March 09, 2022 55 Comments
Shade sails have a unique set of attributes that makes them particularly advantageous for shading an outdoor area. As opposed to other shading structures (like pergolas, umbrellas, and covered porches), shade sails are made out of a breathable material that allows hot air to escape while still blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays. Because of this, shade sails can make an area up to 25% cooler than solid shade structures, and reduce the ambient temperature by at least 10°.
But the shade sail’s cooling power doesn’t stop at the outdoors - they can also help you stay cool inside. By inhibiting solar radiation, the solar heat gain that would otherwise contribute to higher indoor temperatures is reduced . This makes you less reliant on air conditioning on those hot summer days, which can save you money on electricity.
Aside from their functional attributes, shade sails are also:
Sun shade sails come in two primary shapes: square/rectangular and triangular. Each has their strengths and weaknesses, and the one you choose depends on whether you are using it primarily for form, function, or a combination of the two.
Not only are they pleasing to look at, but triangular shade sails are the perfect choice for shading smaller areas. Because of their smaller size they're also perfect as temporary outdoor shading solutions, as opposed to the larger rectangular sails (see below) that might require more sturdy supports. Triangles are also more popular as aesthetic fixtures for outdoor living spaces, making them an excellent focal point in your exterior design layout. While square and rectangular shade sails are better suited for larger areas, multiple triangles can be used in a wider variety of creative layouts.
If you’re looking to shade a large outdoor area, square or rectangular sails might be your best bet. Just be aware that because of their larger size, they may require sturdier support structures than their triangular counter-parts. You can also increase the strength of these sails by creating a three-dimensional effect or by attaching one corner significantly higher than the other corners. Not only does this make the sail stronger, but it provides a distinct and stunning look. Just like with triangular sails, you can also install squares at a slight vertical incline to prevent moisture accumulation and sagging.
The diverse design layouts available with square and triangular sails is truly remarkable. Below are the five most common layouts used in outdoor living spaces.
The parabolic design using a single square or rectangular shade sail is incredibly popular since it combines all the best shade sail elements: it looks great, it provides excellent shade coverage, and it’s more resistant to wind and rain than a flat, 2-dimensional layout. To accomplish this effect, you simply need to have two opposing corners secured at a low point the same distance off the ground, and the other two opposing corners secured at a higher point the same distance off the ground.
Combining multiple square or rectangular shade sails is a great way to shade a large area. To do so, you can either install the two shade sails side-by-side, or with a slight overlap. Overlapping the shade sails has the benefit of avoiding gaps in shade coverage that would otherwise exist with a side-by-side installation. When overlapping, it’s recommended to maintain at least a 12 inch distance between the sails to avoid damaging contact chafing between the fabrics.
Another attractive option is the slanted triangle. The angle provides aesthetic appeal while also allowing moisture run-off. It’s generally recommended to have a slope of at least 15 degrees to allow for the best run-off.
Multiple triangles can create unique, beautiful designs capable of covering spaces a single triangle or square couldn’t. Just like the squares and rectangles, you can attach them side-by-side or with a slight overlap. The same overlapping considerations apply for the triangles: maintain at least a 12 inch distance between the sails to avoid chafing.
There are several design layouts to choose from:
Combining squares and triangles creates a distinct appearance that can shade large, customized areas.
March 17, 2022
Good sun shade. Easy to install. We don’t keep it up in bad weather so it doesn’t get damaged but it works great to keep the deck cooler and the sun from broiling you.
March 17, 2022
This is the second one I’ve purchased. First one was for myself and this second one for my mother. I built her a pergola and placed this on top. Looks great !!!
March 17, 2022
Strong sturdy material. Also helps protect from rain.
March 17, 2022
This is my 2nd one. I love these! We use them for our goat pen to provide more shade.
March 14, 2022
This has helped so much in our AZ home blocking the afternoon sun. I’m bummed the price went up so much since I ordered because we would love a 2nd one to cover our kids playground.
March 14, 2022
I highly recommend this product. Please mark if you find my review helpful. Thank you so much!March 14, 2022
This shade sail is excellent. It is made of high quality materials and it is sewn well.
March 14, 2022
Love this shade sail! Perfect size, durable, and pleasing to the eye. It does the trick, and gives me the shade I needed. It was pretty easy to put up too. I would definitely recommend this product.
March 14, 2022
We needed to create shade in our backyard. Ended up buying multiple shades. They seem well constructed. We are pleased with them.
November 14, 2022 1 Comment
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Dan
March 17, 2022
The sail is really nice. It stretched and relaxed a little more than I was expecting