How do stretch tents work?

We explain the simplicity of the stretch tent success story.

How do stretch tents work? We explain.
A 20x15m chino stretch tent set up for an event in Mauritius.

The stretch tent market has grown to be a massive industry in South Africa. So much so, that most of us will see one almost on a daily basis! Whether it be at sporting events like the J&B Met, wedding venues like Au de Hex, or outdoor festivals like Rocking the Daisies, stretch tents are (literally) all over the “show”.

Initially recognised by event organisers as the alternative to standard PVC marquees; home and restaurant owners alike have now come to realise what these beautiful, yet functional, structures can do for an outside seating area.

Before making the decision to buy one yourself, be it for your tent rental fleet, home or business, you may want to know more about how stretch tents work.

So, just how do stretch tents work?

The foundation of the stretch tent success story lies in its simplicity. There are only three elements at work when setting up a stretch tent: 1) take elastomeric, waterproof fabric that stretches in both directions, 2) secure the perimeter, 3) then shape as desired with different length poles at the edges and in the middle.

This basic philosophy proves that stretch tents can be set up in any way desired, perfectly suiting the style of an event or to create the desired ambiance in a restaurant or home.

Answering some of the frequently asked questions about RHIs stretch tents explains in detail how stretch tents work.

Popular FAQs about RHI stretch tents

  1. Are stretch tents waterproof?
    100%! RHI stretch tents are made to endure the most extreme weather conditions, come rain or shine.
  2. Are stretch tents fire retardant?
    Yes. RHI stretch tents meet all the safety requirements of the countries they are shipped to and meet international fire and safety regulations.
  3. Is a set footprint required to set up a stretch tent?
    No. Stretch tents can be set up almost anywhere and in any space. The options are endless.
  4. Can the same stretch tent be set up in different ways?
    Absolutely. Simply by changing which corners and sides are pegged to the ground, and incorporating different pole lengths, you have a completely different look and feel.
  5. Are stretch tents difficult to set up?
    Not at all. Half a day’s training with a few key pointers will enable you to set up a stretch tent of any size.
  6. Can stretch tents be joined together?
    Most definitely. RHI stretch tents are modular in design, which means that multiple tents can be joined together to create larger structures.
  7. What colours are stretch tents available in?
    All our tents are available in either white, platinum, chino, red and black. However, any other colour may be requested subject to a minimum order.
  8. Can stretch tents be branded?
    Certainly. RHI uses in-house developed printing techniques to ensure only the best quality print.
  9. What size stretch tents are available?
    Whilst our more popular sizes are 10.5m x 7.5m (Small), 10.5m x 15m (Medium) and 21m x 15m (Large) RHI manufacturers a wide range of sizes from 6m x 5m to our largest single tent being 25.5m x 18m
  10. Is it possible to manufacture a custom stretch tent, and what does it involve?
    Yes, Custom bespoke Stretch tents are available upon request. With our in-house Engineering expertise, we offer engineering analysis checks, design, and manufacture spectacular custom bespoke stretch structures for our clients.
  11. Can RHI Stretch tents be closed on all sides?
    Absolutely, RHI’s Modular Walling and Dooring Systems are simple to install, modular in design and are the perfect solution to extending the use of your RHI stretch tents into the colder months.
  12. How do I decide what size stretch tent or stretch marquee I need?
    Refer to our standard tent sizes and tent specifications.

If you would like to know more about how stretch tents work, speak to one of our experts. Or if you want more information, request a quote.