Benefits of a swimming pool shade sail for aquatic centres
The harsh Australian sun can be brutal during the summer, so there's no question why swimming pool sail shades have become increasingly popular in Australian aquatic centres. Adding a swimming pool shade sail to your aquatic centre is a smart investment that combines aesthetic appeal with practical benefits. These shades are more than your standard pool umbrellas – they provide essential UV protection, ensuring your visitors can enjoy the pool without the risk of sunburn or heat exposure. In this blog, we'll explore the advantages of installing sail shades for swimming pools, the different shade sail fabrics available, and how they contribute to a safer and more enjoyable aquatic environment.
Benefits of installing swimming pool sail shades
Swimming pool shades offer numerous benefits that make them an ideal choice for aquatic centres:
1. UV protection
No one likes sunburns or overheating, which is why a shade sail is the perfect solution for reducing sun exposure and protecting swimmers from the sun's harmful UV rays. These shades can block up to 98% of UV radiation, reducing the risk of skin damage and making it safer for everyone to enjoy the water for extended periods.
2. Temperature control
There’s nothing worse than a hot pool on a sweltering day. How do you fix this? By installing permanent shade structures. These help maintain cooler temperatures around the pool area, making it more comfortable for users even during the hottest summer days. Not only does this enhance the user experience, but it also reduces the need for additional cooling measures, such as tree coverage or pool chillers.
3. Reduced glare
If you don’t want to swim with your sunnies on, shade sails effectively reduce glare on the water's surface, making it easier for lifeguards to monitor swimmers and for visitors to enjoy a relaxing swim without the discomfort of bright reflections.
4. Aesthetic appeal
Available in various designs, colours, and shapes, sail shades can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your aquatic centre. They can be customised to complement existing architecture and create a welcoming and attractive environment for visitors.
5. Maintenance and pool protection
The last thing you want to be doing on a hot day is scooping out leaf litter when it’s a scorcher. Beyond user comfort, sail shades also help protect the pool itself by reducing the amount of debris, such as leaves and dirt, that can accumulate in the water. This can lead to lower maintenance costs and a cleaner, more inviting pool area.
Choosing the right materials for your pool shade sails
When selecting the right shade fabric for your swimming pool, the choice between HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is critical:
HDPE: Durability and resistance
Known for its durability and UV resistance, HDPE is a popular shade cloth for pools and local aquatic centres. Its breathable structure allows air to circulate, it blocks harmful sun rays, and its resistance to chlorine and moisture makes it a no-brainer for large-scale aquatic centres. This material typically costs between AUD 30 and AUD 60 per square metre, making it an affordable option for many aquatic centres.
PVC: Waterproofing and UV protection
For those seeking another waterproof option that still offers UV protection, PVC is a robust option. Although more expensive, with prices ranging from $40 to $90 per square metre, PVC is ideal for areas that require complete water resistance.
