| Tension-Membrane/Large Shade Structures Q: Is shade cloth waterproof? A: Since it is primarily designed to provide shade protection and to cool by allowing hot air to rise, shade cloth is not waterproof. In a light rain, water will generally run off the fabric. In a heavy rain, the fabric will become saturated, water will come through and you will get wet. Q: Why does the UV % blockage differ within the same brand of shade cloth? A: Each color reacts differently in terms of the amount of UV rays that the particular color either absorbs and/or reflects. Therefore each color will have a different UV blockage and a different % shade rating. In general, lighter colors of shade cloth have lower UV blockage than darker colors. Q: How Do I clean my shade sail? A: Our Shade fabric is manufactured from High Density Polyethylene, or HDPE which is naturally resistant to dirt and does not retain moisture. This means it will not rot or mildew unlike canvas or other similar products. However, as it is exposed to dust and moisture over time, the shade fabric may become dirty. Q: Are tensioned structures environmentally friendly? A: When compared to conventional construction, tensile structures come out way ahead on the positive environmental impact scale: • They use very small amounts of material to cover large spans. This means the least amount of material is required to build these structures, thus saving resources. • They allow for natural ventilation. • They provide translucency for natural day lighting. • They generally use light colored material for roofs thus reducing heat. Q: Are building permits required? A: As a general rule, building permits are required in most areas. Within Florida, this does vary by county. ShadeTree Structures Q: Is the ShadeTree system available in different widths? A: Yes. The ShadeTree system can be made to cover an area the width needed by simply adding additional canopy sections. Q: How long can the canopies span (project)? A: Twenty-one feet is the maximum recommended projection. Longer projections can be installed using aluminum track by erecting a support system at the end of one set of tracks and installing a second set of canopies to extend the span. Q: What keeps the canopies from being damaged in gusting winds? A: A special wind release mechanism is used on each section of canopy. If left extended during wind storms, the canopies will release so they can float freely in the tracks to minimize the danger of damage. We do recommend that the canopies be retracted whenever not in use, especially if the owner is absent. Q: Will the fabrics fade? A: No. Sunbrella is a well-respected, solution-dyed acrylic outdoor fabric, made by Glen Raven Mills. It is guaranteed for five years against fading, rot, mold or mildew. These are the same fabrics used on boats as well as commercial awnings. Q: Is there a warranty on ShadeTree Canopies? A: Yes. The system's posts and tracks are warranted for 10 years against breakage following installation. Hardware is also warranted to remain operable for five years following installation. Sunbrella® fabrics have a warranty for five years against fading and mildew. Q: Are building permits required? A: As a general rule, building permits are required in most areas when attaching a structure to your home. Within Florida, this does vary by county. If installing a free-standing structure, usually a permit is not required. |
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