Your guide to shade sail maintenance
From re-tensioning to regular cleaning here are some easy rules to follow when it comes to shade sail maintenance.
We mainly install shade sails in Mildura to protect us from baking in the Australian heat and like most things in your home, shade sail maintenance is important to keep them working well to protect your family.
Shade sail maintenance can be as easy as removing dirt but there are other things that should be checked when you have an inspection.
- Don’t clean with chemicals: Shade sails in Mildura are installed to make the most of UV protection for pool areas, playgrounds, sand pits or to be used as covers for cars, boats and machinery. When cleaning the material, be sure to only use detergent and water. If you clean your sail with chemicals it could remove the benefits of UV protection provided by the product. It is also beneficial to perform the cleaning side of shade sail maintenance on a warm and sunny day so it dries easily and won’t become mouldy. Simply use a soft-bristle brush and rinse with your garden hose or follow the instructions for a high-pressure cleaner. Don’t be tempted to put it in a washing machine or dryer if it is able to fit as this can destroy the material.
- Check tension and connections to support poles and sails: Over time, wind and weather can loosen the stainless steel tension screws that hold a shade sail in place. It’s important when performing shade sail maintenance to check that safety standards are met and to re-tension the sails annually. It’s also critical to check the welfare of a shade sail after any storms or high winds that may cause damage. Read more about some great benefits of shade sails.
- Keep the surrounding areas clear: Overhanging plants or tree branches can damage sails and threaten to tear the material if left in place for too long. As part of any shade sail maintenance, cut the branches back to keep them from piercing the sail or dropping leaves and twigs onto it. This will also help with future cleaning by preventing the build up of dirt or moss that may begin growing on your shade sail.
When treated properly and looked after, shade sails can last decades and protect your family against harsh Australian conditions for years to come. If you’re thinking about installing a shade sail in Mildura, take a look at our blog on council approvals for shade sails which could make your job a little easier to begin with.
For all your shade sail and gazebo needs, call the team at the Gazebo and Shade Centre Mildura on (03) 5021 2297 to chat about how we can help you today.