1. Introduction: More Than Just Rain Cover
In the UK, when people think about outdoor shelters, rain is usually top of mind. But with summers growing warmer and UV exposure becoming a bigger concern, outdoor shelters are increasingly important for providing shade and improving comfort. From schools and healthcare sites to offices and industrial units, these structures do more than protect from showers — they make outdoor spaces safer and more usable in hot weather.
One key area where this is especially relevant is smoking shelters. These designated outdoor spaces not only ensure legal compliance and cleaner environments but also serve as a place of relief from the summer sun. In this blog, we explore the multi-functional value of shelters, particularly smoking shelters, and how they can transform your facility’s outdoor offering.
2. Why Shade Matters in the Summer Months
2.1. Protecting People’s Wellbeing
While the UK may not have tropical summers, we’ve seen a noticeable rise in hot spells in recent years. Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause heat-related illness, dehydration, and sunburn, even during short breaks. Providing shaded areas helps protect staff, customers, and visitors — offering a cool, comfortable spot to rest.
2.2. Encouraging Use of Outdoor Areas
Without shade, outdoor spaces become unbearable on hot days. A simple shelter can extend the usability of courtyards, entrances, and smoking areas throughout the warmer seasons, encouraging people to make use of them all year round.
2.3. Protecting Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
Sunlight doesn’t just affect people — it also takes a toll on surfaces and materials. UV rays can cause fading, warping, and cracking. Installing shelters with UV-resistant roofing materials can protect benches, bins, flooring, and signage from long-term damage.
3. The Dual Purpose of Smoking Shelters
At Tamstar, we design and supply robust smoking shelters that comply with UK legislation and add real value beyond the legal minimum. While the law requires these shelters to be at least 50% open for ventilation, it’s still possible to design them for effective shading and comfort.
3.1. Year-Round Functionality
Our shelters are built to provide cover in all seasons. In summer, they block direct sunlight and harmful UV rays. In winter, they shield users from rain and wind. This dual-purpose makes them a smart investment for any organisation.
3.2. Built for Durability and Comfort
Using galvanised steel and clear UV-stabilised polycarbonate roofing or White opal finish polycarbonate, our smoking shelters are designed for long-lasting performance. Polycarbonate is a great option because it filters UV while allowing light through, creating a shaded but not gloomy space. It also offers high impact resistance against wind damage or vandalism.
3.3. Enhanced Site Image
A well-placed, modern smoking shelter reflects a business that cares about comfort, cleanliness, and legal compliance. It avoids staff or visitors smoking near entrances or high-traffic areas and keeps your premises tidy and professional.
4. Where to Position Shelters for Maximum Summer Shade
Positioning is everything when it comes to getting the most out of your shelter during the summer months.
- Avoid East- or West-facing Entrances: These areas get the most direct sun early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Shelters placed here should have partial side panelling or tinted roofs to block low-angle rays.
- Choose South-facing Walls: For maximum shading, positioning a canopy or smoking shelter along a south-facing wall will block midday sun, which is typically the hottest part of the day.
- Think About Wind and Airflow: For smoking shelters, good airflow is a legal and practical requirement. Ensure your structure remains at least 50% open, while still allowing for partial side panels or screens to provide shade.
- Provide Seating and Bins: Encourage appropriate use with benches, cigarette bins, and clear signage. Making the space comfortable means it’s more likely to be respected and used properly.
5. Benefits of Installing Smoking Shelters with Shade in Mind
5.1. Boosts Morale and Comfort
Breaks are essential, especially in stressful or high-output working environments. A shaded shelter gives staff a comfortable space to recharge, helping to maintain wellbeing and productivity.
5.2. Reduces Litter and Smoking Near Entrances
A designated, comfortable smoking area naturally draws people away from doorways or high-traffic paths. This helps reduce second-hand smoke exposure for non-smokers and keeps your entrances clean and inviting.
5.3. Supports Health and Safety Compliance
By offering a safe, shaded smoking area, your site demonstrates proactive care for health and safety. This is particularly important in public and private sectors like education, healthcare, and manufacturing, where facility standards are regularly inspected.
5.4. Encourages Better Use of Outdoor Spaces
Even outside of smoking needs, shelters can be multipurpose. Add a bench or reposition them during off-seasons, and they become shaded waiting areas, bike storage points, or breakout zones for staff on hot days.
6. Choosing the Right Smoking Shelter for Summer
Tamstar offers a wide range of smoking shelters designed to suit various business types, site sizes, and weather conditions. Some of our most popular summer-ready features include:
- UV-Stabilised Roofing Sheets: For sun protection without losing light.
- Freestanding or Wall-Mounted Designs: To suit large open spaces or tight courtyards.
- Custom Sizes: So you can cater to small office teams or large factory workforces.
- Optional Side Panels: Offer added wind or sun protection while maintaining legal airflow.
- Ash Bins and Benches: Keeping the area tidy and usable for longer breaks.
Our shelters can be powder-coated in your preferred RAL colours, blending into your site or enhancing your brand visibility outdoors.
7. Summary: Don’t Wait for Rain to Act
Summer is no longer a mild season in the UK. With longer heatwaves and more unpredictable weather, it’s time to think about outdoor shelter not just as protection from rain, but as protection from heat and UV as well.
Smoking shelters offer more than compliance—they can improve your site’s comfort, usability, and appearance year-round. By investing in a shaded, durable, and well-positioned shelter, you’re making a smart choice for your staff, your visitors, and your premises.
8. Get Started with Tamstar
At Tamstar, we specialise in supplying high-quality outdoor shelters, including smoking shelters, cycle canopies, and walkways. All our shelters are manufactured using durable materials with British weather in mind.
✅ Fast delivery across the UK
✅ Custom colours and sizes available
✅ Designed for minimal maintenance
✅ Optional installation support
Need advice?
We’re happy to help. Whether you’re looking to meet smoking legislation, improve outdoor comfort, or just create a tidier and more usable exterior space, we’ve got a shelter to suit your needs.