Shade sails are a way of providing comfortable shade in modern landscapes. Each sail is a strip of fabric that’s been specially-designed to withstand an incredible amount of pressure. Each sail is mounted to steel posts and tightened so it won’t flap or move even in wind speeds as high as 100 mph.
- With contemporary architecture
since shade sails have the swooping, geometric look of a modern art installation, they look best with contemporary architecture. - When you want winter sun
Shade sails are one of the few ways of getting shade in the landscape that can be taken down when desired. If you want to let as much light as possible into the house during the winter, a shade sail will work better for you then a pergola, which can’t be moved. - If your style is artistic
You can choose the color and size of shade sail you prefer, so if your landscape has a lot of creative touches or bold use of color, a shade sail will fit right in with that artful style. Of course, they’re available in neutral colors as well if your style is more laid-back.
- With fussy architecture
If the architecture has a lot of detail, it doesn’t go as well with a shade sail. But Berger adds, A lot of the time, the architecture is so benign that it doesn’t have a distinct style of its own, so a shade sail works well. - If you’re looking for the cheapest solution
A simple wooden pergola with a lattice roof can run quite a bit less than a professional-grade shade sail. There is a deceptive amount of engineering and work involved in shade sail manufacture and installation.
The costs vary depending on the size, design and material used.