Whenever I see the shade sails in this garden, I have the sensation of floating through the landscape, as though the patio was a ship sailing past islands of colorful plants and fun activities. I also think of comfort; activities beneath these sails are protected from drizzle, fog and sunshine without being weighed down by heavy beams.
CASE STUDY IN LA JOLLA
In the above backyard landscape design, the installer designed a combination of 2 super-imposed sails made to specs from sun-rated HDPE (high density polyethylene) fire rated shade fabric, sage green, both in a triangle shape. After determining the specific angle that was needed to block out the noon sun, one sail tip was attached with a strong stainless steel cable to the 1st story façade of the L-shaped house; a second point of attachment is on the roof of the lower arm of the L, where the actual anchoring was achieved by attaching to the roof beams. The 3rd sail tip is attached to a steel post with a 4’-6” foot-deep base set in concrete that is hidden among the bamboo culms. Together both shade sails are very efficient at blocking the sun of the dining area, and their swooping outlines impart motion and energy to the landscape.
These sails can also be mounted vertically to block out a bad view; in this project the sails served to screen out the neighbor’s house that was looming behind the fence.
In cases where there is no house or roof to attach the sails to, free-standing posts are planted to which the sails are attached.
DETERMINING SHADE AND EFFICIENCY
The shade sails above were tested in a mock-up prior to installation. Other methods include “shade auditing” and shadow mapping.
BENEFITS
- Protection from UV rays (some fabrics offer up to 97 % UV protection);
- Custom designed to fit the project’s requirements, in triangle, or trapezoid/square shapes (some standard sizes are available);
- They represent cool landscape ideas that add value to the home and attractiveness to the landscape;
- They can serve as vertical screen to increase privacy or block out a bad view;
- They can be designed and installed to withstand high wind ratings.
- Low maintenance: Yearly washing is recommended (some installers offer this service).
PRODUCT QUALITY
Every component of a shade sail is designed to stand up to the rigors of day in–day out exposure to the sun. Many shade sails also have an up to 10 year manufacturer’s warranty against UV degradation.
DESIGN
As landscape designer San Diego, I love the contemporary character of these structures, their playful and even elegant forms and subtle colors. They make for an artistic statement, be it in a Mediterranean landscape, an eclectic “California mix”, or the landscape design adorning a modern home.
Since the sails can be mounted on roofs, façades or free-standing posts not planted in a fixed square or rectangle, I enjoy the artistic freedom that this allows my residential landscape design; these free-form shapes can totally transform a bland landscape into an architectural showpiece.
I love shade sails and want to learn more about using them in my landscape designs. Currently we use Arbors and pergolas to break up light as well as trees of course. I think this ads a whole other feel to an outdoor environment.
What was the name & contact information of the shade sail company? Will you send a link to the company please?
Thanks, Crystal
Hi, thanks for the comments and your interest. I am currently looking into working with two companies: http://www.sunshade-shadesails.com/ , Jez Stratton, (925) 218-4079, or http://californiasailshades.com/ Dan Mezich 760-535-1966 ; the company that installed the La Jolla sails doesn’t exist anymore. I believe both companies have offices outside of California that could advise you.
Been wanting to incorporate them for a long time, just concerned about our
occasional 90 mph wind gusts in the Antelope Valley.
I agree! I love the sculptural quality that shade sails add to the landscape. Thanks for an informative post.
Hi Dottie, thanks for the comment; it’s nice to be ‘seconded’ in these design issues.
I’d talk to an installer of these elements directly; you might be surprised about how strong these sails can be – if the installation is done right.
Good luck!
Christiane,
Thanks for bringing the concept to everyone’s attention, and all the comments.
I was involved in a project in London in 1977 which used a fabric tension
structure for a bandstand in Westminster, (London). Visually it was on the lines of the Munich Olympic Stadium; much has changed since then and it is good to know that the fabric is now fire rated and available for smaller projects.
Compared to pergolas and arbours which are relatively permanent these sails have numerous advantages such as potential ease of relocation and replacement, the possibility of inducing cooling convection airflow in humid weather and some privacy from the influx of privately owned drones with video cameras.
If I am verbose , its the result of enthusiasm.
Hi “mi.sienko”,
thank you for contributing with your interesting comment. Your observation about the protection from UFOs (unmanned flying objects) that shade sails provide is intriguing, and I hadn’t considered it…
I have installed one in my own backyard patio area and realize I need two to create the right effect. I really like the triangle shape and texture. Mine has been up almost a year, and with all kinds of weather/wind it is doing fine. I love the fact I can blow leaves and pinestraw off when needed from under it! I have used a brand available on line called ‘Coolaroo’ and was just looking at their site on line over Christmas for more ideas. I am very happy with this brand.
Thanks for sharing great post, I think stretched sail shades are best for Outdoor shading,