What Are Fabric Structures?
Fabric Structures are prefabricated structures featuring a galvanized steel frame covered with a PVC membrane. The design process is optimized for simplicity, as all structural elements are pre-manufactured and only require assembly on-site by bolting them together to form the final structure.

Fabric structure – Galvanized Steel Structure Covered with PVC Membrane
The materials and construction method enable faster completion of the structure compared to traditional masonry or concrete construction. Ground preparation and foundation work are also simpler and more cost-effective.
A fabric structure is an optimal solution due to the ease of obtaining a building permit, large spans without intermediate columns, short delivery times, quick installation, and the structure’s long lifespan. Throughout the entire process—from purchase and permit acquisition to final installation—our experienced team of sales professionals, engineers, and structural analysts is here to support you.
Uses of a Fabric structure
Fabric Structures offer versatile solutions across a wide range of industries, serving as specialized facilities for industrial warehouses, logistics and transport, waste management, covered parking for vehicles, aviation hangars, covered sales areas, and more.
Advantages of Fabric Structures
A fabric structure is an industrial structure that quickly delivers essential storage, sales, or service space. It is designed to withstand various weather conditions, including snow, wind, and hail, while offering excellent volumetric efficiency and a wide range of customization options to suit your specific needs.
Advantages of Fabric Structures Compared to Traditional Construction
- Cost-effective choice with rapid construction:
- Lifespan exceeding 20 years
- Flexible design allows for extensions or relocation
- Large spans (up to 90 meters) without intermediate columns and usable heights of up to 15 meters
- Minimal maintenance costs
- Steel is an environmentally friendly and recyclable material
- Easier process for obtaining a building permit
Features of Fabric Structures
Construction of a Fabric structure
Schwarzmann Fabric Structures are constructed with a welded hot-dip galvanized steel frame. Each fabric structure undergoes an individual static calculation that accounts for the specific snow and wind loads at the installation site.

Galvanized Steel Structure of a Fabric structure
Construction Spans:
- From 15 m to 90 m
Roof Pitch of Constructions:
- Double-pitched roof with a slope from 15 to 18 degrees
Types of Constructions:
Double-pitched Roof Types WSA and WSC
- For a storage fabric structure with a span of 15 m to 21 m and a usable height of 4 to 6 m, the appropriate type is WSA.
- For covered parking areas with a lower usable height (3 m), the suitable type is designated as WSC.

Double-pitched Roof Type WSS
Schwarzmann X® Fabric structure with a Flat Roof
In 2020, we introduced a new type of fabric structure, the Schwarzmann X®, which features a flat roof appearance and an insulated roof. This structure is ideal for storing moisture-sensitive materials, as the roof insulation prevents condensation. Its modern design and aesthetic rival those of traditional prefabricated halls.
Roofing of the Fabric structure
The membranes are composed of a durable polyester base coated with PVC and UV protection, making them an ideal roofing material for both the roofs and walls of steel structures.
The membranes meet the highest quality standards, and their flexibility allows for innovative architectural solutions. They are distinguished by their UV and weather resistance, and when white is used, their translucency often eliminates the need for additional lighting during the day.

A fabric structure typically does not require additional lighting during the day.
We use exclusively flame-retardant PVC membranes, classified as B, s2, d0 according to SIST EN 13501-1, and available in a variety of colors. The choice of membrane typically depends on the purpose and size of the structure. For storing moisture-sensitive materials, an additional inner lining is applied to prevent condensation and dripping from the ceiling.

Inner tarp for protection against condensation.
The PVC membrane is secured to the steel structure at multiple points using a specialized tensioning mechanism. Pockets are welded onto the membrane’s base surface, into which galvanized steel pipes are inserted. These pipes are then attached and tensioned to the structure using perforated straps and threaded rods.
Our design engineers, in collaboration with an architect, develop a suitable color combination for the entire PVC membrane of the fabric structure. Additionally, we offer the option to print texts, logos, and photos on the membrane.
Foundations
In most cases, concrete foundations are not required for the installation of a fabric structure. The structure can be anchored to an asphalt surface or a compacted gravel base using steel anchors. However, for larger Fabric Structures (with significant widths, heights, or both) or in locations with high wind and snow loads, appropriate concrete foundations (either point or strip) may be necessary. Our structural engineer can provide the load specifications for your contractor to design and construct the foundations. Alternatively, we can manage the entire foundation work by agreement.

Foundation of a Fabric structure (Installation on Asphalt)
Equipment for the Fabric structure
During the planning and quoting phase, the necessary additional equipment for the structure is identified. This additional equipment includes:
- Manual sliding doors Schwarzmann (single or multiple wings),
- Sectional doors,
- Personnel doors,
- Ventilation windows,
- Air vents,
- Roof and wall fans,
- Internal PVC lining,
- Skylights,
- Gutters,
- Snow guards,
- Lighting,
- Canopies, etc.
Equipment for the Fabric structure
(Alt text: 3D sketch of a fabric structure with highlighted additional equipment)
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the cost of Schwarzmann Fabric Structures?
The cost of a fabric structure is calculated based on the specific project. Each design is customized to meet the client’s requirements and the conditions at the installation site, so a general price list is not available. Our sales team will prepare a detailed quote or provide an indicative price within 5–10 working days after receiving all necessary data for the calculation.
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Is a building permit required for setting up a fabric structure in Slovenia?
Yes, a building permit is required for a fabric structure or storage tent. Our engineers can prepare the necessary drawings and documentation for the project. For further details and additional documentation requirements related to the installation of a tent structure, please consult your local municipality or project designer.
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What is the delivery time for a Schwarzmann fabric structure?
The delivery time is determined individually, depending on the company’s workload and the size of the structure. Generally, the delivery time for Fabric Structures ranges from 45 to 90 days after the order is placed.
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What dimensions of Fabric Structures do you offer?
We offer Fabric Structures with spans ranging from 15 meters to 90 meters, with usable side heights up to 15 meters. The minimum area is 300 m², and the smallest structure in our range is 15 meters wide and 20 meters long.
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What are the warranty and lifespan of storage tents?
The structure comes with a 10-year warranty against rusting, and the PVC membrane material is covered for 5 years (or 10 years for membranes with a weight of 850 and 900 g/m²). The general warranty for installed components and equipment is 1 year.