As the sunny days increase after winter, the question quickly arises about protection from sunlight, which includes harmful UV radiation. There are several options, with one of the most flexible and simplest being the sun sail. Below, we answer frequently asked questions about the sun sail, which you can find in our garden/balcony assortment along with other products like privacy screens or lawn edges.
What is a Sun Sail?
Sun sails are sails made from various types of fabric, and their primary function is protection from sunlight. Typically in the form of triangles, rectangles, or trapezoids, sun sails not only provide a shaded area outdoors but also offer privacy from prying eyes. They can be used wherever there are attachment points or where they can be created. Whether on a balcony, terrace, or in the garden – the sun sail has numerous applications. Depending on the material used, the sail can also provide protection from rain. Unlike umbrellas, sun sails do not require additional space, so you can fully utilize your balcony or terrace.
Another advantage of sun sails is their great flexibility, as they can usually be attached wherever needed and are not fixed in one place like an awning. The position of the sun sail can often be adjusted depending on the time of day, for example, when the midday sun appears. This flexibility also makes the sun sail a popular companion for camping trips with RVs or caravans, providing reliable sun protection and more camping comfort.
What Material is a Sun Sail Made From?
There are different materials from which a sun sail can be made. We offer sails made from high-quality HDPE polyester. The properties of this material include its wind permeability and resistance to weather, fading, and mold. Additionally, polyester sun sails are form- and tear-resistant, as well as easy to maintain.
There are also sun sails made from polyethylene, a fabric that is coarser and therefore breathable, but still durable and waterproof. Finally, acrylic is another possible material for sun sails, known for its resistance, stain resistance, and tear strength.
What Sun Sail Options Are There?
There are also differences in the shape of the sun sail. Generally, there are square, rectangular, and triangular versions. The triangle sails have a great look and are particularly suitable for smaller areas or as an additional shade provider. Due to the triangular shape of the sun sail, it can be flexibly stretched anywhere it's needed, such as for privacy screening.
Alternatively, a rectangular sun sail can be used. Whether as a rectangle or square, these sun sails are the optimal shade providers. In addition, these sails not only serve as sun and privacy protection, but they are also suitable as rain protection. However, it's important to note that for triangular sun sails, a single mast is sufficient for stretching, while rectangular sun sails generally require two masts for installation.
How is a Sun Sail Installed?
When installing, the sail masts should first be tilted about ten degrees against the pulling direction to improve tension and stability. It is important to consider sufficient space at the attachment points and allow for a reserve for re-tightening. Additionally, the sail should be tensioned from each attachment point in the pulling direction, and you should regularly re-tighten the sail to maintain tension.
For the best pulling direction, the sun sail should always be stretched diagonally from corner to corner. Due to the concave shape of the sail, tension is transferred outward, preventing sagging and wrinkles. It is best to stretch the sail with a slope of 20 to 25 percent so that water can drain off easily and the formation of water pockets is avoided.
What Color is Best for a Sun Sail?
There are differences not only in the shape of the sun sail but also in its color. The basic decision is between dark or light colors. If you want a lot of light under the sun protection and more brightness in the shaded area, it's beneficial to choose a sun sail in white or beige.
If you're more concerned about hiding dirt, such as from insects, a dark-colored sun sail is a good choice. Additionally, a dark sun sail can also be great for making a statement in the garden.
How Can I Attach a Sun Sail Without Drilling?
For sun sails on the balcony without drilling holes, there is the option to use adjustable masts attached with pipe clamps and hang the sail from them. Rope tensioning techniques are also a possibility to stretch the sail at fixed points such as roof beams or railings. It is important to note that this drill-free mounting method is only suitable for balconies in wind-protected locations.
If the sun sail is to be mounted on a terrace without drilling holes in the house wall, using a frame is a smart solution. If you plan to mount the sun sail freestanding on the ground or lawn, you can use heavy bases for the lawn, earth spikes, or ground anchors, which can be easily driven into the ground. The important thing is that the sail is securely anchored and stretched tightly.
Feel free to be inspired by our sun sail assortment and bring shade and more privacy to your outdoor area with ease.
