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5 Things to Consider with Shade Sails

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Shade sails are increasingly popular in Australian homes, not just public places like plazas and school playgrounds where you only used to see them. If you are considering making more shade in your garden, then a shade sail is one of the best ways you can go about this. However, there are some considerations that all homeowners should have in the back of their mind when it comes to these useful products. What are the most important ones?

Use Four or More Anchor Points

Some smaller shade sails use just three main anchor points to create a triangle of shade on the ground. This may not be enough depending on the orientation of your garden and how much of it faces north. With at least four anchor points, you will have a larger patch of shade for the size of the sail and you can also use it to form hyperbolic paraboloids from the material which is much more attractive than a sail that is set at one angle only. Your shade sail will look much more architecturally pleasing if you go for a greater number of anchor points.

Use Marine Grade Steel

Marine grade steel is more expensive but longer lasting. It is helpful even if you don't live by the coast. This is especially the case for the eyelets of your shade sail which will be in constant movement against the wind and the sail's anchor points. Shade sail repairs are often needed when inferior eyelets fail.

Consider UV Light

Darker coloured shade sails absorb more ultraviolet light. If you choose a lighter colour, such as cream, then you will still get shade but more harmful rays from the sun will still get through. If you want UV protection as well as shading, then opt for darker tones for the shade sail.

Find Nearby Heat Sources

If you have a barbecue or an outdoor pizza oven close to the proposed site of your shade sail, then think about moving one or the other. Shade sails are not good with a direct flame beneath them or even close to their edge, depending on which way the wind is blowing. Avoid them being in close proximity, if possible.

Select Anti-Rip Material

Modern man-made fibres are best for shade sails. Canvas ones have a retro vibe but they tend to be very heavy, almost impossible to clean and will tear when they become stressed in high winds. Anti-rip, multi-weave materials used for real sails on yachts are much stronger and longer lasting.


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