In an early design phase, "a shade sail will go here later" is quickly noted. By the time of execution planning and tendering, this becomes a series of concrete questions: Which area should actually be shaded? Where are the directions of tension? How much tensioning space remains between the fabric and the attachment point? Which material suits the use – and which services are actually part of the shade sail?
UNICOVR shade sails are available as custom-made products. For architects, landscape architects, and planning offices, the clear separation is particularly important: the sail can be precisely defined in terms of geometry and material; the supporting structure, structural analysis, foundations, and site-specific permits remain independent planning modules.
Integrate shade sails early into design and open space planning
A shade sail works best when the shaded area, architecture, and mounting are considered together. In new buildings, suitable attachment points can be considered early on. In existing buildings, however, existing facades, supporting structures, roof structures, or open spaces determine the possibilities.
For squares, inner courtyards, daycare centers, schools, catering establishments, residential complexes, and commercial outdoor areas, the actual usage time should first be defined. The shadow cast in the morning can be significantly different from that in the late afternoon with the same geometry.
Clearly describe geometry
Rectangles, squares, triangles, and trapezoids can be described with clear side dimensions. For deviating geometries, additional measurements and diagonals are important. UNICOVR freeforms work with straight edges; decoratively concave edges are not part of our system.
Furthermore, for planning: The distance between two structural attachment points is not automatically the order dimension of the sail. Connecting elements and tensioning space require room. This separation should already be visible in planning documents and detailed drawings.
Define material based on function – not just by sample card
Water-permeable HDPE is suitable for airy sun protection and avoids a closed surface for rain. Waterproof coated polyester can offer additional rain protection but requires a gradient, planned water drainage, and a correspondingly sound construction. Especially in entrance, catering, or lounge areas, the drainage point should therefore be part of the planning and not just the installation meeting.
Keep interfaces between planning, support structure, and fabric clean
| Planning topic | What should be determined before ordering |
|---|---|
| Usage | Shade time, lounge area, pedestrian flows, and potentially rain protection |
| Geometry | Shape, side dimensions, diagonals, and elevation |
| Construction | Suitable attachment points, tensioning paths, and tension directions |
| Supporting structure | Proper dimensioning of the mounting, mast, and foundation |
| Operation | Access, inspection, removal during critical weather, and storage |
Compare shapes and costs early
In the configurator, you can pre-calculate different geometries, dimensions, and equipment. This allows a realistic product price to be determined at an early stage.
For open spaces, neighborhoods, and publicly used outdoor areas
For municipal projects, parks, and squares, the shade sail is only part of the heat protection strategy. Trees and green structures fulfill additional ecological and microclimatic functions; textile shading can supplement where shade is needed in the short term or natural shading is insufficient. For public clients, the page Shade sails for public spaces and municipalities elaborates on operational requirements.
Planning turns into an order
Once the shape, fabric dimensions, and material are determined, the configuration can be completed directly online. For complex projects, dimensional sketches, photos, and structural constraints should be clearly documented so that the ordered geometry remains reproducible.
For the execution side of the project, our page for property developers, construction companies, and general contractors is additionally relevant.