Shade Sails

Shade sails add a modern, stylish touch to an outdoor area. They're a great option when you are considering ways to provide shade. You'll be able to escape the harsh sun while still enjoying the feeling of being outdoors.

Here are some tips to consider when you're looking to buy and install a shade sail.

Shade Sail Fabric

Most shade sails block a percentage of UV rays from the sun and it is wise to select a shade sail that offers a high amount of UV protection. Check for fabric warranties against UV degradation. It's also good to have fabrics that can breathe as that will help keep you cooler.

Look carefully at the construction of different shade sails to find the quality that suits you. Read the packaging and look at the product thinking of the amount of shade you require and the shape. Consider also material and look for features like reinforced webbings on all edges and quality stainless steel D Rings on each corner too. These features help to prolong the life of the product.

Before you buy your shade sail, look carefully at where you can position it. Ensure all your fixing points are structurally sound. If you are fixing to a metal or timber facia, then facia supports (to a rafter/truss) are recommended. You can also erect your own support posts if required.

Do not use a fire (or patio heater) close to the fabric and do not use your barbeque under the shade sail.

Take your sail down in strong wind conditions.

Size and Shape of the Shade Sail
The position and distance of the structurally sound fixing (anchor) points will determine the size and shape of shade sail that you can purchase.

Measure the area that your shade sail needs to cover, from fixing point to fixing point. Your shade sail needs to be SMALLER than this area. On each corner of the sail you need to allow for a space between the sail tip and the fixing point that is at least 10% of the sail length. This will allow for enough room for fixing hardware, material stretch and tensioning of the sail.

Shade sails look better when their elevations change from corner to corner (some corners higher than others.) The slope on the shade sail also helps with water runoff.

When determining the position of your shade sail it is important to keep in mind that the sun is constantly moving from East to West and so the shade underneath your sail moves too. The shade is not always directly under the sail.