Rain or shine, shade sails are the ideal way to protect yourself from the weather. Custom shade sails are great entertainment spaces and make fun play areas for the kids. They are durable, cost effective and add a little style to an outdoor space. Before you buy, here’s what you need to know.

1.Can Shade Sails Withstand Wind?

Quality shade sails installed correctly will be able to withstand forceful winds. Once set up, the shade cloth is pulled under tension to create an extremely solid structure. As long as the fittings and attachments points are secure, a shade sail stays stable even during high winds.

2.Are Shade Sails Fully Waterproof?

Not all shade sails are fully waterproof. Many use a permeable material that allows heat to escape and keep the area under the shade cooler. These types of sail are shower proof but may let water drip through in heavy rain. For a completely waterproof shade sail, choose the DRIZ that features a waterproof coating.

3.How Much UV Protection Do Shade Sails Provide?

Shade sails were created in Australia to protect people from the suns harsh UV rays. Most absorb 90% or more harmful UV radiation. The weight, type of shade cloth and colour will vary the amount of UV protection a shade sail gives. For example, the DRIZ shade sail gives 100% UVR protection and the eXtreme 32 95.8%.

4.What Types of Shade Sail Are Available?

Shade sails can be purchased in a variety of colours, shapes and materials. Common shade sail shapes are the triangle which is extremely stylish and the square or rectangle. Choose from a range of standard sizes and colours that are usually more affordable. Or, choose a custom shade sail that can be made to your exact dimensions, colour and even have branding attached (which is what a business may opt for).

5.What Size, Type and Shape of Shade Sail is Best?

There is no best size and shape for a shade sail. It really depends on where you intend to use the shade sail and what goals you have for it. Here are some things to think about:

  • Shape of the shade sail. Four sided square or rectangle shade sails give greater cover than a triangle sail. But, generally triangle shade sails are seen as more attractive. To use triangle shade sails over a larger area, multiple can be used side by side to cover a larger area.
  • Size of area you want to shade. If you use a large shade sail, remember this will need strong mounting points and a high tension rate. To cover a large area in a windy location, it may be better to use multiple small shade sails lined together that are less affected by the wind.

Type of shade sail material. The four best shade cloths offered by Rainbow Shade are the Z16 (excellent UV protection), the eXtreme32 (commonly used for commercial applications), the DRIZ (100% UV and waterproof protection) and the Serge Ferrari (best heavy duty fabric for businesses).