Having outdoor fabric shade structures is the best option if you want to make the most out of your outdoor area. There are different choices available, like umbrellas, but they are really not effective. They can be a hassle during strong rains or winds.
There are many colors and designs available when it comes to shade sails. In terms of shapes, there are three common shapes: triangular, square, and rectangular shade sails. Every shape has practical implications and has its own pros and cons.
Rectangular or Square Shade Sails
They are perfect if you want to cover a big area. Note that the bigger your shade sail is, the more anchor points should be stronger. Your poles must be dug at least four feet in the ground, depending on how big your area is. You need to consult engineers to know the exact depth for structural stability. These shade sails may tend to balloon or sag in the middle due to a lack of tension or water collected on the shade.
Square and rectangular shade sails differ in size. You can even request a customized size depending on the area that you will cover. It is best to install them in a hypar layout to increase tension. This will help rainwater to slide down instead of accumulating in the center of the sail. It will also increase the longevity of the sail. It also provides a nice style in your space.
Triangular Shade Sails
You’d need a lot of them to cover a big area. Covering an area using two or more triangular sails could show a gap between two shades due to the shape. Rain may seep from these gaps. They are ideal for smaller areas since they can be rearranged in different ways. They can be played around with creatively and can be an architectural discussion in your place. You don’t have to worry about sagging or ballooning because they can keep tension better in a natural manner. Installation is also faster and simpler.
A three-sided shade sail is quite flexible, which is why it’s the best choice when your area is small or narrow. It only has one fixing point, so you can get creative during installation. It has an unlimited design that can provide its user. You can layer with two or more triangular sails. The only disadvantage is that it is usually too small to cover a bigger area. You will need two or more shade sails to ensure that the entire area is fully protected.
Which shade sail should you use?
- Size of the area you want to cover. Stick with a rectangular or square-shaped shade sail if you want to cover a big area. Get an expert to install it to avoid any issues.
- Coverage. You want a shade sail that will provide you with maximum coverage.
- Function. Shade sails are used to protect you from harmful UV rays. These are also used as aesthetical focal points. If this is the case, use triangular shade sails.
When choosing an outdoor fabric shade structure, you must always deliberate on the functionality, benefits, and location of the installation. However, it will still come down to your personal preference.
ShadePro designs and sells only the highest quality permanent shade structures. Contact them here.