Factors to consider when selecting shade sail colours

Factors to consider when selecting shade sail colours

When selecting a shade sail colour, it is tempting to make a selection based purely on your preference. However, there are several factors you should consider when choosing a shade sail colour.

Heat absorption

Darker colours absorb more heat, while lighter colours reflect sunlight, keeping the shaded area cooler. If heat reduction is a priority, lighter shades like white, beige, or light grey are preferable.

UV protection

Darker colours generally provide better UV protection because they block more light. However, high-quality fabrics in lighter colours can still offer strong UV protection.

Aesthetic appeal

The colour should complement the surroundings. Consider the colour of nearby structures, landscaping, and outdoor furniture to ensure a harmonious look.

 Visibility and brightness

Lighter colours make the space feel brighter and more open, while darker shades create a more enclosed and intimate feel.

Dirt and maintenance

Lighter colours may show dirt and stains more easily than darker ones, requiring more frequent cleaning.

 Fabric longevity

Some colours may fade faster in direct sunlight. Check the fabric’s UV resistance and warranty to ensure it maintains its appearance over time

Mood and ambience

Colours can affect the ambience of your space. For example, blue tones can create a calming atmosphere, while red or orange can give a more vibrant, energetic feel.

SHADE FABRICS

Rainbow Shade Z16 is a lightweight fabric, at 200GSM, which is coupled with it being particularly long-lasting and sturdy in the elements. Z16 has a reputation unmatched for durability, sun protection and quality.

We now offer DualShade 350 fabric so you can embrace the fashionable and unique possibilities of a twin colour shade sail.

The Gale Commercial 95 340 is a sturdy 340GSM fabric made in a knitted lock-stitch construction for resistance to fraying and tearing. Its quality assurance for highly tensioned shade structures is guaranteed.

This extremely strong 100% Australian-made fabric will not stretch or otherwise lose its shape over time, making it the perfect choice for integrity over the long-term in your permanent shade structures.

If you are seeking a shade cloth that will deliver coverage, strength, weather resistance, durability, sun protection and quality, the Rainbow Shade eXtreme is for you.

WATERPROOF FABRICS

Rainbow Shade DRiZ is a unique lightweight shade cloth with the highest levels of protection from both the sun and the rain. It is also available in an exciting range of 16 fashion colours.

The Serge Ferrari 502(s) is a high-performance waterproof fabric that comes in a dazzling array of over 50 solid and mixed colours. The fabric is fire-resistant, highly durable in all weather, and comes with a 10-year warranty.

Mehler Valmex FR580 PVC is a heavyweight, UV stabilised fabric treated with fungicides for longevity, durability and low maintenance. It is ideal for permanent and temporary tensioned structures, tents and sun shading.

The Hiraoka SX Transparent fabrics are high-quality transparent PVC coated polyester fabrics that can keep the weather and harmful UV radiation out while letting light in.

The Verseidag TXA-F range is UV stabilised, weatherproof and tear and sag resistant. The series also offers extraordinary colour stability with resistance to ageing, pollution and other stains.

COMMERCIAL FABRICS

SpectraNet is a specialist agricultural shade netting well known for providing comprehensive plant protection and climate control. Safeguarding crops against harsh weather conditions and damage caused by insects and birds.

ALLPRO Commercial is made of 100% monofilament knitted shade cloth. It features a high strength to weight ratio and is specially designed for use in plant nurseries, hobby farms and home gardens.

Why choose a lighter coloured shade sail

Lighter coloured shade sails are a practical choice if your priority is a cooler, more open and bright outdoor area with a modern look. Among the benefits of lighter-coloured shade sails are

Cooler Shaded Area

Lighter colours, such as white, beige, and light grey, reflect more sunlight rather than absorbing it. This helps keep the space underneath the shade sail cooler compared to darker-coloured sails, which can absorb heat and make the area warmer

Brighter Space

Lighter-coloured shade sails allow more light to pass through, making the shaded area feel more open and brighter. This is beneficial in spaces where you want natural light while still reducing the intensity of direct sunlight

Visually Expands Space

Lighter colours can create the illusion of a more spacious and open environment, which is especially useful in smaller outdoor areas. The sail feels less imposing than a darker one

 Aesthetic Versatility

Lighter shades often blend more seamlessly with various architectural styles, landscapes, and outdoor decor. They tend to give a modern, clean, and elegant look that complements a variety of colour schemes.

Reduced Fading

Light-coloured fabrics generally resist fading better than darker colours, which can show signs of UV damage faster due to heat absorption.

Energy Efficiency

In spaces close to buildings or homes, using a lighter shade sail can help reduce heat buildup on adjacent walls or windows, which may contribute to energy savings on cooling costs.

 

Why choose a darker-coloured shade sail

Choosing a darker-coloured shade sail works well when you’re aiming for strong UV protection, a dramatic visual effect, and a cozy, glare-free outdoor space. Among the benefits of darker coloured shade sails are.

Better UV Protection

Darker colours, such as navy, charcoal, or forest green, tend to block more sunlight, offering superior UV protection. This makes them ideal for areas where maximum sun protection is needed.

 Reduced Glare

Dark-coloured shade sails absorb more light, which helps to reduce glare in the shaded area. This makes it more comfortable to relax, read, or work underneath the sail without being bothered by reflections from surfaces.

Cozy Atmosphere

Darker colours create a more intimate and cozy ambience, making the space feel more enclosed. This is useful for areas like patios, dining spaces, or outdoor lounges where you want a comfortable, shaded retreat

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 Dirt and Stain Resistance

Dark-coloured fabrics are better at hiding dirt, stains, and general wear and tear. This means less frequent cleaning and maintenance compared to lighter shades.

Bold Aesthetic Appeal

Dark shades can create a striking visual contrast against the natural landscape or lighter-coloured structures, giving your outdoor space a bold, modern, and sophisticated look

Heat Retention

While darker shades absorb more heat, this can be an advantage in cooler climates where maintaining warmth in outdoor spaces is desirable.

Durability and Fading

Some dark-coloured fabrics are engineered to be UV-resistant and fade-resistant, ensuring that they maintain their colour and look over time despite sun exposure.

.Commercial Shade Sails offers a variety of shade sail fabrics, available in a wide range of colours so we are sure to have a product to suit your requirements and tastes.

Supply Only and DIY Shade Sails
One to two weeks

Replacement Shade Sail Installation
One to three weeks

Commercial Shade Sail Installation
Six to ten weeks

Residential Shade Sail Installation
Three to six weeks, including installing posts and structures

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