How to compare shade sails

Aug 16 2022

Compare the weight of the sails

Shade sails are measured in Grams per Square Metre (GSM). However the strength to weight factor is a key consideration. Also the purpose and location of the shade sail.

• GSM 80 (low strength)
• GSM 200 (high strength)
• GSM 320+ (very high strength)

For large commercial projects or where superior strength is required Extra Heavy Grade fabric up to 400gsm is available as an option.

Is the fabric standards compliant?

The key to Understanding Australian Standards is that they are developed by an independent Non-Government Organisation (NGO) called Standards Australia.

The current standard for knitted and woven shade fabrics is AS 4174:2018 published in 2018. The committee that asseses this is Textiles for Horticulture and Agriculture.

Grades of Stainless Steel used for fittings

Stainless Steel comes in different grades. Even whether stainless steel is appropriate for a specific fixture is a consideration. It is a strength vs corrosion resistence formula or rule of thumb that determines the longevity of fixtures and fittings used for shade sails. Check specs on shade sails that need to handle a moist corrosive environment.

Are Shade Sails the most weather exposed product?

How will the fabric colour handle sun exposure and weather conditions?

The colour of a specific fabric will play a factor in its fade resistance and UVR block capacity.

Are Shade Sails the most weather exposed outdoor product? Your choice of installer is really important.

How is the fabric strengthened?

How are corners reinforced?

Experienced shade sail installers will either weld or double stitch the fabric. Stainless steel cable (4 mm+) and locating rings and cross stitched seatbelt like materials are not unccomon.

There is also set formulas to ensure the posts are fixed at the right angles to the ground.