Timber Canopies

Able Canopies’ timber canopies are robust and durable structures that feature Glulam timber which is sourced from PEFC accredited timber merchants and look fantastic in any commercial setting including against both modern and traditional buildings.

Timber Canopies for Schools and Commercial Settings

Our Tarnhow timber canopies create a modern yet natural look and feel to your environment whilst providing you with a safe, sheltered area. Each Tarnhow wooden canopy is constructed from Glulam timber which is sustainable, durable, fire resistant to BS 5268 and energy efficient to produce.

Tarnhow canopies are one of our most popular canopy products due to their attractive natural timber finish, and they are particularly suited to green areas such as public parks, golfing clubs, public gardens and nature reserves, they are also extremely popular for school outdoor dining canopies and holiday park outdoor dining canopies. View our video above to discover the full range and their features and benefits or keep scrolling.

The Benefits of a Glulam Timber Canopy

  • Modern, Striking Designs
  • Choice of Five Wall Mounted & Free Standing Canopies
  • Attractive Curved & Linear Wood Designs – Creates eye-catching canopies
  • Versatile – Can be used for a range of applicationsIncluding as a dining canopy, outdoor study canopy, covered play area & outdoor classroom
  • All Year Round Protection – Children can play & learn outside all year round whilst being protected from the elements such as rain, snow & sun
  • High UV protection against UV rays
  • Glulam Timber Frame Sourced from PEFC Accredited Timber Merchants
  • Timber Frame is Fire Resistant to BS 5268
  • Choice of Roofing – Choose from polycarbonate or tensile roof coverings
  • Environmentally Friendly – A standard steel beam takes 6 times the energy cost to produce, making our Glulam timber,beams much more environmentally friendly
  • Economical – Glulam is lighter in weight than similar materials resulting in less transport emissions
  • Approved Timber – Complies with the requirements of British Standard BS EN 386: 2001
  • Visible Timber Fixings – Leaves you with a flawless canopy that has an exclusive timber appearance

Timber Canopies systems

Why Choose Us as Your Wooden Canopy Supplier?

Our Tarnhow canopies are striking, modern designs that creates attractive timber canopies that offer a whole host of benefits. If you choose Able Canopies to design, manufacture & install your timber canopy, you will benefit from many features such as after sales care and unlimited advice before, during and after your canopy installation.

Your new timber canopy will be installed with minimal disruption to you and your setting by our fully trained, DBS checked fitting teams. You can rest assure that you will receive a comprehensive and professional service from all at Able Canopies.

We can provide you with structural calculations for any of our timber canopies as well as our other structures to verify that our timber canopies are fit for purpose and structurally safe for wind and snow loadings.

Timber Canopy Reviews

Please see below a selection of customer reviews for our timber canopies.

“Very professional and kept within timescale. Happy to recommend.”

Villiers High School, Middlesex 


“The installation was excellent. Everything was completed by very skilled and considerate workmen on time. I am very impress by both the quality of the product and the installation. I would certainly recommend and use able canopies again superb from Start to finish.”

Roughlee CE Primary School, Lancashire


“Good service very professional.”

Oakwood Primary School, Plymouth


“Efficient service – installation all ran to time; very pleased with the product (a re-order). All installers and staff were very helpful, brilliant service all round.”

– The Castle Primary School, Devon

View 1st Installation | View 2nd Installation


“Work completed to a high standard and quality work completed on time. Profession and respectful workmen which was appreciated at a family centre setting.”

Flying Start Family Centre, Vale of Glamorgan


“Site team were very helpful & co-operated with all logistics of work on site. They worked in a clean manor and completed all work to the agreed time scale.”

St Joseph’s RC Primary School, Vale of Glamorgan


“The new timber canopies are truly special & really enhance the experience of outdoor socialising for students. I would like to comment on what an excellent job your workmen have done and what a lovely group of workers they were. If I need any further canopies I will definitely be in touch!”

Carshalton High School for Girls, Surrey


“The team have been cooperative, worked flexibly with the school, communicated well with us and have been very hard working. We are very happy with the shelter, thank you.”

Redriff Primary School, London


“I can’t recommend your installation team high enough very impressive, thank you!”

Beaudesert Park School, Gloucestershire


“Great product, workmen were great to work with”

Trimsaran School, South Wales 


“A great service, excellent communication throughout a professional install and a great product.”

Rushcome First School, Dorset


To read more reviews for all our canopies and shelters, click here:
Able Canopies Reviews

Timber Canopy Transformations

Watch the videos below to see the impressive transformations our timber canopies can make.

The Spires College, Devon


Frome College, Somerset

Timber Canopies that Cover All Areas

Our Tarnhow Timber Canopies are extremely popular within many commercial settings including schools, holiday parks and visitor attractions. This is mainly down to their impressive appearance which is modern, yet soft and natural.

We’ve put together the main benefits of our commercial timber canopies and reasons why you need to add one to your latest outdoor project. Click here to discover why now: Timber Canopies that Cover All Areas

Timber Canopy FAQ’s

1. What is a glulam timber?

Glulam (glued laminated) timber is a high-performance engineered wood product made by bonding together layers of solid timber with durable, moisture-resistant adhesives. This process enhances the structural strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal of the timber.

Glulam is commonly used in architectural and structural applications because it combines the natural beauty of wood with excellent load-bearing properties. It is also highly sustainable, as it uses smaller pieces of wood to create large, strong beams with minimal waste.

2. Why should I choose a timber canopy?

Timber canopies offer a natural, aesthetic charm that complements various environments, from schools and parks to commercial spaces. Key benefits include:

  • Durability: Timber, especially glulam, is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
  • Sustainability: Responsibly sourced timber is eco-friendly and renewable.
  • Customisation: Timber canopies can be designed to suit various sizes and styles.
  • Versatility: Suitable for a range of applications, from walkways to outdoor dining areas.

3. Are timber canopies weather-resistant?

Yes, timber canopies are highly weather-resistant when properly treated and maintained. Glulam timber is particularly resistant to moisture, warping, and cracking, making it suitable for outdoor use. Additionally, our timber canopies are designed with protective finishes to enhance their durability and performance in varying weather conditions.

4. Do timber canopies require much maintenance?

Timber canopies require minimal maintenance. Routine care typically involves:

  • Cleaning the surface to remove dirt and debris.
  • Annually inspecting for signs of wear or damage, such as scratches or weathering.
  • Reapplying protective coatings every 4-5 years, depending on exposure to the elements.

5. Are timber canopies environmentally friendly?

Yes, timber is a renewable resource, and we source our materials from sustainably managed forests. Glulam timber also maximises material efficiency by using smaller pieces of wood, reducing waste. Its long lifespan and low energy production process further contribute to its eco-friendliness.

6. Can timber canopies be customised?

Absolutely. Our timber canopies can be tailored to your specific requirements, including:

  • Size and dimensions.
  • Style and design.
  • Choice of finishes and treatments.

7. How long do timber canopies last?

We supply our timber canopies with a life expectancy of 15 years however, with proper care and maintenance, a timber canopy can last for decades. The durability of glulam timber and its protective finishes ensures a long service life.

8. Are timber canopies suitable for commercial use?

Yes, our timber canopies are commercial grade structures and are perfect for use within schools, holiday parks, retail spaces, and more. They provide functional shelter while adding a natural, welcoming aesthetic to any environment.

9. What types of projects are timber canopies used for?

Timber canopies are versatile and can be used for:

  • Outdoor dining areas.
  • Playgrounds and school shelters.
  • Outdoor classrooms
  • Waiting areas and seating spaces.
  • Covered walkways.