The British winter is becoming increasingly unpredictable, with heavier snowfall and more extreme conditions than ever before. But don’t worry – your SBI Products structure is built for exactly these challenges. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your veranda, carport, or canopy in top condition this winter.

Even before the first signs of a snowflake, your outdoor living space needs a thorough once-over. Think of it like preparing your car for the winter season – a little preparation can go a long way.

What you need to do:

• Gutters – Give those a good clear-out (leaves, moss, potential bird nests)
• Fixings – Check every fixing is secure (vitally important for Carports)
• Seals – Make sure all glass panels are properly sealed (especially for Verandas)
• Drainage – Test your drainage systems work adequately
• Misc Items – Clear away any loose items that could cause any potential problems

Pro Tip: Pay special attention to the corners and joints of your Veranda, Carport or Canopy – they tend to be the first places where winter weather can cause issues for you.

Your SBI Veranda, Canopy or Carport is calculated to handle snow loads specific to your region, but it’s still important to keep an eye on things during any unexpected heavy snowfall.

Different Products need different types of attention:

• Glass Verandas: Keep an eye out for even snow distribution across the glass panels
• Carports: Check for snow build-up where vehicle heat meets cold air
• Canopies: Monitor valleys and gutters where snow can collect and clear as soon as possible

Remember: Snow load calculations on our products vary across the UK – what works in Essex might need extra support in places like Scotland where snow falls more regularly and heavier episodes!

When it comes to removing snow from your veranda, carport or canopy, your technique matters.

Here’s an easy to follow step-by-step guide:

DO:

• Use a soft-bristled, long-handled brush so not to scratch and be able to reach
• Work methodically from ground level to ensure even clearing
• Focus on clearing drainage points on the product such as guttering

ABSOLUTELY DO NOT:

• Climb onto your structure at anytime
• Use metal tools to clear it that could cause damage
• Let snow build up unevenly across the structure

Giving your outdoor structure a weekly once-over can prevent bigger problems in the future.

Here’s what to keep a check on:

Verandas:

• Glass – Clean glass panels to allow maximum light
• Seals – Check all the seals still remain watertight
• Noises – Listen for any unusual noises such as creaks

Carports:

• Impact Damage – From winter vehicle use
• Drainage – Check drainage is working as it should
• Stability – Ensure posts remain stable and straight

Canopies:

• Ice – Monitor for ice formation on panels
• Gutters – Check guttering is clear of any types of debris
• Connections – Inspect panel connections are tight

Stay assured: your SBI product is a truly special structure, no need to worry as your outdoor product is:

• Fully and specifically calculated for regional snow loads in your area
• Tested against extreme conditions like rain, wind, snow and hail
• Built with strong and durable aluminium maintaining strength in the colder season
• Fully protected by marine-grade powder coating – built to last

Your Outdoor Living structure comes with an impressive reassurance:

• Included is a 10-year guarantee
• An impressive 60-year minimum life expectancy
• Expert support and advice network from us to you

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you:

• Notice any unusual movement of the structure
• Hear strange noises such as creaking etc
• See anything on or around the product that concerns you in any way

Your SBI Veranda, Canopy or Carport isn’t just built to survive winter – it’s designed to help you enjoy it too!

By following our advice and with proper care, you can:

• Keep using your outdoor space year-round assured with it’s performance
• Protect vehicles and property effectively saving you money in the long run
• Maintain a bright, usable area even in darker months, enjoying winter evenings

Your SBI Products outdoor living structure has been engineered specifically for the good old, unpredictable British weather, with calculations tailored to your area. So, whether you’ve got a veranda in Kent, a canopy in Scotland or a carport in Yorkshire, you can trust in the British engineering excellence of our products, backed by decades of experience within our team.

Remember: While your structure is built tough, we advise that you always prioritise your safety during check up and maintenance.

If you are at all in any doubt or have any concerns, speak to us – we’re here to listen, here to help!

Looking for more specific advice on any of the products?

Contact us for specific guidance tailored to your particular structure and your location.

Your structure is engineered to handle British winters, but your safety comes first – Never attempt maintenance during severe weather conditions.

If you want to learn more about how your structure handles the British winter weather, get in touch?

Ask us about our regional snow load calculations for your area – they are the very best available and makes for some impressive reading.