SHADE SAILS

The unique freeform nature of the shade sail by Shadeform makes it the most versatile of shading solutions, suitable for an array of commercial or residential applications. Shade sails have become increasingly popular, noted for their striking visual appeal in addition to providing practical shade or all-weather protection. At Shadeform, the team take pride in the design and manufacture of the highest quality shade sails, from conceptual design and visualisation, through manufacturing to final installation.

EXPERIENCE

Shadeform have over 30 years of experience in designing, manufacturing and installing shade sails, working from the heart of this relatively new industry right from its inception. With a background in sailing and sail making from childhood, the Shadeform directors have a wealth of experience in the manufacture of sails. You cannot buy or import experience, you have to be there – and that is what sets Shadeform apart from the competition. Every job is unique and only by experiencing the individual requirements of each project and designing solutions to suit, can this depth of knowledge be acquired.

STRUCTURAL DESIGN

Commercial shade sails are engineer designed to suit application by Shadeform’s engineering team. Shade design is a very specialist area with a limitless array of structural formats. By using the latest FEA software, the engineers are able to accurately calculate the tensile loadings and deign brackets, posts, footings and support structure to suit. 

FABRICS

Shade sails can be manufactured using a wide range of fabrics depending on each individual requirement. Commercial grade shadecloth provides a durable yet economical solution, with up to 98 percent UV protection. Becoming increasingly popular is the extra heavy duty Monotec 370 shadecloth. This Australian-made monofilament shade fabric is available in a wide range of vibrant colours and has an excellent 15-year warranty. If a fully weatherproof solution is required, the team can manufacture the sail in commercial grade waterproof PVC, with warranties up to 20 years.

FITTINGS

Shadeform use only the best fittings available on the market. Grade 316 stainless steel edge wires, D rings and chain are generally used, with larger waterproof sails requiring hot-dip galvanised corner plates and galvanised heavy-duty chain.

LAYOUT

Shade sails are the most versatile of shading products in terms of layout, with each sail being custom-designed to suit the site. Post positions and connection points can be located to suit the individual application, enabling the maximum shade footprint to be achieved. Where most rigid shade structures tend to be limited to a square or rectangular geometric form, tensile shade sails are custom made to fit a seemingly limitless array of layouts and formats.

MANUFACTURING

Following an accurate survey of the support columns or connection points, each shade sail is designed, patterned and plotted using the latest 3D design software. Once cut out, the sail panels are either machine-sewn or high-frequency welded together, depending on the type of fabric used. Corner patches are then added in triple layers; a unique process developed during Shadeform’s 30-plus years of manufacturing. The sails are then hand finished with the addition of stainless steel edge wires and fittings. The corner reinforcing, combined with the use of industry leading durable sewing thread and the highest quality stainless steel edge wires and fittings, ensures that Shadeform’s sails are the strongest available on the market.

ANTI-VANDAL DETERRENTS

To deter would-be assailants from climbing the shade structure, support posts can be specified with spiked collars at the top, which will reduce the risk associated with climbing if the structure is located in an area prone to vandalism.

MAINTENANCE AND LIFESPAN

Design is critical to the lifespan of a shade sail, and this comes with experience in this specialist area. If designed correctly, a shade sail will provide years of trouble-free shading, with minimal maintenance required. Shade sails do not require a great deal of attention; however, it is recommended to periodically check that the fittings remain tight and secure. When the sail eventually requires replacing, this is typically a straightforward procedure. Shadeform keep all measurements on file, so re-measuring is not required.

Contact Shadeform for more information on their range of shade sails via the links below.