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Can you leave a shade sail up all year? How long do shade sails last? In this article, we answer these and more questions about shade sails.
Shade sails are a highly effective solution when it comes to shading your commercial or residential area – they are convenient, easy to install, customisable to your needs and preferences, and add a great aesthetic touch to your outdoor space.
While shade sails are most commonly purchased to protect people and furniture from the damage caused by UV radiation during the summer, it doesn’t mean that they can only be used during the summer.
They also provide shelter during the rainy days, allowing you to maximise time spent outdoors even when the weather isn’t warm and sunny.
But can you leave a shade up all year, and how long do shade sails last? How should you maintain and take care of your shade sails in order to keep them up all year round? In this article, we will answer these and more questions.
Let’s get right into it:
Can you leave a shade sail up all year?
Leaving a shade sail up all year depends on factors like material quality, climate, installation, and maintenance. Quality UV-resistant materials and proper installation increase the sail’s durability.
Mild climates may allow for longer use, but in harsh weather regions, it’s wise to take it down during extreme conditions to prevent damage. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspections, is crucial to prolong the life of the shade sail.
Check local regulations and permits, and consider consulting professionals for specific guidance depending on your location. While it’s possible to leave a shade sail up all year, careful consideration of these factors ensures safe and long-lasting use of a shade sail.
What factors should be considered when leaving a shade sail up all year?
As we just mentioned, if you are planning to leave your shade sail up all year round, there are some important factors that need to be considered. They include, but are not limited to:
1. Material quality
The quality of the shade sail material is essential if you are planning to leave it up all year. Choose a durable, UV-resistant fabric like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyester that can withstand prolonged exposure to the elements.
If you are going for a store-bought option, keep in mind that they tend to be made from low-grade fabrics, so it might be better to store them as opposed to exposing them to different weather conditions throughout the year – as they will get damaged easily.
On the other hand, opting for high-quality fabrics will not only ensure the resistance of your shade sail from the elements, but you will also be able to enjoy them for longer. You can also get shade sails specifically manufactured for extreme weather conditions.
2. Climate
Your local climate plays a significant role in deciding on whether you should leave your shade sail up all year. In mild, stable climates, keeping the sail up throughout the whole year is more feasible.
However, in areas with extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow, strong winds, or frequent storms, it’s advisable to take it down during harsh seasons to prevent damage. That is, unless you have purchased shade sails specifically designed for that.
3. Installation
Proper installation is essential for the longevity of a shade sail. Ensure it’s tensioned correctly, and the anchor points are secure. Follow manufacturer guidelines or consult a professional company like SD Sails for installation to prevent premature wear and tear.
While installing a shade sail can be straightforward , we highly recommend getting professional installation. That’s because shade sails need to be tensioned properly to provide effective sun protection and withstand environmental factors like wind and rain.
Professionals have the expertise to install the sail correctly, ensuring it is tensioned appropriately and anchored securely to prevent sagging or damage. Safety is paramount when it comes to installing any outdoor structure.
4. Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping a shade sail in good condition, and especially if you want to leave it up all year round. Clean the sail to remove dirt and debris, inspect it for signs of wear, and promptly address any damage or weakening of the material.
Routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your shade sail. The fabric and hardware of shade sails can deteriorate over time, especially in harsh weather conditions.
By addressing minor issues as quickly as they happen, you can prevent larger problems that might require costly replacements.
5. Regulations and permits
Check local regulations and homeowners’ association rules, if applicable, to see if there are any restrictions or permits required for leaving a shade sail up year-round. Some areas may have restrictions on permanent structures, even if they are for shade.
6. Sun exposure
The intensity of sunlight in your area can impact the longevity of the shade sail. Prolonged exposure to strong UV rays can cause material degradation over time. Consider using a shade sail with a high UV protection rating, and don’t hesitate to invest in quality.
It is important to keep in mind that the intensity and angle of the sun vary throughout the year due to the changing seasons.
In the summer months, the sun is generally higher in the sky and more intense, making shade sails particularly valuable for sun protection. Keeping your shade sail up during the summer can help create a cooler and more comfortable outdoor space.
7. Snow load
If you experience heavy snowfall in your area, the weight of accumulated snow on the shade sail can pose a risk. Ensure that the sail is designed to handle the snow load, or remove it during winter months.
If the shade sail is not prepared for these conditions, it may not be the best idea to keep it up throughout every season.
8. Wind resistance
Another factor to consider if you want to leave a shade sail up all year is the wind resistance. That’s because high winds can strain the sail and its anchor points. Opt for a sail designed to withstand wind or take it down during windy periods to prevent damage.
In most cases, a shade sail can handle winds of up to 130 km per hour. However, this highly depends on the quality of the fabric and whether the sail has been properly installed and tensioned. Improper installation reduces its stability against wind resistance.
9. Manufacturer
The manufacturer of your shade sail is another factor to consider if you are planning to leave your shade sail all year round.
Reputable manufacturers like SD Sails usually use high-quality, UV-resistant fabrics and durable hardware. If you choose a shade sail from a trusted manufacturer, it is more likely to withstand prolonged exposure to the elements without degrading, fading, or tearing.
A well-made shade sail is more likely to remain in good condition for an extended period when left up year-round.
Another important factor to consider is the warranty – not all manufacturers offer warranty on their shade sails, so make sure to choose one that does.
How long do shade sails last?
The lifespan of a shade sail can vary significantly based on several factors, including the quality of materials, installation, and exposure to environmental elements. Generally, well-maintained shade sails can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more.
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that shade sails will last longer if you:
– Ensure that you are getting a shade sail made from high-grade fabrics like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or shade cloth with UV stabilisers
– Make sure that the shade sail is installed properly, and it’s securely tensioned with anchored attachment points – especially crucial for windy conditions
– Provide regular maintenance such as cleaning the fabric, checking and tightening hardware, and inspecting for damage
FAQ
Can you leave shade sails up in winter?
Yes, you can leave shade sails up in winter, but it’s advisable to consider your specific climate. In milder regions, leaving them up year-round is possible. However, in areas with harsh winters, it’s often better to take them down to prevent damage from snow, ice, and strong winds.
Proper maintenance, secure installation, and using materials designed for cold weather can help extend their lifespan if you choose to leave them up during winter. Regular inspections for snow accumulation and damage are essential in colder months.
Are shade sails rainproof?
Shade sails are usually designed primarily for sun protection and shade can provide some limited protection from light rain and drizzle, they are not completely rainproof.
However, if you are looking for a rainproof option, you can opt for waterproof shade sails as opposed to ones made from breathable fabrics which are purely focused on UV protection.
Do shade sails sag?
Yes, shade sails can sag over time due to various factors. The primary reason is the relaxation of tension in the fabric and cables. This can occur naturally with temperature changes, UV exposure, and wind forces.
Proper initial tensioning during installation can mitigate sagging, but periodic adjustments may be necessary to maintain the desired tautness. The choice of high-quality, UV-resistant fabric also plays a role in minimising sag.
Additionally, poor installation, insufficient hardware, or inadequate support structures can contribute to sagging. Regular maintenance, including checking tension and making necessary adjustments, is essential to prevent and address sagging in shade sails.
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