Investing in printed marquees is a great way to amplify your brand’s presence at events, but taking care of these assets is essential to ensure longevity. Whether you use them for trade shows, outdoor festivals, or weddings, keeping your custom printed marquees in top condition will help maximise their lifespan and ensure your brand continues to shine in every setting. This blog will explore actionable tips to effectively care for your branded marquees.
Understanding the Importance of Maintenance
Every printed marquee you purchase is an investment. Exposure to the elements—sun, rain, wind, and dirt—can quickly degrade the marquee’s fabric, structure, and visual appeal. Regular maintenance ensures that your branded marquee stays pristine, represents your brand well, and functions optimally during events. Additionally, when properly maintained, custom printed marquees will serve you for years, maximising your return on investment.
Cleanliness is Key: Regular Cleaning Routines
Cleaning the Fabric
Dirt and grime are inevitable when using printed marquees at outdoor events, but with proper cleaning, you can prevent damage and ensure your marquee looks as good as new after every use.
- Use gentle cleaning agents: Always use mild soap and warm water when cleaning the canopy. Harsh chemicals can damage both the fabric and print.
- Thoroughly rinse: After cleaning, rinse the marquee fabric with clean water to remove all soap residues. This ensures the fabric retains its durability without any leftover chemical traces that could weaken it.
- Air dry completely: Ensure the marquee is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can cause mildew and mould growth, which will not only affect the fabric but also create an unpleasant smell.
- Avoid pressure washers: While tempting, using a pressure washer can damage your custom printed marquees’ print and fabric. Stick to gentle hand-washing techniques.
Cleaning the Frame
The frame of your branded marquee is just as crucial as the fabric. Aluminium or steel frames are standard and durable but still require regular attention.
- Wipe down after every event: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame after each use. This removes dirt and prevents rust, especially if the frame is exposed to moisture.
- Inspect for damages: Regularly check for dents, rust, or loose screws. Addressing these issues promptly will prevent bigger problems and keep your frame sturdy for years.
Storage Tips to Protect Your Investment
Keep It Dry and Cool
Moisture is the enemy of your printed marquees. Always store them in a dry, ventilated space to prevent mould growth. Ensure the fabric is fully dry before folding and packing the marquee. If moisture is left on the fabric, it can create mildew, which weakens the material over time.
Store in a Bag
Most marquees for sale come with storage bags designed to protect them from dust, dirt, and accidental damage. Use these bags to keep your marquee safe when not in use. If you don’t have one, investing in a high-quality storage bag can save your marquee from unnecessary wear.
Protect from Sunlight
Constant exposure to sunlight can fade the vibrant colours of your custom printed marquee. Please keep it in a shaded or dark space to prevent fading and maintain the colour vibrancy when unused.
Regular Inspections: Prevent Issues Before They Happen
Prevention is always better than repair. Conducting regular inspections of your branded marquee after each use will help you catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.
What to Look for:
- Tears in fabric: Even the tiniest tear in your printed marquee can expand over time. Inspect the fabric closely for rips, loose stitching, or any signs of wear.
- Fading prints: Over time, exposure to the sun and weather can cause the printed design to fade. If your custom printed marquee begins to look dull, it may be time to consider reinforcing the print or investing in a new design.
- Frame condition: Check for bent poles, loose screws, and rust. A compromised frame can lead to structural issues during events, affecting the stability of your marquee and being a safety hazard.
Weather Protection: Defend Your Marquee from The Elements
Sun Protection
Extended exposure to harsh sunlight can cause fading and fabric damage. To prevent this, consider using UV protectant sprays that shield the fabric from harmful rays and help retain the vibrant colours of your custom printed marquee.
Rain and Wind Protection
While branded marquees are designed to be weather-resistant, heavy rain can still cause water to pool on the roof, eventually weakening the fabric. To ensure proper water drainage, slightly tilt the roof or use support beams that allow water to run off.
Securing your marquee using weight bags, ropes, and stakes is essential in windy conditions. If you expect extreme weather, dismantling the marquee is always the safest option.
Repair and Replacement: Knowing When to Fix or Upgrade
Even with the best care, your printed marquees may eventually need repairs. Knowing when to make minor fixes versus when to replace parts is vital to ensuring that your structure remains functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Minor Repairs
For small tears or loose stitching, DIY repair kits are often sufficient. These widely available kits can help you quickly patch up your custom-printed marquee. Similarly, bent poles can frequently be straightened and loose screws tightened with the right tools.
When to Replace
If your marquee has extensive damage—such as large rips, significant fading, or a severely bent frame—it may be time to consider replacement. Invest in high-quality materials that will last longer and better withstand the elements when exploring new marquees for sale.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Marquee Pays Off
Your printed marquee is more than just a shelter—it represents your brand at every event, festival, or gathering. Ensuring that it stays in excellent condition is not just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring it functions correctly, protects your products, and serves as a lasting marketing tool.
By following proper cleaning routines, storing the marquee correctly, conducting regular inspections, and protecting it from the elements, you can ensure that your branded marquee stays functional and visually appealing for years.