Are you looking for a shade solution for your outdoor areas? If yes, shade sails are the best option. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but also useful and functional. It is a common concern if shade sails are waterproof. Yes, they are waterproof, depending upon the material they are made, the assembly, location, and installation of the shade sales.
Shadescape Sails and Structures specialises in all kinds of shade sails including waterproof shade sails in melbourne. We have a highly competitive variety of shades in our inventory for you to choose from. Just get in touch with our customer care representatives and select the most appropriate shade sails for your application. From manufacturing, installation, and assembly to maintenance and damage repair, we got you all sorted!
Common Materials For Shade Sails
PVC or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are commonly used to make shade sails. HDPE is renowned for its permeability and UV resistance. On the other hand, because PVC is non-permeable, it is frequently used for waterproof applications. Whether or not a shade sail qualifies as waterproof depends largely on the material selection.
Polyethylene With A High Density
Water Resistance
UV protection is the main purpose of HDPE shade sails. They are not entirely waterproof, even if they are somewhat resistant to water. If the rain is heavy or persistent, it may initially bead up on the surface before gradually seeping through.
Breathability
By allowing moisture to escape, the breathable fabric keeps water from collecting on the sail. This is a useful feature for areas that don’t have frequent rainfall.
PVC Waterproof Quality
Because PVC shade sails are completely waterproof, they are perfect for locations where it rains a lot. Because of their sturdy design, water cannot pool up, keeping the shade dry.
Durability
PVC materials are usually stronger than HDPE, offering longer lifespans and higher resilience against weather.
Design-Related Issues
The design and installation of shades also determine if they would be waterproof or not. It’s important to maintain the tension properly. A shade sail may sag and get damaged if it is overly flat, allowing water to collect on top.
Here are some pointers for efficient installation and design
Tensioning
Make sure there is enough tension on the shade sail when it is installed to allow water runoff. If there’s a little slope, it will allow better drainage.
Angle
The assembly and instalment of shade sails are highly important. You must set the angle in such a way that the water drains properly and there’s no pooling in the shade. You can do it on your own as well, but it is better to hire a professional expert.
Grommets and Reinforcements
High-quality shade sails have grommets and reinforced edges to improve the structure and tension. Therefore, you must invest in high-quality shades according to your application requirements.
Performance in Different Weather Conditions
Light Rain
Although most HDPE sails are resilient to light rain, water may eventually leak through. In these circumstances, a PVC sail might work better and keep it dry.
Heavy Rain
PVC shade sails are the best option for heavy rains. They withstand heavy rains without losing functionality.
Wind Resistance
It’s important to install shade sails correctly to ensure that they can withstand wind. In strong winds, a poorly placed sail may flap or even tear.
Maintenance and Damage Repair
Regular maintenance is crucial to extending the life of your shade sails:
Cleaning
To avoid permanent stains and fungus, remove any debris from the shade as soon as possible. It is even better to wash it with a moderate amount of soap and water.
Look For Any Damage
Look for wear and tear, particularly around the grommets and seams. It is important to fix these damages as soon as possible so that you can avoid bigger losses in the long run.
Seasonal Care
If you are not using your shades, for example, due to extreme weather, it is better to take them down and store them in a safe place. Make sure you clean and dry them before storage.
Use Additional Waterproof Lining
If your shade sails are not waterproof, you can use a waterproof lining to prevent water from seeping through. For areas with heavy rainfalls, it is always a good idea to use a waterproof lining even if your sails are waterproof.
To Wind it Up!
The material and design of a shade sail have a significant impact on its properties like waterproofing, UV protection, etc. HDPE sails are appropriate for areas with light rainfall since they provide water resistance without being completely waterproof. PVC sails are the best option for people who require complete waterproofing. You can also use a waterproof lining to make any shades waterproof. However, this method is not so reliable.
