If you’re an architect or local council, and you’re having (or considering) a bike storage shelter installation, there are some things you should look out for. We’ve put together a short list of what you should look for.
Your bike storage shelter is likely going to live outside. The outside brings an extra challenge in the form of weather and vandalism. Your new storage must live up to the demand.
Bike storage is secure by design, but make sure it’s properly weatherproofed
When providing cycle parking in an external space, it is preferable to consider some form of weather protection or security for the racks.
A wide selection of specifications are available, ranging from basic quarter circle shelters through to bespoke cycle hubs.
When selecting a shelter, it is essential to consider the following factors:
- Check the supplier is galvanising as standard, powder coating over a non-galvanised shelter will not protect it from rust.
- Fixing a cycle shelter below the surface in concrete foundations should be your preference. Root mounting prevents any risk of strong winds damaging the fixings and creates a far more durable structure to withstand the elements than surface mounting.
- What roofing or cladding materials are being used? Cheap cladding will significantly shorten the lifespan of a shelter.
- Is the shelter you are looking at making the most of the available space? Most shelters are based on standardised designs, whereas some manufacturers design their products to fit around the bicycle parking, maximising space.
- Do you require a secure compound? If so, a cost-effective option may be to fit gates to the front of an existing shelter. Always ask the manufacturer if they can adapt the design to suit your space and needs.
