Shade Sail Systems
Are shade sails waterproof?
It depends on the material! Whilst all shade sails will provide protection from the sun and UV rays, not all are entirely waterproof. Shade cloth is the most common type of material used for shade structures. This is a more affordable and showerproof option, but does not offer protection from heavy rainfall due to its woven mesh construction. Total waterproofing can be achieved with PVC material. This comes at a slightly higher price point due to the heavier weight of the material and the additional steelworks required to hold it in place.
Regardless of the material, all shade sails are installed on a high-tensioned angle aimed to deflect rainfall and reduce movement in the wind. We are happy to work with you to choose the most suitable fabric for your project and price point.
Why are shade sails installed at an angle?
Many shade sails look triangular because they are installed with a slight twist called a ‘hypar’. Generally speaking, the corners of a shade sail are anchored at slightly differing heights in order to reduce sagging, encourage water shed and minimise movement in the wind. As well as improving the longevity of your shade system, installing a shade sail on an angle adds to the overall appearance of the space.
How much does a shade sail cost?
The cost of a shade sail is dependent on a range of job- and industry-specific factors. Location, site surfaces, design and engineering are just some factors that may impact the price of a shade structure. In addition to this, external factors such as labour costs and steel prices also play a part in determining the overall cost of a project.
Cost also varies depending on whether a job is commercial or residential. As a rough guide, the pricing for a residential sail of up to 20 square metres can range from $5,000-$10,000. As with everything, quality comes with a price.
Looking at our recent projects may give some indication of pricing. For a more accurate estimate, we recommend contacting us for a quote using the details on our contact page.
Do I need council approval for my shade sail installation?
The need for permits and council approval depends on a range of factors such as the size of the shade structure, the location of install and the building type. You may be exempt from council approval if:
-Your structure is less than 3.6m high from the ground.
-Your structure covers an area of less than 20 square meters.
-Your shade sail material is permeable, allowing water and air to pass through.
It is a good idea to contact your local council department for clarification. The team at SBD Shades are happy to offer our advice and assistance.
How long do shade sails take to install?
The installation time can vary from job to job and is dependent on factors such as permit requirements, work conditions and project size.
As a rough guide for a small residential job with permit requirements, the design, engineering and permit application can take around 4 weeks. From there, the manufacturing, supply and installation takes around 3-4 weeks.
Time frames are completely job dependent. The team will be able to give you a rough estimate of lead times after quoting. Looking at our recent projects may also give you an indication of timings.
Do I need to maintain my shade sail?
Shade sails are an investment and so it is important to look after them after the initial installation. Here are a few tips on how to care for your shade system:
1. Carry out regular checks on the structure- shade sails should be checked and serviced at least every 12 months to ensure they do not pool or lose tension. Whilst all of our shade systems are built to last, harsh weather conditions can affect the structure from time to time.
2. Check your shade structure after a major wind event- It is particularly important to check your shade sail after any major wind event including storms. Remove any debris and if necessary, organise to have the sail repaired in a timely manner.
3. Cutback overhanging trees and branches- tree debris can cause damage to your sails and should be trimmed back.
Louvre Roof Systems
What is a louvre roof?
A louvre roof is a set of horizontal parallel blades fitted into an overhead frame, void or bulkhead. With a touch of a button, the louvre blades tilt or retract, depending on the system, to let in the desired amount of air and light whilst blocking UV rays, rain, wind and other unwanted elements.
Not all louvre roofs are made equal and some will offer more features than others. Check out our products tab to view and compare the different systems.
How much is a louvre roof?
The cost of a louvre roof will vary depending on the type of system, dimensions and any additional accessories such as lights, heaters and rain sensors.
The best way to ascertain an estimated cost is by contacting us for an obligation-free quote. You can also view our recent projects to get a rough indication of pricing.
Remember that a louvre roof is an investment. Whilst there are cheaper shade options out there, a louvre roof solution is a permanent structure that will add additional ‘living space’ to your home without the need for a disruptive renovation. It is also a desirable selling point should you ever choose to put your home on the market.
Are louvre roofs waterproof?
Each system offers a rainproof finish. The louvre blades are designed to interlock when closed to create a seal and keep rain out. Water is carried away by deep channels in each louvre leading to a surrounding gutter. This drainage system avoids leakage and residual water spray into the space below it. During heavy rainfall there may be some splashing around the gutter but for the most part, the louvre system will still keep you comfortable and dry. There is no need to run inside when the weather turns!
How wide can louvres be?
The width and projection of a louvre system is dependent on the model. Our largest spanning system is the Exxen which is part of the Lux Range. The blades can span up to 7 metres wide with a projection of up to 6 metres, or 4.5m span with a maximum projection of 9m. Several modules can be linked together to create a greater area.
It is best to get in touch to determine which system is most suitable for your space. You can also look at the specification catalogues on our products page for more information.
