Shade sails play an important safety role by protecting your family from harmful UV radiation while also bolstering the curb appeal of your property. Regular maintenance will go a long way in extending lifespan and improving their maximum effectiveness.  
A properly maintained shade sail looks aesthetic, but a shabby, sagging sail that looks worse for wear can hurt your property’s aesthetic appeal. For starters, it is important to install quality sails from a reputable vendor and then do what you can to maintain the seals to ensure the best outcome for residents.
Here are the basics of shade sail maintenance.
Repair the Shade sails After Major Weather EventsWhile regular maintenance goes a long way to ensuring the longevity of your shade sails, extreme weather events may require an emergency inspection. Physical checks should be made to determine if the connection points and fittings are sound and secure. It is not uncommon for extreme weather events to result in the steel fittings rubbing against the fabric.
Plant matter such as twigs and leaves can also harm the fabric, especially in tears and cuts.
Make Sure to Check the Structural Integrity of the Sails Fabric structures are always moving, as is expected, and while that looks mesmerizing in its own right, it does create a few safety problems. You have to make sure that the sails never lose the tension binding them to the property.
Most shade sails are designed to require little maintenance work, but extreme weather conditions may warrant servicing. As a rule, you should check and, if needed, re-tension each sail once every twelve months to maintain the effectiveness of the shade and protect residents.
Removing Overgrown Trees and BranchesIf you notice trees and branches breaching the shade structure, you’ll have to take immediate action. This is because the debris from trees can impair the structural integrity of shade sails and damage them. In such a case, it is necessary to trim the branches or, if needed, cut down the encroaching trees to prevent further damage.
Cleaning the Shade (choose a sunny day) You can clean the shades yourself with the help of mild detergent and water. Ensure the detergent does not contain any acidic chemicals because they can erode the fabric’s natural resistance against ultraviolet radiation, and, therefore, its overall effectiveness.
Note: Never put your fabric in the washing machine or an abrasive cleaner.
Always check the fabric tension before reinstalling the shade sail. Use a durable tensioning strap to prevent any creases or sagging from the fabric when refitting it.
Always Take Photographic Evidence of Sails During InspectionsMake sure to take regular photographs of your shade sails to see how they change over time. Photographs are especially important during inspections and maintenance to compare the results.
 
If you take good care of your shade sails, you should expect them to last for several years. Contact us to learn about our maintenance services here!

Shade sails are used for so much more than just blocking UV rays, although that is a major advantage of installing them over your patio or outdoor restaurant. Shade sails protect you from environmental factors and weather conditions like rain, snow, etc. They are a great and valuable addition to your backyard and, if planned accordingly, compliment your home’s style as well. But how to choose the best shade sail?
In this article, we will discuss the best shade sail materials and fabrics designed for different purposes so you can choose accordingly and make a well-informed decision.
How is Shade Sail’s Material Different?Shade sail material is different from awning fabrics. Although they can be made from it as well, they are not as durable and stretchy. Shade sail cloths are of two types, woven and knitted, and are further categorized into domestic-grade and commercial-grade.
Shade sail fabrics are mesh rather than solid fabrics and are stretchy. They are also not wrinkled and can easily handle tension and stress. California shade sail providers recommend choosing a dark-colored, tightly woven material that blocks UV rays but drains water and even let’s light shine through.
Types of Shade Sail MaterialsThere are many different types of shade sail materials available in the market. Let’s discuss the most popular.
1.Commercial Heavy® 430If you want to cover up a large area and add as many minimum structures and supporting points as possible, go for Commercial Heavy 430. It is specifically designed for large-scale jobs. It is made from a knitted, tear-resistant shade sail material, and its UV blockage is around 85 to 87%. It is 100% recyclable and can last up to 15 years.
2.SolaMesh®SolaMesh is ideal for a medium-sized area. It is made from polymer technology and can withstand the toughest weather conditions. It is a lightweight fabric that is perfect for outdoor spaces like parks, restaurants, and other areas with dangerous levels of sun exposure. It is made from HDPE monofilament cloth and is stable and easy to clean.
3.FR Comshade®The FR Comshade is now available with new and improved environmentally safe ingredients. It is also made from HDPE shade cloth and is fire-resistant and less aggressive to UV inhibitors. They can last up to 10 years.
4.Architec 400®Architec400 is also made from HDPE fabric and is durable and stretchy. It is perfect for your patio or backyard as it provides UV protection of 90% or greater. The shade sail material can last up to 15 years and has improved color consistency.
5.Comtex®The Comtex shade sail fabric is perfect for residential and commercial projects. It provides 90% or greater UV protection and is more stable than other shade sail materials. It is available in many colors, can last up to 10 years, and has UV stabilizers.
Now that you know how to choose the best shade sail material depending on the area you want to cover and the specifications you are looking for, you can easily choose the right fit for your project. It is best to consult California shade sail providers for expert opinions and installation.

With summers approaching, you need to get your backyard ready for BBQs, hangouts, pool-side parties, and more. But no one wants the sun scorching down their backs and ruining a perfect day. Thus, you can invest in shade sails in California and increase the value of your home and property.
California shade sails enable you to increase the usable space and make it pleasant and available no matter the weather. But there are many important things to consider when buying shade sails in California. Let’s check them out.
Pre-planningBefore making this investment, you need to ask yourself the purpose behind getting a shade sail. Are you doing it to protect yourself from the sun or to elevate your backyard’s aesthetic? Do you have children that play around in the backyard all day? Do you want the California shade sails to be permanent or temporary?.
Once you determine the purpose and need for installing shade sails, you can better decide and choose the right material for your home.
LocationWhen choosing shade sails in California, you first need to determine the location and size of the area. The location matters because the earth rotates on its axis, so you will install the shade sail accordingly depending on when you need the most protection from the sun.
Size matters, so you know how much area you need to cover and choose the shade sail as required. For example, shade sails come in several shapes; rectangular, square, and triangle. Rectangular and square are used for covering up large areas. In contrast, triangular shade sails are great for smaller and tighter spaces.
Shade Sail MaterialThere are many different types of shade sail materials available. For example, shade sails can be made from woven cloth, PVC fabric, Polyethylene, and more. The choice depends on how much sun coverage you want. For example, the Commercial Heavy® 430 is suitable for large areas where you want less structural support and need to cover a commercial-sized area. In contrast, Commercial FR 300® is UV resistant and made using fire retardant fabric. Ensure to consult professional shade sail providers in California to find the best fit for your home.
Sun and Wind ExposureCalifornia shade sails are prone to breaking, tearing, sagging, and more if exposed to extreme weather conditions. Thus, invest in a high-quality shade sail. If you live in an area prone to heavy winds, you need to install the shade sail with more tension.
Installation You can install shade sails yourself if you have the appropriate structures available, but it's best to choose professional shade sail service providers in California to get the job done. They can consult you on the best location, material, and area to cover.  
Now that you know the important things to consider when buying shade sails in California, you can make a well-informed decision. Hiring a professional to get the job done will result in proper installation. They will also help you find the right fabric that will last longer and not sag or balloon up due to the weather conditions.

An empty large outdoor space opens a world of possibilities for outdoor entertaining and relaxing. Most homeowners prefer to decorate the space with a lovely patio shade surrounded by natural beauty. Today, patio shades come in so many styles, shapes, and colors that choosing a type that suits your unique spacing is as easy as pie. In this article, we bring you a range of ideas for how you can shade your patio and enjoy your time outdoors like never before!

1.    Trailing Plants

Also known as climbing plants, these vines are a good option to cover the entire patio with lush greenery. Even though trailing plants won’t offer a solid shade, they are ideal for a stunning yet reliable covering. To get this natural shade, you will need to place a trailing plant pot at the foot of each patio post. Over time, as the plant grows, it will begin to offer a rich, dense shade!

2.    Hanging Flower Pots

This is another lovely way to cover your patio with natural beauty. You can invest in a variety of small yet gorgeous flower pots and hang them over your patio. However, to properly hang your flower pots, you will need to install a sturdy pergola. This will give more definition to your entire space.

3.    Bamboo Ceiling

For a beachy and rustic vibe, you can invest in bamboo sheets. Nail or staple them over the top of ceiling planks of your patio. Unlike trailing or hanging plants, this will give a more solid shade with beams of light shining through, depending on how thickly packed the sheets are.

4.    Parasol

Also known as sun umbrellas, parasols are a perfect option for a temporary shade. They come in a variety of designs to suit the customer’s budget – from simple to highly fashionable, sun umbrellas are safe, stable, and prevent harmful UV rays from coming directly over the chair.

5.    Canvas Sail

Canvas sails are simple yet effective. Using an old boat sail, you can create canvas sails by yourself as well. A canvas sail consists of triangular pieces that can be attached to the wall or post of your patio. All you need are some metal hooks and strings to attach your canvas sail.

6.    Awning

Awnings are a great traditional option for patio covering. If you’re willing to spend more money, you are likely to find plenty of fashionable versions. Awnings provide solid and long-lasting shade to any outdoor space.

Not sure where to buy the best yet cost-effective patio shades? Contact Cali Shade Sails today or request a free estimate for your customized patio shade! 

A private pool area is a perfect place to relax with your loved ones on a lovely summer day. However, as much as you may want to spend your time in the pool with your friends and family, you probably can’t help worry about the harmful effects of the sun on you and others. The excessive sun rays directly upon you and those with you can take the fun out of the chillax time outdoors. This is where the importance of having a pool shade sail comes in. Let’s look at some more crucial reasons why having a pool shade is a great idea!

1.    Keep Your Pool Cool

Having hot pool water on a hot summer day is no fun.

Just like awnings provide shade and keep the insides of your house cool, similarly, a pool shade sail is designed to keep your pool cooler. This is a great blessing in the scorching summer season when you want to stay and keep your surrounding cool.

In fact, a shade cloth fabric that only offers 70% of UVR protection offers adequate shade to keep your pool area fresh and chill.

2.    Offers Protection Against UV Light

Direct UV rays can be harmful to you and your friends and family. Not only does it cause sunburns, but excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to premature aging and skin damage – hard skin, wrinkles, etc. Research shows that UV rays can hurt your eyes, too. However, the installation of a good quality pool shade sail offers approximately 99% protection against unwanted ultraviolet rays. 

3.    Add Value to Your Property

A pool shade sail is an incredible addition to your house. Apart from offering shade to you and your dear ones, the pool shading helps enhance the space. Depending on the type of shade you invest in, the pool area looks beautiful as well as welcoming.

4.    Keep Dirt and Debris Out

One of the best reasons to invest in a pool shade sail is that it keeps your pool neat and clean. It prevents unwanted debris – leaves, metal pieces, twigs, wrappers, plastic, etc. – from making its way into the pool. This calls for less cleaning and maintenance of your pool.

Conclusion

Shade sails can be the ultimate solution for adding and maintaining the quality of your pool. Cali Shade Sails is California’s number one shade provider. Whether you’re looking for patio covers, canopy structures, or pool shades, they have got it all!