Membrane carportsClassic membrane shelters→
Solar carportsParking meets green energy→
Landscape canopiesParks and leisure spaces→
Grandstand canopiesSports venue shelters→
Inflatable play cloudsFamily play areas→
Wastewater coversEnvironmental infrastructure→
Fuel station canopiesStation shelters→
Entrance canopiesWalkways and entrances→ETFE membrane structures: single-layer foil and cushion systems
ETFE is a thin foil used in building envelopes. First establish whether the project uses tensioned single-layer foil or an air-cushion system. Their frames, supports, thermal behaviour and operating equipment differ; neither can be specified simply as a transparent sheet.
Choose the system during concept design
Single-layer systems require coordination of foil tension and perimeter support. Cushions combine foil layers, edge connections and air pressure, with air supply and monitoring equipment designed for that particular system rather than copied from another building.
Transparency does not resolve thermal comfort
Assess daylight, solar gain, indoor temperature and glare together. Printed shading, the number of layers and additional shading devices affect performance. Foil light-transmission data alone does not establish comfort or energy savings for the whole space.
Handover and maintenance must cover the complete system
Check frame fixings, waterproof edges, pipework and protection during installation as well as the foil itself. Handover documentation should explain inspection, cleaning, local repairs and equipment maintenance. Cushion systems also need defined alarm responses and equipment-failure procedures.
