ClearSpan CL108544 User manual

1
CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
38'-0" Width
Center to Center
16'-1 3/4"
Height
this document before you begin
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Drawn By Creation Date
Shelter Description
Shelter Sku Number
Design Approval
Manger Approval
Engineering Approval
CL108544
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Dimensions
Last Revision Date
38' x 56' Economy Building
N/A
Only Applicable Pages AreIncluded
A
B
D
E
F
G
H
Title
Front Profile
Side Profile
Connection Call-Out
Connection Details
Rafter Pipe Details
3/17/2009
Cover and End Panel Details
N/A
Width (Center - Center)
Sidewall Height
Rafter Spacing
Length (Center - Center)
Rafter Tubing
Cover Conduit Tubing
Height (Ground - Peak)
Purlin Tubing & # of Runs
Cover Info
End Wall Door
End Wall Tubing
End Panel Info
CONTENT GUIDE
N/A
1.66'' Round
12.5oz
Shelter Information
construction.
C
38'-0"
16'-1 3/4"
56'-0'
N/A
8'-0"
4.00'' Round
1.66'' Purlin, 5 Runs Important: Read the instruction
manual and the additional
comments on the last page of
CL108544
Connection Details
Grid Represents 12" Squares
ISOMETRIC
FRONT
A1-1.0
©2009 ClearSpan™
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction
is prohibited without permission.

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
2Revision date: 09.08.09
YOU MUST READ THIS DOCUMENT BEFORE YOU
BEGIN TO ASSEMBLE THE SHELTER.
Thank you for purchasing this ClearSpan™ shelter. When properly assembled
and maintained, this product will provide years of reliable service. These
instructions include helpful hints and important information needed to safely
assemble and properly maintain the shelter. Please read these instructions
before you begin.
If you have any questions during the assembly, contact Customer Service for
assistance.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Wear eye protection.•
Wear head protection.•
Wear gloves when handling metal tubes.•
Use a portable GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) when working with•
power tools and cords.
Do not climb on the shelter or framing during or after construction.•
Do not occupy the shelter during high winds, tornadoes, or hurricanes.•
Provide adequate ventilation if the structure is enclosed.•
Do not store hazardous materials in the shelter.•
Provide proper ingress and egress to prevent entrapment.•
ANCHORING INSTRUCTIONS
Prior to assembling this shelter, please read the anchoring precautions and
instructions included with the kit. Anchoring instructions are included in the
MUST READ document. You must anchor the building after the frame is
assembled and before the cover is installed.
WARNING: The anchor assembly is an integral part of the shelter
construction. Improper anchoring may cause shelter instability and
failure of the structure. Failing to anchor the shelter properly will void the
manufacturer’s warranty and may cause serious injury and damage.
LOCATION
Choosing the proper location is an important step before you begin to assemble
the structure. Always consult local and regional building codes before you
begin.
The following suggestions and precautions will help you determine whether your
selected location is the best location.
Never erect the structure under power lines.•
Identify whether underground cables and pipes are present• before
preparing the site or anchoring the structure.
Location should be away from structures that could cause snow to drift on•
or around the building.
Do not position the shelter where large loads such as snow and ice, large•
tree branches, or other overhead obstacles could fall.
SITE
After choosing a location, proper preparation of the site is essential. The
following site characteristics will help ensure the integrity of the structure.
A level site is required to properly and safely erect and anchor the frame.•
If the site is not level, use footings to provide a secure base for the•
structure. Pre-cast concrete blocks, pressure-treated wood posts, or poured
footings are all acceptable when properly used.
IMPORTANT: Some soil types and locations may require footings to
properly support and anchor the building. Consult a qualified professional
who is familiar with building similar structures to determine whether a
footing or other foundation is required in your area.
Drainage: Water draining off the structure and from areas surrounding the•
site should drain away from the site to prevent damage to the site, the
structure, and contents of the structure.
WARNING: The individuals assembling this structure are responsible for
designing and furnishing all temporary bracing, shoring and support needed
during the assembly process. For safety reasons, those who are not familiar
with recognized construction methods and techniques must seek the help of
a qualified contractor.

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE
Following the instructions as presented will help ensure the proper assembly of
your shelter. Failing to follow these steps may result in an improperly assembled
and anchored shelter and will void all warranty and protection the owner is
entitled to.
The steps outlining the assembly process are as follows:
Verify that all parts are included in the shipment. Notify Customer Service1.
for questions or concerns.
Read these instructions, the Must Read document, and all additional2.
documentation included with the shipment before you begin assembling the
shelter.
Gather the tools, bracing, ladders (and lifts), and assistants needed to3.
assemble the shelter.
Check the weather4. before you install the roof cover and any panels (if
equipped). Do not install covers or panels on a windy or stormy day.
Re-evaluate the location and site based on the information and precautions5.
presented in the documentation included with the shipment.
Lay out the site (if this has not been completed).6.
Assemble the frame components in the order they are presented in these7.
instructions.
Assemble the frame including the bracing (if equipped).8.
Consult the Must Read document for anchoring comments and instructions.9.
Install, tighten, and secure the end panel (if equipped) and main cover. This10.
applies to fabric covers that stretch over the frame assembly.
Read the care and maintenance information at the end of these instructions.11.
Complete and return all warranty information as instructed.12.
LIST OF WORDS AND PHRASES
Before you begin, it is important to become familiar with the words and phrases
used in this instruction manual. These words and phrases are common to most
ClearSpan™ shelters and identify the different parts of the shelter. (Some are
used in this document. Others may not apply to this particular shelter.) These
terms describe the shipped parts and can also be found on the materials list/
spec sheets included with the shipment. To aid in the assembly, read through
the following definitions before you begin to assemble your shelter.
Conduit:• An assembly of pipes used to secure the main cover and end
panels (if equipped). Purlins and some strut assemblies also consist of
connected pipes to form a conduit. Each pipe joint of a conduit assembly
is secured with a self-tapping Tek screw.
Coupler or Fitting:• A part of the frame assembly where legs, purlins and
rafter pipes are inserted and secured. In most instances, 3-way and 4-way
couplers are used. In some larger applications, couplers are used to secure
the joints of the different rafter sections during the assembly of the rafters.
Some shelters donot use couplers.
Foot, Rafter Foot , or Base Plate:• The part attached to and found at the
base of the rafter or leg of the shelter. Depending on the shelter, the foot
is an optional purchase. Some shelters do not offer an optional foot. Some
use 1-way connectors; others use ground posts.
Must Read Document:• This document includes building and shelter
anchoring instructions, steps for end wall reinforcement, safety precautions,
and notices and warnings. The Must Read document is sent with all
shelters and buildings. If you did not receive a Must Read document,
contact Customer Service to request one.
On-Center:• Term used to describe a measurement taken from the vertical
center of the rafter or frame member to the vertical center of another.
Purlin or Angled (or Lateral) Bracing:• The pipe assemblies that run
perpendicular to the rafters or framework that supports the main cover.
These assemblies are found on the sides and roof areas of the assembled
frame, are evenly spaced, and typically run from the front to the back of the
shelter.
Plain or Straight Pipe:• A term used to describe a pipe that has the same
diameter or width throughout its entire length.
Strut:• A strut is usually a length of pipe with two flattened ends and is used
for diagonal bracing of the shelter frame. A strut is typically secured to the
frame by special brackets, bolts, and/or clamps.
Swaged End or Swaged Pipe:• The term "swaged'' refers to the tapered
end of the pipe or tube. Swaged ends of a pipe can be inserted into
couplers and the straight ends of other pipes of the same diameter.
Tek Screw:• A self-tapping fastener used to secure pipe joints and to fasten
brackets to rafters.

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
4Revision date: 09.08.09
REQUIRED TOOLS
The following list identifies the main tools needed to assemble the shelter.
Additional tools and supports may be needed depending on the structure,
location, and application.
Tape measure or measuring device and marker•
Variable speed drill and impact driver (cordless with extra batteries works•
best)
Wrenches or ratchet and socket set (recommended)•
Scissors or utility knife to cut cover material and strap•
Tool to cut cable to the required length•
Hammers, gloves, and eye protection•
Ladders, work platforms, and other machinery for lifting designed to work•
safely at the height of the shelter
Rope (or straps) for cover installation•
UNPACK AND IDENTIFY PARTS
The following steps will ensure that you have all the necessary parts before you
begin to assemble the shelter.
Unpack the contents of the shipment and place where you can easily1.
inventory the parts. Refer to the Bill of Materials/Spec Sheets.
Verify that all parts listed on the Bill of Materials/Spec Sheets are present.2.
If anything is missing or you have questions, consult the shelter diagrams
throughout these instructions for clarification, or contact Customer Service.
NOTE: At this time, you do not need to open the plastic bags containing the
fasteners (if used).
SHELTER CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Proper care and maintenance of your shelter is important. Check the following
items periodically to properly maintain your shelter:
Inspect the shelter and all components frequently and regularly.•
Regularly check the main cover and panels (if equipped) to see that these•
remain tight and in proper repair.
Check the cable turnbuckles and cable clamps to see that these remain•
tight. Tighten as needed. Check the cable to verify that it is not worn,
wearing on a frame member, or touching the main cover or end panels (if
equipped).
Check connections and all fasteners to verify that they remain tight.•
Do not climb or stand on the shelter at anytime.•
Remove debris and objects that may accumulate on the shelter. Use tools•
that will not damage the cover when removing debris.
Remove snow to prevent excess accumulation. Use tools that will not•
damage the cover when removing snow.
Check the contents of the shelter to verify that nothing is touching the cover•
or the side panels that could cause damage.
Check the anchoring system to ensure that all components are tight and in•
good repair.
Replace all worn or damaged parts promptly.•
If the shelter is moved, inspect all parts and connections before•
reassembling.
NOTE: With the exception of Truss Arch buildings, ClearSpan™ shelters and
greenhouses do not have any tested loading criteria.

5
CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
SPECIAL NOTE: Baseboards for Frame
Installing a baseboard under the mounting feet along each side of the frame is
recommended. The baseboard runs from the front to the back of the building.
This baseboard is not included with the shipment and must be supplied by the
customer. Treated or recycled plastic lumber works well for a baseboard.
The baseboard, when installed properly, helps prevent the shelter from sinking
into the ground when anchored. Baseboards also provide a surface to attach
rafter feet or other building components.
LAY OUT THE BUILDING SITE
After the site is prepared, identify the location of the shelter corners to help
square the frame during and after assembly.
Taking these steps before assembling the shelter saves time and ensures that
the structure is positioned as desired. The following procedure is a suggested
method. Its use depends on the size of the shelter, shelter application, the
footings, and the method used to anchor the shelter.
SQUARE THE SITE
Identify a corner where a building rafter will be positioned, drive in a stake,1.
and string a line the exact width of the building and stake in place. (Width of
the rafter is measured from center-to-center of the rafter legs.)
String a line at least as long as the building from the first stake at 90°.2.
NOTE: A transit can be used to ensure an accurate 90° angle, or the 3-4-5
rule can be used. Refer to diagram. Using multiples of 3-4-5 such as 6-8-10
or 12-16-20 helps to maintain an accurate 90° angle.
After squaring the position of the building and placing a stake at all corners,3.
string a line between the stakes to mark the base of the building.
Next, mark a line on the ground using the strings between the stakes as4.
guides. The string line can also be used to align rafters during assembly.
NOTE: There is no need to mark the rafter spacing. The purlins, when
installed correctly, will maintain even rafter spacing throughout the length of
the shelter.
BASIC ASSEMBLY STEPS
Follow these basic steps to assemble your building:
Consult the diagrams within this manual to assemble your building. Note1.
that the two (2) end rafters are different from the remaining interior/mid
rafters. Consult the Connections and Connections Details diagrams. Brace
the first end rafter in place after setting it in position on the site. Do not
remove the end rafter bracing until interior rafters are set and attached
forming the frame.
Assemble the entire frame and anchor to the site.2.
Assemble, install, and tighten the cables.3.
Check all connections and install the ratchets for the main cover. Attach all4.
ratchets to the frame using Tek screws.
QH1065 Ratchets (large): All side positions.
QH1061 Ratchets (small): End rafter positions only. See Cover
installation steps for clarification and position. Use the QH1061
ratchets to secure bonnet of cover.
Install the main cover and tighten.5.

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
6Revision date: 09.08.09
FRONTPROFILE
B1-1.0
38R40P1D
38R40P3D
38R40P4D
108807 108807
38R40P2D
38R40P1D
38R40P2D
38R40P3D
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
Ground Level
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Engineering Approval
Manger Approval
Design Approval
Shelter Description
Shelter Dimensions Shelter Sku Number
38' x 56' Economy Building
Drawn By
Creation Date
Last Revision Date
CL108544
QH1061 Ratchet
Attach to End Rafters only.
QH1061 Ratchet
Attach to End Rafters only.

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
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Drawn By Creation Date Last Revision Date
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Sku Number
Shelter Dimensions
Shelter Description
Design Approval
Manger Approval
Engineering Approval
CL108544
C1-1.0
SIDE PROFILE
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
RR
108539
Cable Cable
108539
108539
RRRRRR
NOTE:Rindicates ratchet locations.
108539
Side Wall Cable Assembly
F1-1.0 View 1
8'-0"
Rafter Spacing
(Center to Center)
56'-0" Length
(6)166S099 (1)166P096
1.66" Cover Conduit Pipe Assembly
Purlin-Tek Screw Connection
F1-1.0View2
Secure QH1065 ratchets to rafters using Tek screws.

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
8Revision date: 09.08.09
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A
Engineering Approval
Manger Approval
Design Approval
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Description
Shelter Dimensions Shelter Sku Number
Last Revision Date
Creation Date
Drawn By
CL108544
D1-1.0
CONNECTIONS
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
End Rafter-Purlin
Connection
E1 1.0 View 1
Rafter-Foot
Connection
E1 1.0 View 2
Mid Rafter-Purlin
Connection
E1 1.0 View 3
QH1061 ratchet attached to end
of end rafter; QH1065 ratchet
attached to side of same rafter.

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
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E1-1.0
Engineering Approval
Manger Approval
Design Approval
Shelter Description
Shelter Dimensions Shelter Sku Number
38' x 56' Economy Building
Drawn By
Creation Date
Last Revision Date
108539
1/2"x 4 1/2" Bolt
& 1/2" Nut
1/2"x 5 1/2" Bolt
& 1/2" Nut
End Rafter
105350
Purlin Connection
Bracket
Rafter Coupler
(See Detail Below)
Mid Rafter
105350
Purlin Connection
Bracket
3/8"x 1" Bolt
& 3/8" Nut
108539
1/2"x 5 1/2" Bolt
& 1/2" Nut
1/2"x 4 1/2" Bolt
& 1/2" Nut
QH1065
Ratchet
108539
CONNECTION - DETAILS
View 1
End Rafter-Purlin
Connection View 2
Rafter-Foot
Connection
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
View 3
Mid Rafter-Purlin
Connection
CL108544
Rafter-Foot
Connection
Rafter Coupler
(See Detail Below)
Rafter
108807
Foot Assembly
108803
Coupler Assembly
Rafter
Rafter
Rafter-Coupler
Connection

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
10 Revision date: 09.08.09
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Drawn By Creation Date Last Revision Date
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Sku Number
Shelter Dimensions
Shelter Description
Design Approval
Manger Approval
Engineering Approval
F1-1.0
CONNECTION - DETAIL
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
CL108544
View 2
Cable ClampsCable Clamps
Cable Thimble
Jaw-Jaw Turnbuckle
Cable Thimble
View 1
Side Wall Cable Assembly
Conduit-Tek Screw Connection
Typical cable-to-frame connection.
Customer-Supplied Baseboard

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
6'-01/2"
6'-01/2"
6'-01/2"
5'-10 1/2"
G1-1.0
RAFTER PIPE DETAILS
38'W x 16'-1 3/4" H x 56'L 3/17/2009
CL108544
38R40P1D
DIA./GA. 4.00"/10 GA
PRE-BEND 6'-8 1/2"
TYPE Plain
PT. TO PT.6'-7 1/8"
BEND LCTN.N/A
DEGREEN/A
DRILL9/16"
38R40P2D
DIA./GA. 4.00"/10 GA
PRE-BEND 6'-8 1/2"
TYPE Plain
PT. TO PT.6'-7 3/8"
BEND LCTN.N/A
DEGREE N/A
DRILL9/16"
38R40P4D
DIA / GA.4.00"/10 GA
PRE-BEND 6'-8 1/2"
TYPE Plain
PT. TO PT.6'-7 1/4"
BEND LCTN.N/A
DEGREE N/A
DRILL9/16"
38R40P3D
DIA./GA. 4.00"/10 GA
PRE-BEND 6'-8 1/2"
TYPE Plain
PT. TO PT.6'-7 1/2"
BEND LCTN.N/A
DEGREE N/A
DRILL9/16"
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Last Revision Date
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Sku Number
Shelter Dimensions
Shelter Description
Design Approval
Manger Approval
Engineering Approval
4"
4"
6'-73/8"
4"
4"
6'-71/2"
4"
4"
6'-71/8"
4"
6"
6'-71/8"

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
12 Revision date: 09.08.09
6 7/8" 6 7/8"
8"
8"
6'-1 1/4"
8"
8"
6'-11/8"
8"
5'-111/4"
5'-111/4"
8"
6'-11/8"
6'-11/8"
6'-11/8"
6'-11
/4"
8"
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Drawn By
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Last Revision Date
38' x 56' Economy Building
Shelter Description
Shelter Dimensions Shelter Sku Number
Design Approval
Manger Approval
Engineering Approval
H1-1.0
MAIN COVER DETAILS
38'W x 16'-1 3/4"H x 56'L 3/17/2009
CL108544
Over The Top Measurement:
54'-4" (652")

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
Assembly Procedure
NOTE: When handling the main cover and setting it in position, do not pull on the end straps. They will pull out of the cover. Do not insert any cover conduit into a
cover pocket that includes a pre-installed strap.
WARNING: To prevent damage to the cover and to prevent serious personal injury, DO NOT attempt to install the main cover on windy days.
Assemble the two (2) main cover conduits using the 166P096 pipes and the 166S099 pipes. Conduits can be assembled and then inserted into the cover1.
pocket or, when space is limited, assembled in sections as each pipe is inserted into the conduit pocket. Consult the Side Profile diagram for pipe quantity and
identification. Shelter shown below may differ from the actual shelter frame.
PREPARE MAIN COVER
Gather the parts:
Pipe 1.66" x 99" swaged (166S099)•
Pipe 1.66" x 96" plain: (166P096)•
Main cover and Tek screws•
Locate all sections of pipe needed to assemblea.
the cover conduit.
Insert the swaged end of each pipe into theb.
plain end of another pipe until the conduit is
assembled. See Side Profile diagram.
Secure each pipe joint with a Tek screw.c.
Use duct tape to tape over each Tek screw.d.
Locate the main cover and unfold it on a clean, smooth surface near the frame. Unfold the main cover with the inside surface facing up and the straps2.
positioned at the front and back of the frame. If cover is "fan folded" do not unfold. Place near frame and continue. See insert above.
Align the cover ends with the front and back of the shelter and insert one cover conduit into each side pocket of the main cover.3.
Using short lengths of rope or strap, secure the conduit to the frame as shown above so that the cover remains in place during the installation.4.
Continue by pulling the cover up and onto the frame.5. DO NOT attempt to install the main cover on windy days.
Pull top over
frame
Cover Conduits
Fan-Folder Cover
Cover
Ends w/
Strapping
Side Pocket
Stretch Pocket
Stretch Pocket
Side Pocket
Step 4: Secure this conduit to
the frame during installation.
Customer-Supplied
Baseboard
Fan-Folded Cover

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
14 Revision date: 09.08.09
ATTACH MAIN COVER
Gather the parts:
Main cover (with conduits inserted)•
Ropes (provided by customer) or strap long enough to reach over the frame•
Box cutter or utility knife•
WARNING: To prevent damage and injury, do not leave the cover
unattended if it has not been properly secured. The ropes can be used to
temporarily keep the cover from blowing off the frame.
Assembly Procedure
To pull the cover over the frame, attach ropes or straps to both ends of the1.
cover conduit positioned furthest from the frame (or on top of a fan-folded
cover). Wrap the rope around the conduit to prevent it from slipping off.
NOTE: It may be necessary to attach
additional ropes to the cover conduit
between the end ropes by cutting a small
opening in the cover pocket and tying the
rope around the conduit. DO NOT cut
through the main cover. Cut through the
conduit pocket only.
Once the main cover is pulled into position, center the cover on the frame4.
(end-to-end and side-to-side).
WARNING: To prevent damage and injury, do not leave the cover
unattended if it has not been properly secured.
Locate the black straps at the front and rear hems and feed the straps5.
through the center slot in each end ratchet (QH1061). Operate the ratchet
to wrap the strap onto the center hub just enough to keep the strap secure.
NOTE: Use lifts
and additional
assistants (if
needed) to help
pull the cover
up and over the
frame.
Shelter shown above may be a different style or length.
Cover
Conduit
Ropes
NOTE: Do not tighten completely at this time. This helps to temporarily
secure the cover.
Tie the ropes (or straps), used to pull the cover into position, to the frame to6.
help hold the cover.
Continue with the installation of the side straps.7.
Photo shows the
QH1061 ratchet
attached to the end
rafter. QH1061 is
used to secure the
bonnet portion of the
main cover.
Main Cover
Bonnet
NOTE: Cover shown
may differ from the
actual cover for your
building.
With all ropes attached to the cover conduit, lift and carry the conduit and2.
cover toward the base of the assembled frame. (Skip if cover is fan-folded.)
Set the conduit down, toss the ropes over the frame, and pull the cover into3.
position. Position one person at each rope. Verify that the cover pockets are
to the inside of the building. This will be the underside of the cover when it
is pulled into position on the frame.

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CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
INSTALL THE MAIN COVER SIDE STRAPS
The side straps wrap around slits created in the side conduit pocket. The strap
ends of each strap are then fed into each side ratchet attached to the rafter legs
and slightly tightened to keep the cover in position.
Required parts and tools:
2" yellow bulk strap (The following photos may show a different strap;•
procedure is the same.) Some shelters ship with individual straps.
Tool to cut slits in cover conduit pockets•
Complete these steps to install the side straps:
Move to one side ratchet attached to a rafter and cut a slit in the1. conduit
pocket just above the conduit and in line with the ratchet.
Photos show using a utility knife to
cut a slit above the conduit, which has
been inserted into the main cover side
pocket. Cover, rafter, and frame design
differ from actual shelter. Procedure is
the same.
NOTE: If ropes were used at these
locations when the main cover was
pulled in place, a slit in the cover
pocket may already be present.
NOTE: Do not tighten completely at this
time.
Frame and ratchet location differ from actual
frame. Steps to install the main cover are
similar however.
Feed one end through the slot in the cover pocket and around the conduit.3.
Feed both ends of the strap through the slot in the ratchet and slightly4.
tighten the ratchet.
Repeat the previous steps to install and slightly tighten the remaining5.
straps.
After all side security straps are in place and slightly tightened and the6.
cover is centered evenly on the frame, complete the following steps to
install the PVC conduit and strapping for the stretch pocket of the cover.
NOTE: Do not tighten completely
at this time.
When creating the slit in the pocket for the strap, do not cut the main cover.
Cut only the pocket material.
Using the ratchet and conduit positions as guides, measure and cut a tie2.
down strap from the bulk yellow strap that shipped with the building. Some
straps are shipped pre-cut.
NOTE: Cut the strap length so that
the strap can wrap around the cover
conduit and both ends can be inserted
into the ratchet.

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
16 Revision date: 09.08.09
INSTALL THE PVC CONDUIT FOR MAIN COVER ENDS
For some covers, the PVC conduit is inserted into a pocket at each end of the
main cover. Strapping is then threaded around the conduit and the end rafters.
This strapping is evenly tightened to stretch the main cover end-to-end.
Required parts and tools:
LJ2842 (3/4" PVC conduit) and 103620E (1" strap)•
Duct tape, Tek screws, and driver for Tek screws•
Tool to cut strap, a lift or ladders to reach top of frame, and assistants to•
install and tighten strap
Photo shows the stretch pocket
and the conduit and strapping as
installed for a similar main cover.
View shows the cover as seen
when standing inside the frame
looking up at the end rafter.
Main
Cover
Strap
PVC Conduit
End Rafter
Notched Stretch
Hem Pocket
PVC conduits installed near the ends of the main cover provide an additional
tie-down position. Complete these steps to install the conduit and strapping for
the stretch pockets of the main cover.
Take the first section of PVC conduit and feed it into the stretch pocket from1.
the bottom at one end of the cover. Insert the plain end of the conduit into
the pocket so the next section can be joined to the first.
Photo shows a similar cover and
the location of the stretch pocket.
Cover is shown with the underside
facing up, which is the side visible
from inside the frame when the
cover is installed.
For some covers, the notched
portion of the stretched pocket
is removed in the field by the
customer.
Photo shows the notched
stretch pocket and the
installed PVC conduit at the
end of a similar main cover.
NOTE: Some covers may
not ship with the pocket
material removed for the
installation of the straps. If
slots need to be created,
cut only the cover pocket;
do not cut the main cover.
Space slots approximately
24" apart (on-center) if
these need created.
Notched Stretch Hem
Pocket
PVC Conduit
Notched Stretch
Hem Pocket
End of main cover
where bonnet strap
is located.
Sample Main
Cover to show
pocket location.
Once the bell end reaches the pocket, take another section of PVC conduit,2.
insert the plain end into the bell end of the previous section and secure the
joint using a Tek screw or customer-supplied PVC glue.
NOTE: Wrap the Tek screw
and joint using duct tape.

17
CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
Repeat the steps and continue to assemble and feed the PVC conduit into3.
the pocket.
Once the PVC conduit is fully assembled, secured at the joints, and inserted4.
into the pocket, repeat the steps for the remaining end of the main cover.
With both PVC conduits installed, verify that the cover is centered on the5.
frame (side-to-side and end-to-end) and move to one end rafter.
Take rope or strap and cut a few sections long enough to tie the PVC6.
conduit to the end rafter in a few evenly spaced locations. See example in
the photo below.
Photo shows temporary
straps tied between the
PVC conduit and the end
rafter to keep the main
cover centered on the
frame as the strapping at
the other end of the frame
is installed.
Cover used for illustration
only. Actual cover may
differ from what is shown.
INSTALL PVC CONDUIT (CONTINUED)
Move to the end of the frame opposite the end where the temporary straps7.
were tied, take one end of the bulk roll of 1" strapping, and weave it around
the end rafter and PVC conduit.
Continue weaving the strap around the end rafter and PVC conduit working8.
up and over the rafter and down to the other end of the PVC conduit.
NOTE: Keep the strapping snug during this step, but do not over tighten.
Also, maintain a even distance between the end rafter and the PVC conduit.
Photo shows how to weave strap around the conduit inside
the main cover pocket and the end rafter. (Cover and rafter
shown differ from actual cover.) Distance between the
conduit in the pocket and the end rafter is even.
After weaving the strapping, cut the strap and tie it to the end rafter to9.
temporarily secure it.
Take the remainder of the bulk strap roll, move to the other end of the10.
frame, and repeat the steps to weave the strap between the PVC conduit
and the top of the end rafter.
NOTE: The temporary rope or straps at this end can be removed once the
main strapping is in place.
After the strap is completely installed at this end, cut the strap to length and11.
tie it to the end rafter.
End Rafter
PVC conduit in
notched pocket
Temporary
strap or rope
Main Cover
Bonnet

CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
18 Revision date: 09.08.09
INSTALL PVC CONDUIT (CONTINUED)
Shelter shown above may be a different model and length. Photo used for
illustration purposes only.
NOTE: Maintain an even distance between the end rafter and the PVC
conduit as the strap is tightened.
Also check that the bonnet portion of the main cover overlaps the end
rafters evenly at both ends before stretching the cover. Check this
periodically as the cover is stretched.
If the side straps are too tight and prevent the cover from stretching end-to-
end, loosen but do not remove the straps as needed and continue.
Once the strap is tight at one end, cut it to length (if needed) and tie it to the13.
other leg of the same end rafter.
At each end of the stretch hem strap, drive a Tek screw through the strap14.
and into the back side of the rafter to secure the strap to the rafter. This
helps keep the strap tight and in position.
Return to the other end of the frame and tighten that strapping (if needed)15.
to complete the stretching of the main cover from end-to-end. Secure the
strap using a Tek screw at each end (Step 14).
Continue by tightening the side ratchets.16.
Beginning at either end of the cover, tighten the strap. The strapping will12.
pull against the strapping installed at the other end of the frame.
TIGHTEN THE SIDE RATCHETS
Verify that the cover is in the desired position and centered on the frame.
(Loosen and reposition if needed.) Continue with these steps to tighten the side
ratchets.
Move to the side ratchets attached to each leg of one rafter. Begin at an1.
inside rafter near the center of the frame.
With an assistant at one side ratchet and someone at the other side ratchet2.
on the same rafter, tighten the ratchets to secure the cover.
Tightening the ratchets at the same time on the same rafter helps keep the
cover centered and results in a more uniform appearance.
Move to another rafter and repeat the steps to tighten the side ratchets3.
attached to that rafter.
NOTE: If the strap builds up in the ratchet, loosen the ratchet, remove some
of the strap, and retighten.
After all side ratchets (QH1065) are tight, position someone at each ratchet4.
attached to the end rafter where the bonnet straps of the cover were
previously inserted.
Tighten the end ratchets to secure the bonnet portion of the main cover.5.
Move to the other end of the building and secure the bonnet at that end.6.
Photo shows the
QH1061 ratchet
attached to the end
rafter. QH1061 is
used to secure the
bonnet portion of the
main cover.
Main Cover
Bonnet
NOTE: Cover shown
may differ from the
actual cover for your
building.

19
CLEARSPAN™FABRIC STRUCTURES
Revision date: 09.08.09
This page is reserved for customer notes.