Most people are now opting to spend more time enjoying their outdoors. This has seen the shifting focus on the designing of exterior spaces and outfitting them with pools, spas and fire pits, among other elements that transform them.
These improvements will do little for your outdoor space without the right cover to protect you from the sun and rain. There are different shade structures used for outdoor living: pergolas, awnings, umbrellas and patio covers are the leading ones.
Shade sails are, however, gaining popularity among those scouring the various kinds of a fabric structure available in search of a shade option for their outdoor structure. These allow an adjustment of the height and angle of your sail shade to control the amount of sunlight in your edifice.
The following are some of the installation alternatives for your structure’s shade sails.
Installation between Buildings
You need not have much outdoor space to install shade sails. You can install the sails between two buildings, negating the need for installation posts. You will, however, need to ensure that the materials used for the buildings’ construction are strong enough to support the tension required for your installation.
This option can turn the mostly useless space between your building and another into a functional outdoor space.
Installation Using Posts
You can opt to use posts alone for the installation of your shade sails. These allow you to get a completely independent structure that you can tastefully design to match various architectural elements. There are different types of posts used for installing shade sails.
Yours should have the ideal storm rating and coating for your environment. They are concreted to depths of approximately 1.2m and widths of 400mm. This way, they can adequately support the tension of shade sails.
Combined Post and Existing Structure Installation
Here, a part of your shaded sails will be attached to a pole while the other is connected to an existing building. This works for detached houses since you can use one side of your property then support the other end with poles.
The combination of posts and a building for your shade sails also gives it an enclosed and somewhat private surrounding and a high aesthetic appeal.
Combined Posts and Roof Installation
This resembles the post and existing structure installation but uses the roof rather than an existing wall. To this end, your shade sails will be higher up compared to when you use an existing wall. The vertical space so acquired gives you an airy feel to your outdoor space and works if you are looking for shade for the second story of a building as well.
The combined roof and post-installation also work perfectly for entrance way, verandahs, and decks.
Outdoor spaces are not a preserve of residential areas. The above installation options for shade sails will also work for commercial parking spaces and relaxation spots. They, however, come in three fabric varieties, and it is essential to pick one that suits your environment.
Fabrics with UV coating are ideal for hot climatic conditions while water-resistant fabric suffices for areas with light rain. Waterproof materials are the best choice for areas with heavy rains.
