If you live in Brisbane and surrounds, you would at some point spend time under a shade structure, whether it be at a park, coffee shop, school, shopping centre or one of the theme parks on the Gold Coast.
What are shade structures used for in Brisbane?
The UV index in Brisbane averages around 6, which by the Australia bureau of Meteorology standard is high (see UV index table below).
Owing to the high UV conditions we live in, shade sails are a common sight set-up to offer sun protection at schools, child care centres, aquatic parks, car parks, swimming pools and everything you can think of in-between.
How much UV Protection do shade sails offer?
It is widely understood that UV radiation is a major cause of skin cancer, eye damage, sun burn and premature ageing and sun awareness needs to be instilled from an early age. Where children play in controlled environments, it is important that they are not over exposed to the sun and UVR. As shade sails cut back between 90 to 100% of UV radiation, it offers the ideal solution for any outdoor environment where people are exposed to the sun and UVR.
Why choose a shade sail over traditional structures?
- Shade sails breathe. Shade sails pullcooler air from below the shade cloth to replace the heat generated at the top of the sun canopy. Traditional solid structures don’t have this feature and therefore restrict the ventilation.
- Shade sails can be attractive. They enhance any environment and look good on new and old buildings.
- Added property value. Shade sails that are properly designed and installed are an investment that will increase the value to your property.
- They are robust. You can expect a minimum of 10 years guarantee on a shade sail installed in Brisbane.
What shape of shade sail is best?
Triangular shaped shade sails are one of the more commonly used shapes this is because they are less likely to sag and balloon up, are used for aesthetic reasons and provide better tension which keeps them in position for longer. Also, multiple layers of triangular shaped fabric shade make for a more interesting visual effect than a solid square. With Brisbane’s humidity ranging from 50% in Winter and 65% to 70% in Summer, using multiple layers of triangular shapes supports more air flow under the shade structure versus a solid roof.
How long does a shade structure take to be installed in Brisbane?
The short answer is about 12 weeks, but there are naturally factors like rain, the size of the structure and Council approvals that could impact the timeline. For more information on the full installation process, read more about it here.
Do I need Council approval for a shade sail in Brisbane?
In short yes, there are however several situations that you won’t need to get Council approval, for instance if you’re installing a small awning at the back of your residential property. If any part of the shade sail is in front of the building line on the side of the primary street, it requires Council permission.
How much does it cost to have a shade sail installed?
Shade sails costs vary significantly depending on variables like size of the structure, fabric chosen, location (on top of a 10-storey building or an open park) but the starting price is from $6,000 to 8,000 for an average-sized custom designed sail. Most residential installations use two or three sails to get good shade coverage and a crisp, modern look, while larger areas or commercial installations require the involvement of an engineer or architect.
Conclusion
Getting a custom shade structure installed for your customers, team or children is a great solution to reduce their expose to harmful UVR and add value to your property for many years to come.
Choosing Durable Shade Structures for Brisbane
Which structures handle Brisbane’s summer storms?
Brisbane’s warm, humid summers bring heavy rain and strong storm winds. For exposed sites such as open parks or coastal areas, fixed-roof structures in polycarbonate or steel are designed to resist wind uplift. Shade sails can also perform well if they are properly tensioned and anchored at multiple points, which stops the fabric flapping or tearing and extends its life.
Which materials last best in Brisbane’s humidity?
Powder-coated or galvanised steel and aluminium frames resist rust and corrosion, which suits Brisbane’s humidity and coastal salt air. Colorbond steel is another rust-resistant option. Fabrics and finishes should be UV-treated to prevent fading and weakening. Timber offers a natural look but needs regular sealing or painting, while most metal and synthetic options need very little upkeep.
What shade works for transport hubs and car parks?
Cantilever shades give wide coverage with fewer poles, so drivers can manoeuvre easily in car parks and at bus stops. Shade protects vehicles from interior fading and dashboard cracking. Continuous covered walkways let passengers move between parking, terminals and platforms out of the weather, and larger structures suit taxi ranks and drop-off zones. Car park roofs can also carry solar panels to power lighting or EV charging.
Can shade lower energy costs for Brisbane buildings?
Yes. Aluminium sunhoods reduce heat gain inside commercial buildings and add a clean architectural feature at the same time. Shading entrances, windows and outdoor waiting areas limits heat soak, which lowers the load on air conditioning and cuts operating costs. In car parks, shade also reduces the heat radiating from asphalt, making the area more comfortable to walk through.
What about shopping centres and industrial sites?
In large retail precincts, car park shade sails keep vehicles cool, protect car interiors and give shoppers a more comfortable visit. For industrial sites, structures are built to withstand tough conditions while protecting staff, visitors and equipment. Office buildings benefit too, with shaded outdoor break areas giving employees somewhere comfortable to rest during the day.
Should I choose a retractable or fixed structure?
Retractable canopies suit outdoor dining areas, rooftop bars and multi-use spaces, as they can be extended in the hottest part of the day and retracted in cooler weather. For walkways, bus shelters and large community spaces, fixed-roof structures in polycarbonate or steel give permanent protection from sun, rain and wind. For all-weather trading, consider waterproof shade structures.
What extra features can be built in?
Brisbane shade structures can include integrated lighting, gutters for water management, rainwater harvesting and solar panels. Fabric colours can be matched to your branding or surroundings, and large signage can be added at entrances and walkways. Automated roofs that retract or tilt in response to weather sensors are also becoming more common.
To plan a durable shade structure for your Brisbane site, get in touch with our team.