Clients ask us the same question every quote: how long does the fabric really last? The honest answer is that the modern PVC-coated polyester membrane used on Building Depot engineered fabric building buildings is engineered for 25+ years, and we have Ontario installations from the early 2000s still going strong on original cover.
What the Membrane Is
A high-tenacity polyester base fabric, coated both sides with PVC, and topped with a clear UV-protective lacquer. The PVC handles weather, water, and chemical exposure; the polyester carries structural load; the lacquer slows UV degradation.
The 25-Year Pro-Rated Warranty
The warranty covers loss of tensile strength below engineered minimums. It is pro-rated — meaning at year 15 you'd recover roughly 40% of replacement cost if the membrane failed within warranty parameters. Manufacturing defects in years 1-5 are typically covered at 100%.
Annual Maintenance Checklist
- Visual inspection from inside and outside — tears, abrasion, loose hardware
- Re-tension fabric where slack has developed (typically year 5-7)
- Clean drains, gutters, and ventilation
- Check anchor bolts and base connections
- Touch up any nicks on galvanized steel
When Replacement Makes Sense
Most Ontario clients budget for a membrane re-skin at year 20-25 as preventive maintenance. The structural steel remains under warranty for 50 years, so a re-skin is essentially half the cost of a new building.
Need a quote for your project?
Building Depot — Ontario's Authorized MegaDome Dealer. We'll scope your building, foundation and installation from a 10-minute conversation.
Get a Quote
