On your loading dock, shelters can keep your warehouse dry and comfortable, while helping you conserve energy and keep your building secure. Welch Equipment sells, installs and services products from the top producers of dock shelters in the country.
What Is A Dock Shelter?
Most dock shelters are constructed with a wood or metal frame that can be rigid or flexible. Fabric and/or fiberglass is generally attached to the perimeter and fabric curtains are mounted to the front of the shelter. These drapes seal the perimeter of the trailer when it’s up against the bay door opening. Generally, shelters are used for more substantial door frames, and in operations where there is more variability in truck sizes. Shelters can reach about 70% air flow efficiency.
Rigid Dock Shelter
By far the most popular, rigid shelters are widely utilized for large dimension openings in situations where there is high variability in trailer height and complete access to the back of the trailer is needed. Stiff head frames and sides are reinforced by steel supports that are generally configured with fiberglass surrounds to allow sunlight during daytime operations. The head frame also acts as a canopy to shelter the loading dock from rain and snow.
Inflatable Dock Shelter
Inflatable shelters, like rigid ones, surround the perimeter of the trailer allowing full entry to the trailer. Inflatable shelters use a blower to inflate once a truck is backed up to the dock door. These types of shelters are commonly part of an interlock system, along with the leveler and door, where the shelter will inflate only if the dock leveler and door are in the appropriate positions. Many sizes and shapes of inflatable shelters are available for all types of operations.
What’s The Difference Between A Dock Seal And Dock Shelter?
Seals are constructed with heavy duty fabric covered foam. They’re attached around the perimeter of a dock door. They allow for a firm seal when a trailer is against the door.
In contrast, dock shelters have a frame that surrounds the bay door opening with drapes mounted to the frame. When a trailer approaches the bay, the drapes surround the rear of the trailer and form a seal.
Dock Shelters Near Me
To learn more about dock shelter options and capabilities, get in touch with a loading dock equipment specialist at Welch Equipment today! Our team of highly trained experts can help with the design and specification of a wide range of dock equipment options.
