Why every school should invest in high-quality shade sails

Slip, slop, slap, and school shade sails? Well, shade structures are just as important as encouraging young people to put on sunscreen and wear their school hats. These structures provide effective protection against harmful UV rays while promoting outdoor learning and play. Whether you're looking to cover playgrounds, courtyards, or other outdoor areas, installing shade sails in schools and universities offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. In this blog, we'll explore the advantages of shade sails in educational settings, considerations for choosing the right materials, and tips for installation and maintenance.

Benefits of installing school shade sails

Shade sails provide significant protection from the sun's harmful UV rays, which is especially important for children and young adults who spend a considerable amount of time outdoors. These sails can block up to 98% of UV radiation, reducing the risk of skin damage and skin cancer and promoting safer outdoor activities.

Schools have become more supportive of outdoor learning and have looked to shade sails as a practical solution for creating comfortable and safe learning environments. Covered outdoor learning areas can be used for classes, breaks, and extracurricular activities, providing students with a comfortable environment to enjoy fresh air while staying protected from the sun.

If you’re worried about how your grounds will look with new shade structures, don’t worry. Shade sails come in a variety of colours, shapes, and designs, allowing schools and universities to enhance the visual appeal of their campuses while remaining on brand with their logo or existing buildings.

Compared to permanent structures, shade sails are a cost-effective way of ensuring mass sun protection. They are also easier and quicker to install, making them an efficient solution for schools that need quick shade.

When selecting shade sails for schools and universities, it's important to consider the specific needs of the institution:

The durability and UV protection capabilities of the shade cloth are crucial. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a popular shade fabric choice due to its strength, flexibility, and ability to block UV rays. This material is also breathable, which helps maintain a comfortable temperature underneath the sail.

Schools often have unique requirements based on the layout of their outdoor spaces. Customisation options, such as colour, shape, and size, allow you to create shade structures that fit perfectly with the school's environment and fulfil your shading needs.

It's essential that the shade sails comply with local council regulations and safety standards. This includes proper installation techniques and using materials that meet fire resistance and structural safety requirements.