Frequently Asked Questions

Shade cloth is a woven or knitted fabric made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene that provides protection from the sun's harmful UV rays while allowing air, water, and light to pass through.

Material & Construction:

• HDPE/Polypropylene: UV-stabilised synthetic fibres resistant to weather and degradation
• Woven Construction: Tightly woven threads create a durable, breathable barrier
• UV Stabilisers: Chemical additives prevent breakdown from sun exposure
• Commercial-Grade: Heavy-duty construction (100-180gsm) for Australian conditions

How It Works:

• UV Protection: Blocks harmful ultraviolet radiation (30%, 50%, or 70% depending on density)
• Heat Reduction: Creates cooler microclimate underneath by reflecting sunlight
• Wind Permeability: Allows air flow to prevent heat buildup and wind damage
• Water Permeable: Rain passes through while providing overhead protection
• Light Diffusion: Scatters harsh direct sunlight into gentler, diffused light

Benefits:

• Reduces plant stress from intense sun and heat
• Prevents sunburn on fruits and vegetables
• Maintains soil moisture by reducing evaporation
• Creates comfortable outdoor living spaces
• Protects against hail and light debris

Our Pre-Made Shade Cloths are ready-to-install with professional finishing and grommets for easy attachment.

We offer a comprehensive range of shade cloths to suit different needs:

Our Recommended Option - Pre-Made Covers:

• Pre-Made Shade Cloths (50% UV Block) - Ready-to-install covers with reinforced hem and grommets. Available in 8m x 12m and 8m x 24m sizes. Perfect for greenhouse kits and polytunnels.

Shade Block Options:

• 30% UV Block: Light shade for sun-loving plants
• 50% UV Block: Balanced protection for most vegetables and plants
• 70% UV Block: Heavy shade for sensitive plants

Available Formats:

• Rolls: Various sizes for custom cutting
• Reinforced Eyelets: Pre-installed eyelets for easy installation
• Pre-Made Covers: Complete finished products (our recommended option)

Custom Solutions:

• Custom Sizing: Need a specific size or shape? We can customise shade cloths to your exact requirements
• Special Applications: Custom shapes, reinforced edges, or special grommet patterns
• Bulk Orders: Large-scale projects with custom dimensions

For custom shade cloth solutions, check out our cut-to-size service.

Our Pre-Made Shade Cloths offer the best value and convenience:

• Ready to Install: Complete finished product with reinforced hem and pre-installed grommets
• Standardised Sizes: 8m x 12m and 8m x 24m - perfect for common greenhouse structures
• Heavy-Duty Construction: 180gsm commercial-grade fabric designed for Australian conditions
• UV Stabilised: Long-lasting protection from sun degradation
• Balanced 50% Shade: Ideal for most plants - reduces heat stress while allowing healthy growth
• Bright White Colour: Reflects heat for cooler environment underneath
• Professional Finish: Heavy-duty reinforced webbing hem with metal grommets

Perfect for: Greenhouse kits, polytunnels, pergolas, patios, carports, and any application requiring quick, professional installation.

Installation depends on the type of shade cloth you choose:

Pre-Made Covers (Recommended):

• Ready to Use: Simply attach using the pre-installed grommets
• Secure Attachment: Use cable ties, rope, clips, or butterfly clips through the grommets
• Perfect Fit: Standardised sizes designed for common structures

Rolls & Reinforced Eyelets:

• Custom Cutting: Cut to your required size
• Eyelet Installation: Use pre-installed eyelets for secure attachment
• Edge Finishing: May require additional hemming or edge treatment

Installation Accessories:

• Butterfly Clips: Professional-grade clips for secure, easy installation
• Cable Ties: Quick and secure attachment method
• Rope & Clips: Traditional installation method

General Installation Tips:

• Ensure proper tension to prevent flapping in wind
• Allow some overlap for better coverage
• Secure all edges and corners firmly
• Consider seasonal removal for winter storage

For professional installation, contact our installation team.

Choose the right shade percentage based on your plants and climate:

30% UV Block:

• Light shade for sun-loving plants
• Suits: Tomatoes, peppers, most vegetables in cooler climates
• Allows more light penetration

50% UV Block (Most Popular):

• Balanced protection for most applications
• Suits: Most vegetables, flowering plants, nursery stock
• Reduces heat stress while allowing healthy growth
• Our recommended choice for general use

70% UV Block:

• Heavy shade for sensitive plants
• Suits: Orchids, ferns, shade-loving plants
• Maximum protection from intense sun

Climate Considerations:

• Hot climates: Consider 50-70% for better heat reduction
• Cool climates: 30-50% may be sufficient
• Seasonal use: You can change shade levels as seasons change

Shade cloth durability depends on the product and usage:

Our Pre-Made Covers:

• 180gsm Commercial-Grade: Heavy-duty construction for multi-season use
• UV Stabilised: Designed to resist sun degradation
• Expected Lifespan: 5+ years with proper care

Standard Rolls (100gsm):

• Good Quality: 3-5 years with proper installation
• UV Protection: Fully stabilised for Australian conditions

Factors Affecting Lifespan:

• Proper installation and tensioning
• Regular cleaning and maintenance
• Climate and UV exposure levels
• Storage during off-season
• Wind and weather conditions

Maintenance Tips:

• Clean regularly with mild soap and water
• Remove during extreme weather when possible
• Store dry and rolled when not in use
• Check grommets and attachments regularly

Shade cloth has many versatile applications:

Plant Protection:

• Greenhouses & Polytunnels: Reduce heat and protect from intense sun
• Vegetable Gardens: Protect crops from sun stress
• Nursery Stock: Shield young plants and seedlings
• Orchards: Protect fruit from sunburn

Outdoor Living:

• Pergolas & Patios: Create comfortable outdoor spaces
• Carports: Protect vehicles from sun damage
• Play Areas: Safe, shaded spaces for children
• Pool Areas: Reduce water heating and provide comfort

Animal Protection:

• Livestock Pens: Provide shade for animals
• Chicken Coops: Protect poultry from heat stress
• Pet Areas: Comfortable outdoor spaces for pets

Privacy & Wind Protection:

• Privacy Screens: Block views while allowing air flow
• Wind Breaks: Reduce wind speed while maintaining ventilation
• Boundary Screening: Define spaces and reduce noise