ARCHITECTURAL SHADE STRUCTURES FOR HOA’S INCREASING AND ENHANCING YOUR RECREATIONAL AMENITIES BY: MR. RICK REINMUTH, SOCAL SHADE SAILS
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ith increased awareness of harmful UV rays and the pandemic pushing more activities outside, many HOAs are now looking at ways to create safe and comfortable outdoor recreational areas to help their homeowners and guests find relief from the sun, solar radiation, and the blistering summer temperatures. Protection from the sun can be a very important health and safety amenity and in some cases be a true lifesaver.
The Sun’s Harmful Impacts It is important to be mindful of the potential harmful impacts of our weather because UV light can not only damage skin and cause skin cancer, but it can also damage interior and exterior merchandise or furnishings. Many communities have wonderful outdoor playgrounds and recreational amenities without any shade protection, so it is important to be mindful of some important safety data. Several studies have determined that rubber and plastic surfaces exposed to the sun can exceed 160 degrees Fahrenheit. At those temperatures, it takes only three seconds to inflict second-degree burns and five seconds for third-degree burns. However, when covered by a protective shade that blocks direct sunlight, the temperatures on those same surfaces stay at a safe 90 degrees. 10 |
CONNECT MAGAZINE • ISSUE FOUR 2021
