Popular Deck Designs with Shade Sails:
Let’s look at some of the most popular designs you can opt for in Queensland and the rest of Australia. The most common shape for shade sails is triangular. However, you can also find high-pointed sail designs, square sail designs, and others.
1) High-Pointed Sail Design:
This basic shape is created with a single high point in the centre that, depending on the tension between the posts, can be adjusted to create an angled look. This design is perfect for providing shade in one area while allowing the sun to pass through the surrounding spaces. This design suits homes with decks, patios, and pool areas. A high point design also works best with more extensive areas. For instance, a deck size over 6m x 4m.
2) Square Sail Design:
Square sail designs are often used when you want to cover a larger area, such as over a swimming pool or backyard. Square sails are also excellent for providing protection in areas with strong winds. They feature a flat angle, which offers more coverage and stability than other sail shapes. A square shape is best for decks measuring 3m x 3m above. This is a common choice for most shade sail designs. Please keep it simple by covering your square or rectangle-shaped outdoor area with a single sail.
3) Triangle Sail Design:
The triangular sail gives a modern, aesthetically pleasing look to any outdoor space. It is perfect for decks with irregular shapes, smaller rooms, and areas with multiple structures. A triangle sail design has three or more sails to create a seamless pattern. The sails can be adjusted to fit any deck space’s angle, size, and shape. Triangle shade sails are a timeless and classic design that gives you a flexibility to rearrange your sails to suit the changing seasons easily. You don’t have to cover the who deck with them; you can use triangles for just the centre or corners of your space. A multiple set of triangle sails can provide complete coverage for your deck while aesthetically pleasing.
Alternatives for Deck Shade:
Shade sails are not the only option to provide shade and protection from the sun’s rays for your deck. Retractable awnings, pergolas, and umbrellas are also worth considering if you are looking for alternatives to shade sails. Let’s look at each alternative and compare it with shade sails.
1) Retractable Awnings:
Retractable awnings are an excellent alternative to shade sails as they provide a more permanent, adjustable solution. The additional feature of retractable awnings is that they can be opened and closed whenever you want to let the sun in or allow ventilation. If your deck space is more extensive, retractable awnings are ideal, as they provide ample coverage. Retractable awnings are slightly more expensive than shade sails and require more maintenance.
2) Pergolas:
Pergolas offer coverage across a larger area with fewer posts, making them a good option for decks that are on the larger side. The downside is that pergolas can be more expensive as they require more materials and labour for installation. A pergola sometimes requires a building permit from your local council, depending on the size of the structure and its surroundings. Additionally, some areas of the deck may remain uncovered due to the limited scope of the coverage.
3) Umbrellas:
Umbrellas are an affordable, convenient option for providing shade to your deck, as they can be moved around easily. They are designed to fold down and can be secured in one place when the sun is out. Umbrellas offer great coverage for a small area, but they have downsides. Due to wear and tear, they may need to be replaced sooner than other shade options, and they must be secured in windy weather. Additionally, umbrellas cannot be used to cover large deck spaces as the coverage is limited.
No matter which shade option you choose for your deck, it is essential to ensure that your selections are appropriate for the size and shape of the area. Make sure to consider all options available before making your final decision. Looking at the alternatives compared to a shade sail can help you decide the best choice for your space.
How To Design with Shade Sails: What You Need To Know Before Starting:
1) Measurement of the deck area:
First, you need to take a few measurements of your deck area to choose the right size shade sail.
2) Layout of the sails:
Once you have the measurements, it is essential to determine how many sails you need and how they should be positioned on your deck.
3) Material of the sails:
You will need to choose a durable and weather-resistant material for your sails. The most common materials used for shade sails are heavy-duty polyester or vinyl.
4) Positioning and installation:
Next, it is necessary to determine where the sails need to be positioned and how they will be installed. This includes finding relevant posts or walls to attach the sails and ensuring the installation of all components is secure.
4) Maintenance:
Finally, once the shade sails have been installed, you must maintain them regularly. This includes cleaning and checking for any damages or tears in the fabric.
Consult a pro for shade cloths for decks.
When installing a shade sail design, there are certain potential issues that you should be aware of. For instance, the sail is likely overloaded by wind or rain if it is not adequately secured to posts and walls. Additionally, shade sails can be challenging to clean, as the material can become discoloured and stained with time. To avoid all those potential issues, consult a professional in your area. Sunguard Brisbane is an experienced team in shade sail designs and installations that can provide the correct advice for your needs.