Shadesail Maintenance

“Dr Shade” is a new business initiative at Shadeport Australia, which will maximize product life and reduce the chance of failures.

Shade sails and structures, like all things great and small, should receive regular preventative maintenance in order to improve the longevity of all materials.  The frequency of check ups made by Dr Shade, are determined by the size and location of shade structures.  Remembering that small problems left over a period of time, can generally turn into BIG problems, and in this can cause potential injury.  Due to this reason, Shadeport Australia generally recommends the following:

Regular Inspections

Similar to other buildings and structures, sails also require regular inspection.  The fabric, poles, fittings and footings should be checked thoroughly.

Regular Cleaning

If the underside of the shade cloth is looking dull it may require cleaning with a high-pressure cleaner.  The dirt and algae that becomes trapped in the fabric can cause it to deteriorate rapidly, eventually leading to tears in the fabric and eventually replacement.

Re-Tension

Once the shade structure is erected you may notice the fabric beginning to stretch and blow in the wind.  Whilst it may not seem to be harming the fabric directly the amount of damage that this can cause is exceptional.  Relaxed fabric:

  • Catches on overhanging branches, spouting etc. and tears the fabric.
  • Can rub against the steel framework which overtime wears away the fabric.
  • Can cause serious injury should it become free from its connection.

Vandalism & High Winds

In the event of unusually high winds or vandalism a regular inspection should be carried out.  Keep in mind that there may be minor or hidden damage, and that the structure may appear to be OK.  It is possible that damage may have occurred to the fabric, stitching, pole fittings and footing.  Whilst damage such as those listed is not instantly evident, the life of the structure can diminish if not attended to.  Again damage such as this can increase the chances of injury.

All of the maintenance recommendations can be conducted by Dr Shade at a minimal cost.