire business is to invest in:

• One 6x6m marquee
• One 6x8m marquee
• A 6x12m roof

Why? With a 6x6m and 6x8m, you’ll have enough framework to assemble a 6x12m marquee as well. This gives you the flexibility to offer three different sizes, increasing your chances of getting more bookings.

Flexible Buying Options

If you buy a 6x12m PVC roof (as in the example above) but later find that you’re so busy you need a 6x6m, 6x8m, and 6x12m all booked for the same weekend, we’ve got you covered. We’ll sell you the rest of the 6x12m marquee (frame and sides) at the same price as if you’d bought the full set from the beginning, ensuring you won’t be out of pocket.

Thanks for reading!

— Spencer

When it comes to covering marquees, there are various materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

Canvas

Pros:

• Essential for traditional marquees
• Thick, tough material
• Highly resistant to tearing

Cons:

• Becomes problematic when wet
• Flame retardancy (F/R) issues

Although I don’t specialize in canvas marquee covers, sourcing flame-retardant canvas has been challenging. Despite that, canvas has been used for centuries across the globe due to its durability and strength. The main drawbacks are that it becomes much heavier when wet and can rot if left damp for extended periods.

PE (Polyethylene)

Pros:

• Very affordable

Cons:

• Short lifespan
• Creases easily
• Noisy in windy conditions
• Limited availability of flame-retardant options

PE is the entry-level material for marquees and is similar to tarpaulins and groundsheets. While it’s cheap and waterproof, it lacks durability and won’t last long. Flame-retardant PE is also hard to find.

Poly/PVC (Polyester with PVC Coating)

Pros:

• Affordable
• More durable than PE

Cons:

• Not as durable as full PVC

Poly/PVC is a step up from PE, offering better durability. You’re more likely to be able to reuse a Poly/PVC marquee compared to a PE one, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Pros:

• Highly durable

Cons:

• Can be challenging to clean
• Prone to stretching over time

PVC is far superior to PE and Poly/PVC in terms of durability, ensuring that your marquee remains waterproof for longer. However, without a laminate coating, it can be tough to clean and restore to its original condition.

Ripstop PVC with Laminate Coating

Pros:

• Extremely durable and easy to clean
• Excellent at holding eyelets
• Superior resistance to ripping

Cons:

• More expensive

This material is used in professional-grade marquees, especially for larger structures between 9 to 30 meters wide. Typically, you’ll find 500-700gsm fabric, but some use 800-900gsm with a blackout layer, especially in hotter climates. The core consists of a polyester (terylene) mesh with every 10th thread reinforced to resist tearing. The laminate coating makes cleaning easier and helps the fabric retain a “like-new” appearance, though it also adds to the cost.

At our company, we use 500gsm (Commercial range) and 650gsm (Deluxe range) ripstop PVC with a laminate coating. While we could lower costs by using PE, Poly/PVC, or standard PVC, our focus on quality ensures we deliver reliable, long-lasting marquees. In our opinion, laminate-coated ripstop PVC is the best material available, which is why we use it.

Thanks for reading,
Spencer

There’s a common misconception that leaving the sides of a marquee off makes it more wind-resistant because it allows the wind to “pass through.” However, this idea is incorrect. In fact, leaving the sides off makes the marquee far more vulnerable to wind damage. Let me explain why keeping the sides on is the safer option when facing strong winds.

Wind and Marquee Dynamics

As illustrated in the diagram, when wind hits a marquee with its sides on, it flows over and around the structure. Any wind that does enter the marquee collects underneath the roof and causes upward pressure, potentially lifting the roof. The best way to prevent this is to ensure the sides of the marquee, particularly those facing the wind, are in place and the marquee is securely anchored to the ground.

It’s important to note that this advice applies to strong winds but not extreme weather conditions. Marquees should never be left up in dangerous weather.

The False Logic of Removing the Sides

Those who suggest removing the side panels in strong winds believe it will allow the wind to pass through harmlessly. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Two major factors come into play when the sides are left off:

1. Wind Still Accumulates Under the Roof: Even with the sides removed, wind will continue to gather beneath the roof. Think of it like carrying an umbrella in a windy field—the wind will still catch the umbrella and push it upwards. In this scenario, your marquee is essentially a giant umbrella.
2. Lift Created by Wind Passing Through: As wind flows over or through the marquee, a lifting effect is generated. This is similar to the way lift is created by an airplane wing. The wind traveling over the top of the marquee moves faster than the wind below, creating a pressure difference that results in lift. While a marquee roof isn’t shaped like an airplane wing, it still experiences lift, and the steeper the roof, the greater the force. This is especially true for marquees with steeper roofs, like those with a 20-degree slope and 3-meter apex, as we discussed previously.

Best Practices for Marquee Safety

This article isn’t meant to alarm anyone but to clear up the misunderstanding about leaving sides off marquees in windy conditions. At DIY Marquees, we always encourage best practices for marquee hire companies. Here are a few key recommendations:

• Anchor your marquee securely: Use tie-down kits as a minimum standard.
• Keep the sides on: Especially on the side facing the wind. Place the entrance on a different side, if possible.
• Never remove all the sides during strong winds: Doing so makes the structure far more vulnerable.
• Understand your marquee’s limitations: If extreme weather is forecast, like a hurricane, the marquee should come down. Fortunately, these situations are rare.

Thank you for reading, and as always, we welcome any feedback.

— Spencer

Erecting DIY Marquees on Hard Standing: A Quick Guide

Our DIY Marquees, like most commercial-quality structures, can be set up on hard surfaces without much trouble. The main challenge is anchoring the marquee down securely, which can be done in a few ways:

1. Use longer tie-downs to reach a nearby soft surface.
2. Bolt the marquee directly into the hard standing.
3. Use heavy weights to secure the structure.

Important Consideration: Rainwater Flow

While setting up a marquee on hard standing is straightforward, there’s one issue to be mindful of—rainwater. If the area typically floods during heavy rain, a marquee won’t stop that from happening. Similarly, if the ground is sloped, water might flow through the marquee.

Though this risk is generally minimal, it’s still worth mentioning to your customer without causing unnecessary alarm. If there’s concern about heavy rain in the forecast, there are several solutions to prevent water from entering the marquee:

Solutions for Rainwater Issues:

1. Wooden Flooring Throughout:
   • This is the best solution, as it raises the floor off the ground, allowing water to pass underneath without affecting the event. However, it’s also the most expensive and labor-intensive option.
2. Sandbags Around the Perimeter:
   • Placing sandbags or similar barriers around the edges of the marquee can help prevent water from flowing inside.
3. Carpet Strips Under the Groundbars:
   • A clever, resourceful idea suggested by a marquee hire company involves placing rolled-up strips of old carpet underneath the groundbars. This helps to block water from entering the marquee, except in cases of torrential rain.

These options offer various levels of protection, depending on the severity of the weather and your budget.

Thanks for reading,
Spencer

For more advice on setting up a marquee for your event, feel free to contact us with details about your site and event requirements. We’re happy to help!

If you’d like to use or quote any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.

Reality Check: Powder Coated vs. Galvanised Marquee Framework

In the marquee sales industry, some companies make exaggerated or misleading claims, such as likening PE material to bulletproof vests or making blanket statements like “don’t believe anyone who tells you different” without providing any evidence. At DIY Marquees, we believe in a positive and evidence-based approach to marketing and product design. As part of our ongoing “Reality Check” series, we are highlighting the pros and cons of different marquee components, starting with marquee frameworks.

Powder Coated Marquee Frames

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Powder coating is cheaper to produce.
• Colour Options: Offers flexibility in choosing different colours for the frame.
• Common in Party Tents: Often found in party tents where aesthetics might be prioritized.

Disadvantages:

• Durability: Powder coating is more susceptible to scratches and chips, which can compromise the protective layer and lead to rust spreading underneath the coating.
• Maintenance: Once damaged, it is harder to repair than galvanised frames.

Galvanised Marquee Frames

Advantages:

• Durability: More resilient and longer-lasting than powder-coated frames, particularly in commercial use.
• Scratch-Resistant: A scratch or chip does not compromise the entire surface, unlike powder-coated frames, since the galvanising process protects the steel even when the surface is damaged.
• Easier to Maintain: Simple to repair and maintain.
• Industry Standard: Galvanised frames are used in all 9m+ wide commercial marquees for their strength and reliability.

Disadvantages:

• Higher Initial Cost: Galvanising is generally more expensive to produce.
• Limited Colour Options: Unlike powder-coated frames, galvanised frames do not offer custom colour options.

Environmental Impact:

Some companies claim one method is more environmentally friendly than the other. The truth is, neither method is particularly eco-friendly. At Portland Marquees, we have adopted a more environmentally responsible galvanising process in recent years and continue to seek even better solutions.

There are also unfounded claims by some that one method of coating is “acidic” or harmful to users. This is simply untrue. Powder coating is commonly used in carports worldwide, and galvanising is the standard for scaffolding and large industrial marquees. Both processes are safe and widely accepted across various industries.

To further illustrate this, at the Showman’s Show (the UK’s premier trade show for the marquee hire industry), nearly all companies use galvanised steel or a combination of galvanised steel and aluminium for their marquee frameworks, not powder-coated steel. This is a testament to galvanised steel being more suited for professional use.

We’re happy to offer more detailed, customised advice for your event. Feel free to contact us with information about your event type, available space, guest numbers, and site diagrams or photographs for tailored recommendations.

If you’d like to quote or use any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.

Reality Check: Breathable vs. Non-Breathable Marquee Floors

In the marquee industry, some companies make bold claims that might not always be backed by evidence, such as comparing PE material to bulletproof vests or dismissing alternative views without justification. At DIY Marquees, we prioritize a transparent, evidence-based approach to marquee design and marketing. Our “Reality Check” series aims to clarify these issues by examining the pros and cons of different marquee floor options.

Breathable Marquee Floors

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Typically cheaper to produce.
• Grass Preservation: Slows the yellowing of grass underneath the floor.

Disadvantages:

• Condensation: Can lead to excessive condensation inside the marquee.
• Mud Penetration: Does not prevent mud from seeping through the floor.
• Finish Quality: Generally offers a less refined finish compared to other options.

Breathable floors are often made from plastic grid matting, originally designed for caravan awnings to allow for repeated use of grass pitches without significant damage.

Non-Breathable Marquee Floors

Advantages:

• Condensation Control: Prevents excessive condensation by blocking water vapor from the grass.
• Mud Protection: Stops mud from coming up through the floor.
• Superior Finish: Provides a more polished and professional appearance.
• Industry Standard: Preferred by most marquee hire professionals.

Non-breathable floors typically include a layer of polythene or groundsheet underlay with a top surface of carpet, coconut matting, or wooden flooring. This layer prevents the grass’s moisture from affecting the interior of the marquee, ensuring a more durable and high-quality finish.

Recommendation: Breathable flooring can be a suitable option for casual events or temporary setups like gazebos. However, for a more professional look and better performance, particularly if you’re emulating high standards seen in marquee hire professionals, non-breathable flooring with a high-quality top surface is recommended.

We’re here to provide tailored advice for your event. Contact us with details about your event type, available space, number of guests, and any site diagrams or photos for personalized recommendations.

If you’d like to use or quote any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.

Sometimes the claims of some companies in the marquee sales industry go beyond honest marketing with outlandish statReality Check: Understanding Marquee Heights and Design

At DIY Marquees, we believe in a transparent and evidence-based approach to marquee design, rather than relying on exaggerated claims or unfounded comparisons. In our “Reality Check” series, we aim to provide clear insights into marquee design choices, helping you make informed decisions.

Comparing 3.7m vs. 3m Marquee Heights

When choosing between a 3.7m and a 3m marquee height, especially for a 6m wide marquee with approximately 2m eave/leg height, here’s what you need to know:

Advantages of a 3.7m High Marquee:

• Increased Headroom: Provides more space for taller individuals, enhancing comfort.
• Cost-Effective Production: Generally cheaper to produce due to simpler design.

Advantages of a 3m High Marquee:

• Wind-Resistance: Features a 20-degree roof angle, which is more effective at handling wind. This is a standard practice in commercial marquees.
• Industry Standard: Widely used in professional and commercial settings due to its proven durability.

Why Opt for a 3m High Marquee?

For better wind resistance and overall stability, a marquee with a 3m height and a 20-degree roof angle is preferable. If additional headroom is needed, consider increasing the eave height (like our 2.3m eave height Deluxe DIY Marquees) rather than opting for a steeper roof angle. Higher eaves with proper bracing can offer better wind resistance compared to simply increasing the marquee height.

Industry Insight:

Nearly all marquees over 9m in width use a 20-degree roof angle. If you’re evaluating marquee designs, inquire about the roof angle for larger structures. This can help you assess the strength and durability of the marquee design.

Be cautious of higher marquees with potential shortcuts, such as carport-style roofs or less durable materials. These may compromise the overall quality and performance of the marquee.

We’re here to offer tailored advice for your event. Contact us with details about your event type, available space, number of guests, and any site diagrams or photos for personalized recommendations.

If you’d like to use or quote any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.

Why Choose an Envelope-Style Roof marquees

Our Portland Marquee ranges feature an envelope-style roof, which offers superior strength and flexibility compared to the carport style roof.

Advantages of the Envelope-Style Roof

1. Enhanced Strength and Structural Integrity: By integrating the gable into the roof design, the envelope-style roof forms a consistent angle that reinforces the marquee’s structure. This configuration creates an additional brace at each end, effectively distributing tension and enhancing stability.
2. Greater Flexibility: The envelope roof design extends to the eave height, allowing for interchangeable side panels. This adaptability ensures that you can easily customize the marquee’s appearance and functionality.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: The envelope-style roof is often seen as more attractive than the carport style. Unlike a simple tarpaulin, it provides a sleek, cohesive look that enhances the overall appearance of your event space.
4. Cost Consideration: While the envelope-style roof is more expensive to manufacture, we believe the benefits in durability, flexibility, and aesthetics justify the slightly higher production cost.

For personalized advice on selecting the right marquee for your event, please contact us with details such as the type of event, available space, number of guests, and any diagrams or photos of the site. We’re here to help you make the best choice.

If you wish to use or quote any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.

Understanding Marquee Roof Angles and Their Impact on Durability

Most large commercial marquees are designed with a 20-degree roof pitch. This design ensures that a 6m wide marquee has a 1m rise, resulting in a 3m apex height with 2m legs, or a 3.3m apex height with 2.3m legs. For 9m wide structures, the rise is 1.5m, leading to a 3.8m apex height with 2.3m legs.

Why Choose a 20-Degree Roof Angle?

Although a 20-degree roof pitch is slightly more expensive to manufacture compared to a 30-degree pitch, it offers superior wind resistance. As the roof angle increases, so does the height of the ridge. This results in a larger roof surface area and exponentially greater forces that the roof must endure. Specifically, if the roof height doubles, the forces it must withstand increase fourfold.

Benefits of a Lower Apex Height

A lower apex height improves wind resistance. Given the UK’s frequent rain and wind, the 20-degree pitch has been proven over years of experience to be the most durable and effective in handling these weather conditions.

For Smaller Structures

Smaller marquees, such as those 3m or 4m wide, can manage a 30-degree roof angle more effectively, especially when additional roof braces are incorporated to enhance structural strength.

For tailored advice on your event, please contact us with details including the type of event, available space, number of guests, and any diagrams or photos of the site. We’re here to help you select the best solution.

To use or quote any part of this article, please contact us for permission or licensing.