How to get a good shade in Spain

The arrival of good weather invites us to enjoy the terrace or the garden. We know that the sun is very good for a while, but then you have to take cover. Especially those of us who starts looking like boiled lobsters in a question of minutes under a scorching sun.

An economical, resistant and practical solution is a sail awning. Today we show you these types of sail awnings, because we find them attractive and it  doesn't have to cost you more than a normal awning, You can find a collection for each type of climate and according to your tastes. And also, a very decorative solution.

 

What is a sail awning?

First thing first. You have probably already seen them in bar terraces, patios, beach bars and other spaces that need shelter from the sun. They offer high protection and are a thermal barrier to reduce the sensation of heat. There are squares and triangles to choose from according to your taste and the space to be covered.

 

How to choose the best sail awning?

Before purchasing your sail awning, you must take into account the orientation and size of the area you want to cover. If you have a south-facing terrace, you will have intense sun during noon and many hours longer. The north and east orientations need protection in the morning and the west in the afternoon.

The color you choose will also help you block or allow light to pass through: the darker the awning, the more sun protection it offers. The lighter ones will filter the sun's rays better and, therefore, will give you more luminosity.

Well of course, in terms of colors your neighborhood community also influences. Do not forget to check if there is any agreement on the color or the design.

The light and imaginative character of textile architecture is a type of solar protection that responds to the need for light structures that provide the robustness of construction sites. Either to add to existing buildings, or, by themselves, for the use of outdoor spaces.

Textile architecture is basically represented by static fabric surfaces achieved by an exerted tension to the fabric through a combination of steel structures mast) and cable ties.

It is a very unique type of sun protection solution, with the possibility of designing infinite three-dimensional shapes (lax, aerial, triangular, hyperbolic paraboloids, Conoids of revolution, etc.).

The applications of textile architecture range from small tensioned textile membranes for private terraces and gardens to the most complex constructions simulating large construction constructions.

 

Tensioned fabrics

The membranes of the tense structures are characterized by presenting a double curvature that makes them adopt three-dimensional shapes. Thanks to technology and the help of computer programs, it is possible to design and calculate the ideal fabric pattern for optimal resistance to weather conditions.

Different fabrics such as PVC-coated polyester fiber, whether mass-manufactured or micro-perforated, are the ideal fabrics that provide taut structures with imaginative shapes of great plastic beauty and total effectiveness. The numerous treatments and resistance characteristics that the fabrics have make them ideal for resisting outdoors in severe weather conditions.

Thanks to the fabric as a covering element and due to its light and original appearance, it has a high degree of adaptation to any environment.

lightweight structures

The structures of the tensile static surfaces composed of masts and high resistance braided cables, designed and calculated by textile engineers and architects, represent the tension skeleton of textile membranes.

Galvanized steel, lacquered steel and stainless steel structures provide the possibility of offering different finishes.

Resulting structures with a suggestive character enhancing the lightness of the stretched canvases.

 

Breathable sail awnings.

The weather is also important. If you live in an area with a dry climate and high temperatures like the East or South Spain the ideal are breathable types that provide freshness by allowing the air to circulate through the fabric. They are perfect for patios and terraces very exposed to high temperatures, with many hours of sun.

These types allows hot air to escape, blocks ultraviolet rays and ensures freshness in the shaded part. Other more opened types can allow greater passage of light and provide a very decorative touch. With these awnings the wind is not a problem because, precisely, they let the air circulate. Of course, with breathable models you should watch what you put underneath when it rains.

 

Elastic and waterproof sail awnings.

If you live in a rainy and humid area, such as north Spain, your awning should be one with a waterproof fabric such as coated polyester fabrics, which is also elastic, thus ensuring a perfect tension and prevent water pockets from being created.

 

What installation and care does a sail awning need?

Sail awnings are easy to install. They have rings at the ends and can be attached to walls, trees or posts. Remember to always place it with a slight incline in case it rains, to prevent it from retaining water. Its maintenance and cleaning is simple, basically with soap and water.

Most types are available in by Googling in your local area. Best is to go for a bona fide company that has been a few years on business.