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Outdoor park benches are a place to socialize, read a good book, and simply relax while taking in the surroundings. But they can also serve as a special space to celebrate an important event or honor a fallen friend. A family in Henderson County, Kentucky did just that when they ordered a memorial bench to remember a loving mother and her son who perished in 2021. 

Braelen Hicks-Schaefer and her one-year-old son, Weston, died tragically in an automobile accident – leaving a huge hole in the hearts of Braelen’s husband and family members. To pay tribute to their loved ones, Braelen’s aunt, Jamie McCormick, contacted Furniture Leisure to create a memorial bench that they could place at a local ballpark where Braelen played as a child and was most recently a coach. 

Braelen’s family customized a memorial bench with a heartfelt message and large, printed vinyl photos of Braelen and Weston. Jamie expressed her gratitude to Furniture Leisure for bringing their bench vision to life. “I wish you guys were closer to come out for the unveiling to see how happy our friends and family will be…all thanks to you!”

The beautiful bench was unveiled in August 2022 and now sits at the Baskett Recreation Park in Henderson County where families can see their smiling faces and know Braelen and Weston are cheering the players on. 

The Hicks-Schaefer family said they take comfort in knowing Braelen can forever watch the games she grew up to love and are hopeful that the bench will keep Braelen and Weston’s memories alive at the ballfield.

To the Hicks-Schaefer family, friends, and community, we appreciate the opportunity and trust you gave us to make this memorial bench in honor of Braelen and Weston a reality. It has been an absolute privilege working with you, even through this difficult time. The bench is beyond beautiful and so is the heartfelt message behind it. Braelen and Weston are truly blessed to have such loving, caring people in their lives. Thank you from all of us at Furniture Leisure. Our hearts and prayers are with you.

People love to be outside. And properties that boast about their outdoor area would agree. The fresh air, sunshine, and atmosphere make for a pleasant environment for all to enjoy. However, the sun can be both friend and foe with relentless heat. There needs to be some relief during the day for guests to cool down and be more comfortable. When trees are not present, artificial shade is a great solution to take a break from the brutal sun. You might want to consider adding commercial shade for longevity. These options can provide protection for your patrons and outdoor equipment for years with little maintenance! But which is the best fit? When selecting the right type of commercial shade for your property, there are several considerations that should be made. While adhering to your budget is obviously important, other factors to keep in mind include whether you're looking for a solution that's portable or permanent, altitude, and design.

Types of Commercial Shade Options

There are several types of shades available for commercial use. Discussed below are the different options we supply and the benefits each one has to offer for your location.

Umbrellas

Commercial Umbrellas are typically the way to go when it comes to adding shade to your commercial property. Umbrellas are universally used as they are long-lasting, easy to repair, portable, and cost-efficiency is far better than any other choice. There are plenty of style and size options to shade any location, particularly for smaller spaces.

Benefits

• Inground, portable, and surface-mount base options
• Height and angles can be adjusted
• Cost-efficient
• Easy to repair
• Easy to Store
• Quick Ship options are available

Where to Use Umbrellas

Umbrellas are a good choice in areas with low wind ratings. They make an excellent addition to HOA, beachside communities, restaurants, hotels, schools, resorts, and a variety of other property types. When not in use, these umbrellas are portable and easy to store.

Types of Umbrellas

Single Center Post

Single center post umbrellas are available in a variety of different shapes, including square, hexagonal, octagonal, and rectangular. While umbrellas are typically available in two standard sizes, 7.5' and 9', we do carry them in sizes ranging from 6.5' to 16'. Lift options include:

• Manual
• Pulley & pin
• Crank
• Auto-tilt

Cantilever

Cantilevers feature an offset post that allows the maximum center shade without obstruction. They're available in square and octagonal shapes, ranging in size from 9' to 13'. These umbrellas are a great option if you're looking for a solution that doesn't require you to break ground or make permanent changes to your property.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass umbrellas are ideal when you're looking for a shade option that can withstand higher winds. These shades feature a hard, fiberglass top that is more resilient in the wind compared to its fabric equivalent.

Fiberglass umbrellas are available in sizes ranging from 6' to 8' and come in the following styles:

• Round
• Square
• Octagonal
• Wave

Wind Rating

It's important to remember that single center posts and cantilever umbrellas should be closed when winds exceed 20 mph. Remember, “If the umbrella dances around, it is time to put it down.” Fiberglass umbrellas aren't officially wind-rated, however, they can typically resist winds up to 50 mph due to their solid canopies when properly secured with the high wind upgrade.

Cabanas

Cabanas give an exotic, secluded feel for vacationers or residents when enjoying the sites. They are often used as rental spaces to provide a private, intimate setting for guests to make the most out of their experience. Portable cabanas can also be a means of providing decent coverage to any location on demand as they are easy to assemble on-site as needed. 

Benefits

• Provides a private solution for your patrons
• Can choose from semi-permanent or portable 
• Can generate additional revenue for rentals
• Easy to store

Where to Use Cabanas

Cabanas are best for large commercial properties with spacious poolside or beachside areas, such as luxury hotels, resorts, country clubs, and beachside condominiums. This type of shade typically stands up in areas with lower sustained wind ratings.

Types of Cabanas

Beach Cabanas

Beach cabanas are an ideal option if you're looking for an exotic shade that adds a luxurious feel to your waterfront properties. These cabanas are large enough to cover two chaise lounges. Each segment is custom-made with Sunbrella or Outdura fabric and can include a back vent to allow breezes to escape.

Pop-Up Tents

Pop-up tents are large, square shades with a completely portable potential. They allow you to place shade whenever and wherever it is needed. Curtains can be included for patrons to have more shade and privacy, along with adding an air of luxury to the outdoor space.They're available in sizes ranging from 10' x 11' to 11' x 11'.

Fabric Pavilions

Fabric pavilions are similar to pop-up tents but feature semi-permanent footing. Because of this, you can choose to include battery-operated lights and fans to condition the covered space below. Full curtains are also an option to completely cloak one or more sides of the perimeter. Fabric pavilions are square and 10' x 10'.

Wind Rating

Due to its portable nature, the wind load for Cabanas is only as good as the mount. The legs will need to be weighed down by sand or secured to a surface to hold up against wind gusts. Beach cabana and pop-up tents are not an official wind test but are estimated at 25 mph. However, if the shade starts to fight the gusts, it's time to take it down. Being a semi-permanent structure, fabric pavilions are estimated to withstand an estimated 30 mph when installed appropriately. 

Fabric Shade Structures

Fabric shade structures are permanent structures that are prime for the shading of large areas. They offer the greatest shade area for the price making them a promising solution to beat the heat for all locations! It is worth noting that these shade canopies are often 80% waterproof, which means that some leakage will occur if rainfall is heavy. Despite this, the breathable fabric acts as a vent making it excellent against heavier winds. 

Benefits

• Permanent installation means they don't need to be put away daily or seasonally
• Can withstand strong winds
• Affordable cost per sq. ft of shade for most standard models

Please note: It's important that canopies on fabric shade structures are removed when ice, snow, or strong hurricane-force winds occur. Because they are permanent structures, engineering drawings may be required for installation permits. Structure specs may differ by location. 

Where to Use Fabric Shade Structures

Fabric shade structures are a good option in regions where winds are typically higher and where permanent shade is beneficial. They can be installed on a variety of property types, including playgrounds, residential carports, sports complexes, zoos, restaurants, dog daycares, and amusement parks.

Types of Fabric Shade Structures

Shade Umbrella

Shade umbrellas feature a center pole and range in size from 10' to 20’ in diameter with entry heights ranging from 8' to 12'. These umbrellas come in square and hexagonal shapes.

Shade Cantilever

Shade cantilevers come in a variety of shape options. Single-column cantilevers range in size from 8' to 20' with entry heights of 8' to 12'. Styles include:

• Square
• Hexagonal
• Tornado

These fabric shades can also be purchased with double-column cantilevers that range in size from 20' x 10' to 24' x 14' with 8' to 12' entry heights. Style options for double-column cantilevers include:

• Hanging
• Suspended
• Arched
• Dugout
• T-Post

Hip End Shades

Hip-end shades come with four or more columns and are available in rectangular, square, and hexagonal styles. They range in size from 10' x 10' to 38' x 38', with entry heights that range between 8' and 12'. Custom sizes of up to 60' x 60' are also available. Hip-end shades offer the most amount of shade for the least amount of cost. 

Sail Shades

Sail shades provide a great deal of shade and a stylish look. Sail shades in particular, due to the customization options, can get rather expensive when compared with other types of commercial shades or fabric structures. These shades don't feature support rafters, and as such, their columns are typically quite large and need to be surface mounted to ensure stability. These triangular and/or square shades come in three different formations: equilateral, isosceles, and hyperbolic. Sizes can be customized, with the largest triangular shade being 50' x 50' x 50' and the largest square being 35' x 35'. Options include:

• Single sail
• Multi-sail
• Multi-level
• Quad
• Sand Dollar

Wind Rating

Fabric Shade Structures have a sustained wind rating of 76 mph with hurricane force-1 wind gusts of 105 mph. To ensure high ratings, all beams and canopy must remain fixed in place without the ability to adjust. 

Metal Shelters

Commercial metal shelters are a solid, powerhouse protection against every outdoor element including snow, hail, rain, and sun. The complete construction is made from industrial steel for permanent coverage and durability. Metal shelters' strength and longevity come at a price which makes them the most expensive shade solution option.

Benefits

• Can withstand heavy winds, rain, hail, and snowfall
• A permanent structure that doesn't require regular adjustment or moving

Where to Use Commercial Metal Shelters

Commercial shelters are best in locations that experience unstable weather patterns. The solid roof provides a protective cover making it a great addition to properties such as restaurant patios, schools, amusement parks, local parks, ranches, and picnic areas. They make a great cover alongside picnic and barbecue areas, as well as playgrounds and other outdoor gathering areas.

Types of Commercial Metal Shelters

Hip End Metal Shelters

Hip-end Metal Shelters come in several shapes, including square, rectangle, hexagon, and octagon. The hexagon and octagon shapes can measure as large as 64' in diameter while square and rectangle shades can be as large as 50' wide. 

Gable End

Gable End shelters feature an A-frame roof to offer the most height clearance and can be made as large as 50' x 104'. Ideal for housing large equipment and even animals.

Mini and Kiosk

Mini Metal Shelters and Kiosk can be made as large as 12' x 12' and make a great addition to park benches, bus stops, and small picnic areas. Kiosk shelters make a great option for properties that need to post outdoor signage and cover community mailboxes.

Wind Rating

They withstand winds of more than 90 mph and hold a snow load rating of more than 10 PSF. It's important to note that these ratings can vary depending on the model and site installation.

Selecting the Right Commercial Shade Option for Your Business

After reviewing all these options you may have a better idea of what type of shade to establish on your commercial property.  However, there are several variables you should consider as well. Before committing to a purchase, take time to think about the following factors to ensure your satisfaction.

Cost & Availability

For most businesses, budget is the biggest consideration to make when selecting any temporary or permanent structure for shade. Commercial shade can cost anywhere from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars so it's important to determine what the most adorable option is while you do your research. In most cases, the more temporary a shade structure is, the more affordable it is. That being said, umbrellas are typically the most affordable option while metal structures, which are the most permanent and sturdy choice, are the most expensive.

If you're in a hurry to add shade to your property, availability will be a factor too. Because umbrellas are widely available and are typically stocked, there isn't a long wait time to receive them. Metal shelters are permanent, and because they require engineering and construction, they generally take months to produce and days to install.

Portability

Being able to move your shade throughout your property or disassemble it for easy cleaning may also be a considerable factor. If you're looking for something portable that can easily be taken down and stored, then umbrellas or tents are the way to go. In contrast, if a more stable shade is required then the fabric shade structure and the metal park shelter are the right choices.

Maintenance

Keeping your property clean and well-maintained is important and as such, you want to look for a shade that will be easy to clean and keep in good repair. Permanent structures are typically the easiest to maintain so if you're after something that's easy to clean and won't require repairs too often, a metal structure might be the best choice. Umbrellas and fabric shades are typically quite easy to clean. However, extreme weather can cause wear to the fabric or joints when not put down in a timely manner. While repairs are simpler to conduct, they may be needed more often.

Coverage

Size is everything when it comes to shade. You could potentially space out umbrellas to cover the grounds or maybe you want to cover the whole thing with little sunlight entry using a fabric structure. Knowing how big the space is and in what increment you want the shade are vital questions when determining your options. 

Typical Weather Conditions

Depending on where your property is located geographically, you might face intense weather from time to time. If snowstorms, hurricanes, or high winds are common in your area, consider adding a permanent shade structure instead of fabric shades or umbrellas. Additionally, if you're adding shade to a rooftop patio or another area at a higher elevation, you might experience higher winds, and if so, something more permanent can be a better solution here, too.

Adding shade to your property is a great way to make sure that your guests feel comfortable when they spend time outdoors. By following the recommendations outlined above, you can make sure you select a commercial shade structure that suits your location, budget, and style. 

For more recommendations, contact the representatives at Furniture Leisure and tell us your thoughts. We will do all we can to advise you on when options will work best for your situation and location!

    As more people continue to venture out of the house, travel and enjoy life post-pandemic, the demand for commercial furniture is greater than ever. Whether it’s park and playground equipment, poolside furniture, or other hospitality furnishings, commercial outdoor furniture and supplies are hot commodities. 

    Unfortunately, businesses and organizations are finding it is taking much longer to refresh or replace their furniture due to a myriad of global supply chain issues. Long lead times are plaguing nearly every industry, including commercial outdoor furniture. Even items that are typically well-stocked, like our plastic resin pool furniture, are available one day and out of stock the next because customers are frantically buying up what they can to meet their open seasons. 

What’s causing the lead-time issues?

    The reasons for the long lead times for commercial outdoor furniture are many. As we noted in our blog post last year, COVID incited material and labor shortages which led to delays in receiving products. Today, we are still experiencing shortages of valuable resources, now we have rising gas prices, inflation, and supply chain issues to contend with as well. 

    Imported materials sent via cargo shipping containers are not only more expensive to manufacture and transport, but they’re also harder to come by due to understaffed depots. When the cargo does arrive at US ports, it can take days or weeks before the cargo is offloaded. Economists predict the goods shortages and price surges will likely not improve until well into 2022.

With less product availability, rising costs, and longer lead times continuing to affect the market, the outlook may seem uncertain for those looking to purchase outdoor furniture, park equipment, and accessories. Fear not. You may not be able to control the supply chain woes, but you can be ready to meet the needs of your visitors and guests by being proactive and flexible.

How can you manage the disruption?

At Furniture Leisure, we have four tips to help combat the supply chain issues and furnish your commercial site: 

1. Pre-plan and order early

The furniture order-to-arrival timeline is unpredictable, so you must plan early and order farther in advance. Place your pool furniture orders in November or December to ensure you’re fully stocked before the spring pool season begins. For park and playground equipment, we suggest ordering 4 to 6 months in advance of the opening season.

By ordering early, you’ll not only be higher in the queue to receive your furniture, but you’ll also likely avoid price increases coming down the pipeline from manufacturers. 

2. Consider items from our Quick Ship catalog

For more reliable and faster delivery timelines, we recommend checking out our expansive catalog of Quick Ship products. They include our exclusive RHINO and ELITE lines of picnic tables, benches, and trash receptacles. Cost-efficient, commercial-grade, and built to last, our proprietary furniture collections come in a variety of styles and colors to suit your needs. 

As an added bonus, our Quick Ship products have reduced lead times. Depending on the item, your order can be shipped in as little as 3 days to 6 weeks. That’s much shorter than some manufacturers that currently have lead times of 10 weeks or more. If you want quality, American-made products delivered fast, give our Quick Ship products a try!

3. Track your orders

At Furniture Leisure, we have noticed many of our carriers are foregoing making 24-hour call-ahead appointments with our customers because they do not have the manpower to set up delivery windows. Therefore, we encourage you to closely follow the tracking of your order as it nears the delivery stage. This will enable you to make the necessary preparations to receive the order when it arrives. Have your space ready and staff on hand on the expected delivery day to ensure a smooth experience. Keep in mind that some outdoor furniture products require assembly, so once the shipment arrives, your team should be equipped with the right tools. Our staff can tell you in advance if any of the products in your order will require assembly.

4. Work with our sales consultants for customized solutions 

Our sales consultants are experts when it comes to outdoor furniture products, availability, lead times, and problem-solving. We’re available online, on the phone, and in person to help you navigate through the supply chain disruption and help you find the best solutions for your specific needs. We stay on top of the latest trends so we can put together a complete site design for your space that’s both functional and appealing. At Furniture Leisure, we’ve been providing commercial site furnishings for nearly 20 years. Whether you’re new to ordering outdoor furniture or a seasoned customer looking for fresh trends and alternatives, we’re to help. 

Don’t fret about the current supply chain challenges. If you plan, prepare and partner with Furniture Leisure, you’ll weather this storm and be fully furnished for your upcoming peak season. Call to speak with one of our associates at 1-800-213-2401 or visit us at furnitureleisure.com today.

     It’s been nearly two years since the pandemic prompted indoor lockdowns and restrictions as we’ve never seen before. To combat the mental and physical strain, people have sought refuge at parks, playgrounds, and other outdoor recreational areas. A 2021 report by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) found seven in 10 people have either maintained or increased their use of public parks and trails during the pandemic. Along with exercise, respondents said they frequent outdoor environments like parks to spend time with family and friends, alleviate day-to-day stress, and bring them closer to nature.

     The NRPA and other industry experts say this desire for outdoor recreation will continue to increase as people realize the importance of physical and social interactions. Parks and playgrounds not only have a deeply positive effect on a child’s holistic development, but they also improve the overall physical and mental wellbeing of people of all ages.

     At Furniture Leisure, we couldn’t agree more. Parks and playgrounds are the perfect places to socialize, exercise, and rejuvenate the soul. That’s why we offer an expansive collection of outdoor furniture and equipment that promotes health and positivity. 

     In fact, we see four trends gaining popularity in the park and playground segments that are creating safe and enjoyable experiences for more people:

• Inclusive playgrounds that attract all ability levels
• Furniture accessories that protect visitors from the elements
• Outdoor fitness spaces that offer a variety of ways to exercise
• Outside classroom settings that foster creativity and learning

As we dive deeper into these top trends, we’ll highlight some of our product solutions that serve park-goers’ needs while improving your surroundings.

Inclusive playgrounds that offer something for everyone

     As people continue to live longer and more family households include multi-generational members, they need versatile activity areas that interest all ages and abilities. A variety of play equipment, seating, and outdoor conveniences promote intergenerational connections and overall wellness benefits. Provide playhouses for small children like the Ringmaster Playhouse that not only captivates them with its numbered stairs and elongated slide, it also helps them learn balance, shapes, and colors.

      Encourage children to be more active and build confidence with playground sets that feature a range of activities – from easy crawl-through areas and slides to more challenging ladders and trapeze bars. Our Expedition Playground Set has all this and more, including ADA transfer areas so children of all abilities can partake in the fun.

      For older visitors who want to watch their grandkids play, create comfortable seating areas nearby that contain an assortment of benches with backings and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables. By adapting your outdoor area to meet a wider age range and needs, you will create a more inclusive, welcoming environment for all visitors.

Shades that protect from the sun

     If you attract more people to your outdoor areas, you must also protect them from the elements, especially in parts of the country where temperatures can reach triple digits. Shade structures over playground equipment protect children from the sun’s harmful UV rays and lower the temperature of the shaded area by 15 to 20 degrees. Furniture Leisure has shade structures for playsets that cover a 1,000 sq. ft. area and have an entry height of up to 12 feet. Made of commercial-grade fabric and heavy-duty steel, our UV-protected canopies are strong enough to deflect hail and withstand wind gusts up to 90 mph.

      Provide added comfort for people at benches and tables with non-intrusive shades like our Tornado Shade Structure Umbrella, which offers protection and, at the same time, style and color to your outdoor area. Also for longevity in the utmost weather protection, a metal top park shelter can be considered. A more comfortable sitting area encourages visitors to spend more time picnicking, socializing, and enjoying their surroundings. At Furniture Leisure, we have an array of umbrellas, shelters, and shade structures for every area of your park and playground. Call Shannon, our resident shade expert, at 1-800-213-2401 to find the ideal shade products for your space.

Expanded outdoor fitness areas

      The closing of indoor gyms and fitness centers at the onset of COVID forced people to find alternative ways to exercise and stay fit. Even now, as some gyms have reopened, many are not comfortable working out in confined spaces with others.

      Over the years, outdoor fitness areas and obstacle courses have popped up across the country. Now, as user demand is skyrocketing, more communities are including these amenities to meet the growing need. In addition to dedicated fitness spaces, consider adding obstacle courses with equipment or walking trails with exercise stations. From sit-up benches and balancing boards to cardio-boosting air walkers and ladders, integrate a variety of outdoor fitness equipment from Furniture Leisure that accommodates all levels and abilities – including those with disabilities. Designed for use by people 13 and older, our equipment offerings have ADA-accessible options and stand up to regular use and harsh weather conditions.

Outside learning spaces that foster a comfortable teaching environment

      Another trend making its way outdoors is the addition of dedicated learning areas to replace or supplement indoor classrooms. Along with providing a safer group atmosphere, outside learning spaces promote participation and play, and enable schools to provide a hybrid teaching environment where children can learn in alternate surroundings.

      Browse Furniture Leisure’s extensive catalog of outdoor classroom furniture to build your own custom learning environment, or select one of our prebuilt classroom packages that include seats, a canopy, a trash receptacle, and a sanitation station.

     As people’s needs evolve to adapt, so should your outdoor spaces. These 2022 trends will soon become benchmarks for parks, playgrounds, schools, and other public spaces. The warm weather will be here before you know it, so now is the time to order equipment to improve your outside space. For help with all your outdoor equipment needs, speak with one of our Furniture Leisure experts at 1-800-213-2401.

     The market for receiving commercial pool furniture and industrial site amenities in 2021 can be summed in one word: “Delayed”! All year there have been substantial material, labor, and freight shortages that have pushed back estimated arrival dates on products, sometimes double or triple past their original expectations. This industry-wide problem of raw material deficiencies caused by the ongoing covid crisis continues to make national headlines. Though we would like to say that the worst is behind us, it is foreseen the situation will not be improving anytime soon. In fact, the growing demand from establishments opening their doors at the same time has created a backlog of orders waiting to be fulfilled as factories standby to receive resources. 

     For this reason, we encourage all customers who are planning to re-furnish their HOA, parks, schools, hotels, waterparks, etc. in the spring of 2022, to place all orders at the end of 2021. This includes all picnic tables, benches, chaise lounges, dining chairs, patio tables, umbrellas, trash receptacles, bike racks, grills, bleachers, and shade structures. By placing your order before January 2022 you may be able to avoid new year price increases and secure a spot on the production schedule for spring delivery. Due to high demands and unpredictable material shortages, it is important to note that all orders cannot be held for a specific date and will be shipped out as soon as complete. Please plan ahead and be safe!

 For questions about updated lead time or written quotes, please call 1-800-213-2401 to speak to an expert.

          As schools begin to re-open for the first time during the Coronavirus pandemic many districts are beginning to implement outdoor learning environments as a way to provide an additional layer of safety to their students and community. Just this week the New York City Mayor announced that all schools in NYC would be allowed to launch outdoor learning initiatives next semester.  "We know outdoors is one of the things that works, It's gonna open a lot of opportunities." Mayor De Blasio was quoted as saying (link). 

           With this trending style of classroom, there is much for school administrators, teachers, and staff to consider when preparing a safe and efficient learning environment for their students. Below is a list of steps necessary when setting up the schoolyard for an outdoor classroom, including proper on-campus location and outdoor amenities that promote social distancing, sanitation, and shade. 

Step 1 - Plan for your outdoor classroom location

          Outdoor classrooms are versatile in the sense that they can be placed in a number of different locations. Popular choices to establish an outdoor classroom are within gardens, in open fields, an empty lot, under an existing pavilion and large trees, or around outdoor athletic spaces such as basketball court, soccer, and baseball fields. Make use of trees, lakes, or other natural scenery to provide your students with an engaging, stress-free atmosphere. 

          When considering the location for the outdoor classroom, safety is always the number one priority. This includes protecting students, wildlife, and the environment from potentially hazardous situations. Stay clear of a site that is in close proximity to car/bus lanes or busy roadways.  It is also a good idea not to be too close to active sporting functions where distraction and fly balls are common. Keep away from perimeters of unsecured tree lines and bodies of water to prevent invasion on local wild animals and plants that may reside in the area. Also avoid potential dangerous objects, such as storm drains, dumpsters, air conditioning units, etc.

          Be sure the space is large enough to account for health/social distancing guidelines (6 feet apart from another person or about 2 arms’ length). Reserve a section for teachers to stand front and center, whether it be in the middle of a circular formation or at the head like in a standard classroom to allow students to hear lectures while providing optimal supervision of the class.


Step 2 - Furnish your outdoor classroom

          Once space is determined, there are several provisions that can be used to make an outdoor classroom not only functional but comfortable. Site furnishing that provides shade, seating, and cleanliness are essential to promote a healthy learning environment. Below are considerable options to set up a successful classroom outdoors:

Shade

• Umbrellas - Using umbrellas to provide shade coverage for students is a non-permanent, cost-efficient solution. These items can typically be placed within the center of a picnic table and anchored to a weighted umbrella base below. Most commercial umbrellas are tested to withstand wind gusts of up to 40 mph and are equipped with canopies that are completely waterproof. Cantilever style umbrellas are another popular choice as they hang over the occupants and provide a larger amount of coverage without imposing posts. Umbrellas can be installed and dismounted with ease and are low-maintenance.

• Shade structure - Shade structures are larger permanent canopies that will relieve the entire class from extreme brightness and heat caused by the sun. These products come in a variety of sizes to optimize coverage to any area at a given location. Multiple eye-catching styles will create an inviting atmosphere that encourages students to want to take their studies outdoors. Liability is also low as the columns are fixed to the ground and the fabric typically has a minimum 8 ft. entry height.  Schools can use fabric shades structures as a temporary solution for sun protection while battling the current pandemic situation. But these artificial covers are also a long term asset that will enrich outdoor learning for many years thereafter.  

• Large Trees - To save a considerable margin in the school’s budget, full leafy trees can also provide great shade coverage. Take advantage of the natural cover provided by any large trees that are already established on the grounds. Setting up a classroom in an area such as this will surely make for a unique learning environment!

Seating Options 

• Outdoor desks - Individual desks that consist of non-porous, easy to clean/sanitize materials that are impervious to the outdoor elements. Outdoor desks are made for one student at a time and typically share the same front-facing characteristics as a desk you would find indoors. Thermoplastic or powder-coating protective layers make suitable options to set up and leave outdoors fulltime as they are extremely weather-resistant.  

• Picnic Tables (with or without umbrellas depending) - Picnic tables provide a large tabletop space for reading/writing and can seat multiple students at a time. Any industrial material for the tabletop and seats are suitable for an outdoor classroom, however, fiberglass is usually the recommended choice as its flat, smooth surface makes it easier to do schoolwork on. To mitigate the risk of disease transmission, transparent table dividers for thermoplastic picnic tables can be installed to obstruct the airflow between occupants. 

• Benches - A cost-efficient, space-saving seating solution that can be easy to rearrange or fix depending on the demands of the outdoor classroom. Implementing benches as the primary source of outdoor furniture, however, doesn’t provide students with a tabletop surface, leaving little room for writing or an area to place supplies. Such accommodations would be most suitable for instances where demonstration is the key style of learning rather than a lecture that requires taking notes.

• Bleachers - Portable bleachers make for great outdoor classroom seating as they provide large multilevel spacing that is ideal for social distancing. With many long rows, one bleacher can have enough capacity to accommodate the entire class safely.  

Cleanliness

• Receptacles - Trash cans and recycling stations are a means of keeping the ground free of unwanted litter. By including a trash receptacle within the outdoor classroom space, students and teachers will have a place to discard papers, bottles, pens, food, and more while class is in session. In addition to a clean campus, this also maintains a healthy environment for both students and wildlife by not subjecting animals to potential harmful debris or inviting pests such as ants or rats to the area.

• Sanitation Stations – The Coronavirus has redefined the importance of public hygiene. This is even more prominent within schools where social distancing and the use of the same surfaces are not always avoidable. Access to filled sanitation stations should be available at all times. Even in a world not distressed by a global pandemic, having obtainable hand sanitizer and/or wipes positioned on site of the outdoor classroom will allow students to disinfect surfaces shared by other classes before and after use. This will prevent germ spread and remove dirt from hands before returning inside. Sanitizer dispensers can be mounted to a centralized location via a stand, table, or post. 

Step 3 - Arranging the components to maximize safety and sanitation

           Although your classroom may be outdoors, there is still a need to abide by CDC guidelines when it comes to social distancing. In order to accomplish this, it is important to gather measurements of the total amount of space that you have available to you. Once this is done, examination of your seating solution is needed. You should determine, based on the type of product you are using, how many occupants it can hold while accounting for social distancing.

           With this information in hand, you are now able to determine class size by the number of seating products you are able to place within the total space available to you. CDC guidelines recommend a 6’ distance between students at all times. You can designate certain areas of the tables and benches for where students should sit by using a colorful tape to indicate boundaries. Maintaining the appropriate distance between tables depends on the surface they are placed. Tape or chalk would be excellent options for outdoor classrooms that are placed on asphalt or concrete surfaces, while spray paint or lawn stakes would be helpful for indicating where the outdoor classroom furniture should be placed on grassy surfaces.

Step 4 - Getting the most exposure for your outdoor classroom 

          Once the outdoor classroom is established and furnished, it is necessary to create a scheduling system to prevent class overlap. An outdoor classroom should be used as much as possible to limit the spread of airborne illnesses. Setting up a time slot protocol will ensure that the outdoor space is utilized at all times in the safest, orderly way possible. Additional staff can also be given a window between classes to sterilize the area while students are not present.

Outdoor Classrooms Long Term

          Besides being an innovative solution for schools during this year’s challenge, Outdoor Classrooms are an asset that can be utilized for many future classes. It may seem that moving to an outdoor classroom would be a net negative, however, studies have actually shown that up to 88% of teachers feel their students are more engaged in an outdoor learning environment compared to the traditional indoor setting (link). 

          As we continue to grapple with this pandemic, schools across the nation are beginning to adapt and implement outdoor classroom ideas. This process may seem straightforward on the surface, but there are a surprising number of factors to consider when beginning an outdoor classroom project. We created this guide to assist in these efforts and hope you found it useful. If you have any questions about acquiring the items necessary to create an outdoor classroom environment, give our friendly and professional support staff a call at 1-800-213-2401.

The world has changed dramatically since the outbreak of COVID-19. Fears about how germs and viruses spread continue to affect how we interact and do business.

Many Americans are uneasy about returning to work, shopping and leisure activities in a post-pandemic world. A nationwide poll by the Washington Post and University of Maryland found that 63% of respondents are still worried about infection and getting sick. A significant majority are concerned about the health risk posed by various businesses, including:

• Restaurants (74%)
• Retail stores (66%)
• Theaters (82%)
• Barber shops or hair salons (69%)
• Nail salons (74%)
• Gyms (78%)
• Golf courses (59%)

Why You Need to Reassure Customers That They're Safe

What can you do when so many Americans are concerned about activities that were once a routine part of their lives? It's essential for any business that serves the public to demonstrate it's safeguarding customers, even as restrictions are lifted.

This includes cleaning and disinfecting your premises regularly. You can also provide customers with a hand sanitation station so they can protect themselves if they feel vulnerable.

How a Sanitizing Station Puts Your Customers at Ease

COVID-19 and other viruses can spread when droplets land on objects such as tables, doorknobs and handrails after an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People who touch these surfaces and their faces are at risk of infection. Health authorities consistently remind us of the importance of washing hands regularly.

There's a risk of transmission in any public space where people gather or cross paths. Commercial sanitation stations stocked with antibacterial wipes are a simple and effective solution for cleaning hands and commonly touched surfaces when soap and water aren't available.

Providing your patrons with a plentiful, complimentary supply of commercial hand sanitizer lets them know you care about their well-being and have taken steps to protect their health. It also allows anxious customers to take precautions so they can better enjoy their experience in your place of business and feel confident in returning.

Where Can You Use a Sanitizing Station?

A free-standing hand sanitizer dispenser can be used indoors or outdoors and should be placed in high-traffic corridors or near entrances and exits.

Here are examples of places a customer may want to use industrial hand sanitizer:

• Grocery stores and retail: near carts, shopping baskets and self-service checkouts
• Fast-food restaurants and cafeterias: next to counters, seating and trash receptacles
• Public restrooms: next to sinks and counters
• Conference centers, shopping centers and commercial buildings: beside elevators, escalators, water fountains, vending machines, food service areas and lounges
• Fitness centers and spas: in change rooms, foyers and common areas
• Offices and workplaces: in boardrooms, meeting rooms and staff break rooms
• Municipal halls and community centers: next to service counters and along concourses
• Museums, galleries and libraries: in high-traffic spaces, seating areas and children's play zones
• Gas stations: next to gas pumps and tire pumps
• Schools and day cares: in classrooms and hallways
• Stadiums and theaters: near refreshment stands, entrances to seating areas and exits
• Hotels and resorts: in busy areas such as gyms, pool decks, outdoor patios and lounges
• Nursing homes and assisted living communities: in dining rooms, atriums and other common areas
• Medical clinics and dental offices: in waiting rooms

Choosing a Sanitizing Station for Your Business

Furniture Leisure offers a selection of hand sanitation stations made with durable, high-grade aluminum. They're finished with attractive, easy-to-clean coatings and provide a professional complement to your decor.

• Floor-standing models dispense wipes through an opening at the top. The cover is securely fastened and stays in place when wipes are pulled out. The bottom portion of the dispenser has space for extra wipes or a trash receptacle.
• A combination wipe dispenser with attached trash receptacle is an effective solution for those who prefer storage space and a disposal bin.
• Wall-mounted wipe dispensers are ideal for businesses with limited floor space and can be placed on a wall, column or fixture. Brackets and hardware are included for mounting.

Sanitizing stations can be stocked with FDA-approved wipes that are pre-saturated with water, alcohol and aloe and kill up to 99.9% of common germs. They're also free of ammonia and bleach so they're safe to use on hands.

Reducing the Spread of Germs is a Long-Term Goal

Recovery from the pandemic won't be immediate. According to a Gallup poll, 40% of Americans believe it's going to take a long time for society to fully return to normal activities. Additional waves of infections are possible, which means it's critical that everyone continues to be vigilant about cleanliness and hygiene.

Customers need the peace of mind knowing the businesses and services they patronize are safe. Providing a hand sanitizer dispenser on your premises assures your clients and staff that their health is a priority and that your business is taking all necessary steps to protect their health and well-being.

Dear Customers & Friends,

We realize the COVID-19 situation is presenting many new and unforeseen challenges in our industry. As we progress through this crisis together I wanted to take a moment to update you on our response and current status:

1. Our office and sales team remain online and ready to serve you. We have instructed all staff to assume a working from home role so communications may be slightly delayed however we remain open and available via telephone, email or live chat. 

2. 95%+ of our warehouses are still shipping and processing orders at this time. In order to comply with CDC guidelines some locations may be on a “skeleton crew” to ensure the safety and health of the production and warehouse staff. If your order experiences a delay for any reason rest assured we will contact you immediately. 

3. With the situation rapidly evolving on how states and municipalities are responding to this crisis we encourage you to check with your local health and safety public officials to ensure your order can be received without issue and your address will be serviceable.

Rest assured the team here at Furniture Leisure is ready to help serve you and your business needs through this uncertain time. We wish you and your family safety, health and happiness!

Sincerely,

Paul Hart

President
Furniture Leisure, Inc.

Recent events from the Coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic has put into perspective how important it is to protect ourselves through awareness and sanitation. With the virus spreading at a rapid pace, efforts need to be taken now and in the future to keep people safe. It has been demonstrated that the COVID-19 along with other viruses and bacteria can remain infectious on surfaces, sometimes for days at a time. Even non-porous materials such as stainless steel and plastics can become an intermediary for harmful pathogens. This is why cleaning is so important for venues like hotels, HOAs, waterparks, theme parks, and other locations with people coming in contact with common surfaces, most notably doors, counters, and furniture. Outdoor furniture, such as picnic tables, benches, chaise lounges, patio chairs, and more, needs to be wipe down routinely for the patrons’ protection as people may overlook cleanliness for comfort in haste. Here are some sanitary measures that can be taken to ensure a healthy experience for valued guests.

Direct Sunlight – UV rays are nature’s natural disinfectant. However, the strength and inconsisteny of the sunlight isn’t the greatest solution when it comes to stopping the spread of germs on outdoor furniture. Direct sunlight will eventually destroy viruses and bacteria as long as water, oils, and skin don’t interfere while the sun does its job. It could take up to an hour in ideal condition for the sunrays to eliminate all viral bug that may be looming on your furniture.

Dish Soap and Water – We recommend cleaning outdoor furniture with dish soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush to remove unwanted dirt, oils, and chemicals that could otherwise sun-bake into the material over time making it look grungy and old. But soap and water also play an extraordinary role in the fight against viruses and bacteria. It doesn’t kill the germs, but lifts and removes them from the surface altogether, making it a cost-effective solution that is safe to use around the public and in any environment.

Bleach and Water – When it comes to disinfecting there is no better agent than bleach. Bleach can kill bacteria, viruses, microorganisms, molds, and fungi without much effort. The recommended mixture is ½ cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water. Be sure to test the bleach mixture on a small portion of the material before fully cleaning your outdoor furniture. It is considered a harsh chemical and can harm certain materials. Let it sit for five minutes before rinsing clean for the best sterilization. Also note that it can damage skin and dyes in clothing, so make sure to wear protective gloves and gear while cleaning and discourage guests from using until the bleach is thoroughly rinsed.  

Consistency – It is always important to be consistent and vigilant when reducing the threat of pathogens, especially in heavily populated locations. It may benefit businesses and guests to have one or two maintenance staff during business hours repeatable wipe down all furniture to reduce the chance of infection. This also gives a positive image to the hospitality business as they make it a priority to keep their property clean and patrons safe and healthy.  As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

As we recover from this dangerous pandemic, we can take away the importance of how to protect ourselves and one another by taking crucial measures in sanitation. With a combined effort, we can lead happy, healthier lives without fear.

What Is an ADA Picnic Table?

As a purchaser of public-space furniture, you need to understand the subtle technical differences between commercial ADA picnic tables and "ordinary" wheelchair accessible picnic tables. If you downplay the importance of ADA guidelines for picnic tables, there exists the possibility of damaging your organization's professional reputation among wheelchair users. Non-compliance can also lead to unwanted legal actions, such as disability discrimination lawsuits as well as citations and fines if your property is ever audited.

What Does ADA Wheelchair Accessible Mean?

The purpose of ADA picnic tables is to ensure that wheelchair users have adequate seating opportunities. ADA compliance can also require ensuring an appropriate number of picnic tables are available based on the size and scope of the public space. Moreover, ADA accessible picnic tables must be available for everyone's use and not only for people seated in wheelchairs; it's illegal to segregate wheelchair users from the general seated public.

ADA picnic tables have specific regulatory guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act and upheld by the United States Department of Justice – Civil Rights Division. These ADA guidelines for picnic tables include precise measurements and strict specifications. Creating space at a picnic table to fit a wheelchair doesn't necessarily make it ADA-compliant.

What Are ADA Picnic Table Requirements?

Generally speaking, ADA picnic tables need to have one seat removed or one side of their benches shorter to ensure that wheelchair users can easily approach the table and fit comfortably. ADA picnic table requirements can vary from state to state, so it's important to do your homework before making your final purchase.

The basic guidelines stated on the ADA.gov website are as follows:

• Surface table height: 34" maximum, 28" minimum above the floor
• Knee clearance: 27" minimum (between the floor and the underside of the table)
• Clear floor area: 30" by 48" at each seating space with at least one fully unobstructed side and an accessible route to get there
• Leg and knee extension clearance: at least 19" from the edge of the table inward
• 36" cleared ground space around the table's perimeter, measured from the back edge of the bench
• If a wall or other obstruction is present at a fixed table location, a 36" minimum space must be created to provide a wheelchair accessible route to the seating location.
• In locations where tables are fixed to a wall or a floor, 5% of the tables should be ADA-compliant; if there are less than 20 tables, then at least one ADA table must be provided
• Tables must be set on firm, stable, and slip-resistant ground space

There should always be enough space at an ADA-compliant picnic table to ensure that people who are seated in wheelchairs can enjoy and participate in conversations from wherever they're positioned.

Types of ADA Tables

Commercial picnic tables can be found everywhere: restaurants, water parks, amusement parks, public parks, outdoor seating areas, school lunchrooms, shopping malls, homeowner associations, and any public sitting area. In fact, there are so many styles available that it's worth taking the time to do research before making a considerable investment to ensure you purchase handicap accessible picnic tables that comply with your state's ADA stipulations.

ADA picnic tables come in all the same designs as standard commercial picnic tables and are available in a variety of shapes, including round, hexagonal, square, rectangular, and octagonal. Commercial ADA picnic tables come in three general design options that offer wheelchair accessibility: single end access, double end access, and side access. They are made from wood, aluminum, plastisol, thermoplastic, fiberglass, concrete, and recycled materials. Regardless of the shape or material, all ADA-compliant handicap accessible picnic tables should have an extended tabletop to provide sufficient room for wheelchair access when necessary.

By now, it should be clear that wheelchair accessible picnic tables are not necessarily considered to be ADA-compliant and that many factors come into play. As you make your decisions, keep in mind that landscaping and space constraints can affect your choices. Be sure to communicate any concerns or questions regarding ADA-compliant picnic tables to a knowledgeable furniture supplier who specializes in ADA specs and regulations.