What to Consider When Choosing Shade Sails for Your Property

15 August 2018
 Categories: Home & Garden, Blog

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Shade sails are a great choice for any property, as these sails provide protection from the elements while also bringing in a bit of style and colour to a space. Shade sails are also available in a wide range of sizes and are usually triangular or square, so they can be stretched over a large playground or small patio. When choosing shade sails for your home or any other property, note a few details to consider first so that you can find sails you'll love and are happy with for years to come.

Sunlight

Consider the direction of the sun when choosing the size, shape, and location of your shade sail, and remember to note how this direction changes throughout the year. For example, you may not need to worry about the direction of sunlight on a playground during summer months if the school is closed and doesn't offer summer activities. However, you may use a backyard patio the most during summertime, so it's vital to note where the sun is positioned during those warm summer months!

A triangular shade sail may not offer enough sun protection during certain times of the year, especially during summer when the sun is its brightest. On the other hand, a smaller shade sail may be sufficient for an outdoor area that is only used during certain months every year.

Rain

If you're choosing a shade sail for an area that is prone to a lot of rain, you might opt for a triangular shape rather than a square. A triangle shade sail is often easier to curve and bend so that rainwater slides off the top of the sail, rather than pooling in the middle. Having rainwater slide off the sail will mean less risk of water damage to the material. You can even create trenches on your property to capture and store that rainwater or direct it to a nearby flowerbed!

Colour and mesh

A lighter shade sail might not add much personality to your outdoor space, but a dark colour may trap heat near the sail, making the space uncomfortable during summer months. In the same way, a nylon tarp may block more rain and heat from getting through the shade sail, but it may also trap heat, especially if you cook or have a fire pit under the sail. A loose weave canvas material might let some rainwater through the sail during a strong storm, but it might also let out heat and create a more comfortable space under the sail.