Experienced shade industry professionals will tell you of their thousands of projects no two are identical.  The size, condition, limitations and location of every site are all different and clients have different requirements and tastes.

A good shade industry professional will assist you with advice as to what is best for that site.  Sometimes that advice might be to not have a shade sail or shade structure.  It is always prudent to gather information from two or more sources on matters of design and cost.  Most shade industry professionals are willing to give time and advice freely but as commercial operators their time is valuable.  More detailed information such as site drawings, sketches, photo overlays, engineering, sun mapping etc often have a cost that is usually refunded if the project proceeds.  Standard quotations are normally free of any charge.

As a potential client you will probably be asked :-

• What your needs are…
• If shade only or waterproof is required…
• If you have a particular design in mind…
• If you have a budget…
• If there are timelines or limitations…
• If other advice has been obtained…

It happens that sometimes what the client has in mind is not technically possible or is perhaps an unsafe or unwise design.  Be assured that your shade industry professionals will do what they can to meet your needs.

So what is it to be?  A shade sail or shade structure? 

Generally a shade sail and a shade structure covering the same area will cost about the same.  It is also generally true that shade structures are more “shade efficient”.  The trick is to get the best design for a particular site which suits the client.  Sometimes a compromise has to be made between technical feasibility, looks, shade efficiency and budget.

Because of the specialised nature of tensioned membranes we also advise architects, engineers, landscapers, builders and developers and basically all of the above is applicable.

Your shade industry professional will know what the local building authorities require in the construction of a shade sail or shade structure in your area.  Special attention is given to workplace and public areas.