Q & A
HOW DO SHADE SAILS WORK?
In architectural terms, shade sails are tensile membrane structures. In other words, the fabric is stretched taut between wall attachment points or masts/poles as well as via the action of cable acting in catenary curves around the perimeter of the sail. In doing so, they remove the need for much of the support structure used in conventional shading and pergolas. They may compare favourably in terms of cost, and will provide an attractive visual enhancement to your home or premises.
WHAT ABOUT WIND?
Perhaps surprisingly, shade sails are tolerant of windy conditions provided they are manufactured and installed to the standards of Sunsails. They do not flap noisily and can withstand quite high gust speeds when properly anchored to masonry, concrete or steelwork of adequate strength. The materials and construction of Sunsails are rated for up to 100Km/h gusts.
HOW LONG DO SHADE SAILS LAST?
The fabric types used by Sunsails carry manufacturers' guarantees against fading and UV degradation and we expect the sail construction and installation to last beyond this period, depending on exposure to sunlight and local wind conditions. The specifications of fittings used in our system exceed the load requirements placed on them and a unique tensioning method ensures even forces acting on the fabric, thus maximising resistance to tearing.
ARE SHADE SAILS WATERPROOF?
The non-water proof HDPE fabrics we use do provide reasonable shelter from rain where the sails are sloped, twisted or layered, and transitional areas are covered by overhanging eaves or other building elements. Fully waterproof fabrics can be used in certain applications.
HOW ARE SHADE SAILS INSTALLED?
At Sunsails we usually install our shade sails in two visits, firstly the wall anchor points and poles are situated and measurements are taken between them. The sails are then manufactured to these measurements at our factory. At the second visit the sail is fitted and tensioned.
WHY IS IT BETTER TO USE INDIVIDUALLY SIZED SHADE SAILS, AS OPPOSED TO OFF-THE-SHELF STANDARD SIZES?
Standard sizes are simpler to manufacture, but difficult to install. It will take a few tries to position the wall anchor points correctly, and planting poles in the ground in a precise position is not a straight forward procedure in practice. There may also be hidden obstructions underground in the planned positions. Extension cables, ropes or chains will probably be necessary - which can look untidy and reduce sail stability. The Sunsails system starts with choosing attachment and pole positions, from which the sail is custom made to fit perfectly between these points.
IS IT BETTER TO TAKE DOWN THE SHADE SAILS OVER WINTER?
Your sails can be taken down seasonally where, for instance, more light is required in the winter months. However, quite often the lower sun angles in winter reach under the sail structure anyway. The life of the sail can be extended slightly by seasonal removal, although once again the majority of UV degradation will occur under the summer sun and it is probably not worth removal for this reason alone.
WHAT MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED?
Shade sails in HDPE fabrics are generally maintenance-free, an occasional spray with a garden hose will keep them free of dust. Unusual dirt can be removed with light scrubbing or pressure washing. Tension adjustment after the initial installation is not usually needed, but can be carried out where necessary by tightening the turnbuckles. We encourage our customers to contact us prior to carrying out this work, or to have it done by our installation team.
ARE ANY WARRANTIES OFFERED?
Sunsails offers a 2-year warranty on installation workmanship, concurrent with fabric manufacturer's warranties (usually 8 or 10 years). On sail system kits not installed by us, we offer a guarantee on accurate sail sizing to the measurements you have supplied.
WHY CHOOSE SUNSAILS SHADES OVER PERGOLAS OR PATIO COVERS?
Sunsails Shades offer a number of advantages over shade structures such as pergolas and patio covers:
- Sunsails Shades make an impact with their contemporary, elegant lines in comparison to the often dated appearance of pergolas and the boxy style of patio covers.
- Sunsails Shades take up little to no ground space whereas patio covers & pergolas often require multiple supports, blocking views and restricting outdoor spaces.
- Sunsails Shades are virtually maintenance free when compared to wooden shade structures like pergolas.
- Sunsails Shades can fit your unique style requirements through our wide range of colour options. Single Sunsails can be used to create a subtle shade cover while multiple Sunsails can be tiered for dramatic effect.
- Sunsails Shades are a cost effective option in comparison to most patio covers and pergolas.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SUNSAILS SHADE OVER A PARASOL?
When looking for shade solutions to escape the Summer sun, a common choice has often been a parasol or outdoor umbrella. However in the Cape, our strong and gusty South Easter wreaks havoc on parasols, either causing damage or relocating them to the other end of your garden. By choosing a Sunsails shade, you are guaranteed the shade without the hassle. All Sunsails shades have been built to withstand strong winds and unlike umbrellas, certain Sunsails shades can be installed with no poles, meaning more ground room is available.
