Chemically inert PTFE fiberglass architectural membranes can tolerate climatic conditions ranging well outside the most extreme environments on earth and carry expected design lifespans of more than 30 years. Photo: Big Span Structures.

Big Span Structures LLC, a provider of concept-to-completion solutions for signature lightweight tensile membrane structures, has completed a new tensile membrane shading structure on the top deck of the parking garage of the Care Resource Community Health Centers facility in Midtown Miami, Fla. 

The tensioned membrane structure features approximately 13,500 square feet of PTFE-coated mesh membrane with an aluminum support framing system. The principal element that differentiates PTFE fiberglass membrane from conventional glazing is its advantageous shading coefficient, according to a press release from Summerfield, Fla.-based Big Span. As lighting levels increase, even cooler climates can realize overall energy savings using PTFE membrane. In very warm climates, even low lighting levels make PTFE fiberglass membrane an energy saver versus conventional systems. 

Big Span worked with David Scott Parker Architects and KVC Constructors to complete work on the 55,000-square-foot, seven-story mixed-use medical office and parking garage facility. 

“The Care Resource Parking Garage project was a long process, but I’m very grateful for the Big Span team’s guidance in making our design vision a reality,” said LeeAnn Sendra, senior managing architect, David Scott Parker Architects. “It is a wonderful structure that will serve as a signature feature of the Miami skyline for years to come.” 

“The quality of work is outstanding; the appearance has surpassed all expectations and the feedback has been very positive,” added Vick Crespin, vice president, KVC Constructors.

PTFE membranes consist of a woven fiberglass fabric, coated with Teflon®, making it Class “A” 100 percent noncombustible (as certified by ASTM). It is extremely durable and weather resistant with self-cleaning properties superior to those of most other structural materials. The mesh construction allows for more lighting to enter the space and allows air to circulate through the fabric. 



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