Shade Sails
case, it is also possible to position them flat or twisted into a hyperbolic paraboloid (also known as a hypar twist). This three-dimensional shape is achieved by attaching one or two corners higher than the other corners. The benefit of a twist is a greater distribution of surface tension and a stronger shade sail overall. The end result is also beautiful aesthetically.
A Modern Addition to Your Outdoor Space
If you’ve been thinking about ways to add more shade to your outdoor space this spring, a shade sail is a great solution to consider. These beautiful backyard canopies come in several colours and shapes and will block out harmful UV rays while creating a touch of modern elegance for your outdoor area. Most shade sails are made of tightly woven, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Vinyl, or nylon fabric. Shade sails are installed by stretching the fabric and using tension to attach the corners of the shade to a stable structure (such as a roof, post, wall, or tree) via stainless steel D-rings and turnbuckles (stainless steel devices to adjust tension). When professionally installed, shade sails should provide a perfectly taut canopy. Shade sails come in a variety of shapes and styles but are typically installed in
three shapes: triangle, square, and rectangle. Like sunscreen, shade sails are designed to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Beyond UV protection, shade sails are built to withstand varied weather conditions, especially rain and wind. Although HDPE material is the most common fabric used, PVC is often substituted. Although it is less breathable, it is 100% waterproof. This is helpful if you want to use your shade sail during summer showers. In this case, you will need to position your sail at a slant, so it doesn’t collect water (leading to a heavy, sagging canopy). Both rectangle and triangle shade sails are often installed at a slant to prevent rainwater from pooling. However, as we stated earlier, many residential shade sails are made with HDPE material, allowing water to pass through. In this
For another bold architectural effect, try installing overlapping shade sails. This extends your shady area without putting too much tension onto a single, big sail. When installing overlapping sails, make sure you leave a minimum of 12 inches between them. If not, wind and weather conditions can cause the sails to rub against each other, damaging the fabric over time. For more information or a no obligation price estimate to install Shade Sails on your home or business here on the Sunshine Coast, contact Mike at “Sombra Outdoor Living” Call 866 SombraO (766-2720). www.sombraoutdoorliving.com
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