The metric used to determine how much UV a shade sail fabric can block is called UVR% (Ultra Violet Radiation Percentage). As such, it indicates the percentage of UV A and UV B rays blocked out by a particular shade sail fabric.

Generally, the darker the colour of the chosen shade sail fabric, the greater the UV protection it will provide. Black fabric has a UVR% of approximately 97, meaning 97 percent of the UV A and UV B rays are blocked by the fabric. In contrast, white shade sail fabric will have an average UVR% of 90.

For those who are looking for fabrics to protect them from all weather, rain or shine, we offer a range of architectural PVC fabrics that are all fully waterproof. Please see our waterproof shade solutions here.

With all projects, there are always a few stages involved. Firstly, we come out to quote, then posts and fittings are installed at the site. Measurements are taken on-site at this stage to ensure the shade sail is made to utmost specifications. The next step is for the shade sail to be plotted, sewn and then installed at the site.

Due to high demand, lead-time in summer can often be greater. For more information and a more detailed document on our process please see our installation page here.

As such, it should not need to be removed during the cooler months. However, some customers with a shade sail close to their house like to remove their shade sail in winter to allow more natural light into their living areas during the less sunny seasons.

Tender loving care for you sails never goes astray. Here’s what we recommend:

After an initial first tension check, which should occur approximately 6 months after the shade sail is installed, shade sails should only need tensioned (tightened), once every couple of years.

It is important that your shade sail is kept in a tensioned state to prevent excess movement to make this as simple as possible we fit most sails with tensioning turnbuckles in each corner. Simply turn the turnbuckle body to add or reduce tension and then using a spanner tighten the locking nut down to the body to ensure the tension is maintained.

A member of our team can show you how to do this when the shade sail is installed. Otherwise, if you would prefer us to come to site at another time, we are able to provide this service as well.

Like any fabric, over time, your shade sail may require cleaning. To cater for this, Peninsula Shade Sails offers a full cleaning service. We will come out to visit you, check all fixing points, remove the sail and take it off site, clean and then come back to reinstall the sail. This process generally takes a couple of weeks, so as to ensure an adequate cleaning process. For more information on our cleaning services, please see our maintenance page here.