Fabric Building Re Covers: How to Choose the Right Contractor for the Job

If your structure is showing signs of wear, it might be time to consider a re-cover. Fabric building re-covers are one of the most cost-effective ways to extend the life of your building, without starting from scratch. But here’s the catch: not every contractor is equipped to do it right.

At Britespan, we’ve seen firsthand how a re-cover can add decades to a building’s lifespan. We’ve also seen what happens when it’s handled by someone without the right experience. If you’re thinking about replacing your fabric cover, here’s what you need to know about selecting a contractor who can do the job properly.

What Exactly is a Fabric Building Re-Cover?

A re-cover involves removing the existing fabric membrane, inspecting the structural frame, and installing a brand-new cover. It might sound simple, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes, from assessing frame integrity to ensuring a proper fit based on original specs.

That’s why it’s important to work with professionals who understand fabric building systems inside and out.

What Should You Ask Before Hiring a Contractor?

There are a few key questions to bring up before signing anything. Your contractor should be ready to answer them clearly and confidently.

Do you have experience with my specific building type?

Not all fabric structures are the same. Some brands have unique frames, measurements, or engineering specs. Whether you’re re-covering a Britespan building or another model like a Cover-All, make sure your contractor has hands-on experience with that particular system. This ensures the new cover is tensioned correctly and safely secured.

Will you inspect the steel frame before re-covering?

A proper re-cover isn’t just about the fabric. The contractor should inspect the steel frame for signs of wear, corrosion, or structural movement. Even high-quality galvanized frames can shift slightly over time, especially in harsh environments. If those changes aren’t addressed, the new cover might not fit correctly, or worse, it could be at risk of damage later on.

Can you read and work from the original engineered drawings?

Your contractor should know how to interpret your building’s original specs. That includes dimensions, tensioning systems, and anchoring details. This isn’t just helpful, it’s essential for an accurate fit.

Do you offer a warranty on your work and materials?

A reputable contractor should provide a clear warranty. This shows confidence in their workmanship and in the quality of the replacement cover. At Britespan, our fabric covers come with long-term warranties, and we stand behind every installation our certified dealers complete.

What Else Should You Know Before the Re-Cover Starts?

Re-covering a building involves more than just stretching new fabric. It’s a process, and good contractors walk you through it step by step.

What kind of access do they need?

Ask how the installation team will access both the inside and outside of your building. If you’re using the space to store equipment, livestock, or sensitive materials, you’ll want to plan ahead to minimize disruption.

What’s the timeline?

If your current cover is torn or compromised, time matters. Ask when the team can get started and how long the re-cover will take. A delay of even a few weeks could increase the risk of weather damage or interior exposure.

What’s included in the cost?

The quote should include everything: labor, materials, hardware, and travel time. If you’re replacing a hoop building cover, for example, you should see clear pricing for fabric type, building size, and installation. A good contractor won’t leave you guessing.

Why Not Just Replace the Whole Building?

Some companies may suggest removing the entire structure and starting over. While that might be necessary in rare cases, it’s not the norm, and it’s often not cost-effective. A high-quality steel frame can last 30 to 50 years or more with minimal maintenance. Replacing just the cover is faster, cheaper, and significantly less disruptive.

And with Britespan’s fabric building re-cover solutions, your structure will look and perform like new, without rebuilding from the ground up.

Why Trust Britespan with your Re-Cover Project?

We’ve built our reputation on delivering safe, durable, code-compliant fabric buildings, and we apply that same care to every re-cover project. Our trained dealer network knows how to work with existing structures, inspect for hidden damage, and properly tension your new cover.

We don’t just sell covers. We help extend the life of your entire structure, so you can keep using it for years to come.

Ready To Give Your Fabric Building a Second Life?

Whether your current cover is torn, faded, or simply nearing the end of its warranty, Britespan is here to help. Our re-cover services are built around your schedule, your building, and your long-term goals. Reach out today to speak with a Britespan expert. We’ll connect you with a qualified dealer who can assess your structure, walk you through the re-cover process, and give you a quote that makes sense.