Sun shade sails are a popular solution for outdoor shade and UV protection. When planning your space, one crucial question to consider is:
Should you choose a breathable sun shade sail or waterproof sun shade sail?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you make an informed decision:
1) Fabric
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Waterproof sun shade sails
Our waterproof sun shade sails are made of tightly woven polyester with a waterproof coating, effectively preventing water from seeping through.
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Breathable sun shade sails
In contrast, our breathable sun shade sails are crafted from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), a permeable woven fabric that allows water to gradually pass through.
| Waterproof sun shade sail fabric (Outdoor canvas) | Breathable sun shade sail Fabric(HDPE) | |
| Waterproof | Yes, but recommended to be taken down when raining to avoid water pooling | No |
| UV protection | Yes | Yes |
| Light Filtering | Better blackout effect | Light colors may allow slight glare |
2) Installation
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Waterproof sun shade sails
As the water can not get through, waterproof sun shade sails are more prone to water pooling, which can lead to fabric deformation and sail sagging. Therefore, they require a proper installation slope to facilitate water drainage.
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Breathable sun shade sails
Breathable sails, on the other hand, do not require as much of a slope for effective installation and performance, as the fabric weight is lighter and are less likely have watered pooling on the surface.
3) Key performance
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Waterproof sun shade sails
Waterproof sun shade sails offer more comprehensive protection—they block more sunlight, prevent water penetration, and filter out debris effectively. Therefore, they are ideal when you want an all-round protection.
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Breathable sun shade sails
Breathable sun shade sails promote better airflow, helping to reduce heat accumulation under the sail. They are excellent for hot climates where cooling and air circulation are priorities, and their structure naturally minimizes water pooling and fabric deformation.