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Made to Measure Sunshade: The Ideal Sunshade for Your Garden and Terrace
Looking for a custom sunscreen for your garden or patio? At Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem we make sunscreens that fit your outdoor space exactly. No standard sizes, but a cloth tailored exactly to your situation, fixing points and personal taste. Whether you have a compact balcony or a spacious terrace: we provide a sunscreen that offers shade exactly where you want it.
What is a Solar Cloth?
A sunshade, also known as a shade cloth or sunscreen, is a cloth that is hung horizontally or at an angle to block sunlight. It is attached to walls, poles or other sturdy points and provides a large area of shade without an umbrella getting in the way. Sunshades are widely used in gardens, on patios, over children's play areas and at hospitality venues.
The big advantage over a parasol: a sunshade does not take up floor space, does not blow over in a gust of wind, and offers a larger and more even area of shade. In addition, a tightly hung sunshade gives your garden or patio a modern, well-kept look.
Why a Custom Solar Cloth?
Every garden is different. The distances between walls and posts vary, the direction of the sun changes throughout the day, and the atmosphere of your outdoor space requires a fabric to match. A custom sunscreen offers:
- Free choice of shape: triangle, rectangle, square or a special shape, anything is possible.
- Exact fit: no excess fabric, no holes, just a tight fit.
- Material of your choice: permeable for air circulation or waterproof for sun and rain protection.
- UV protection up to 97%: protect yourself, your family and your garden furniture from harmful rays.
- Color choices: from sand, white and gray to anthracite, blue or a color to match your facade or décor.
- Durable materials: professional cloths that do not fade and last for years.
Sunscreen for the Garden
A sunscreen in your garden instantly creates a pleasant seating area that you can enjoy even on the hottest days. Hang the cloth above the dining table, the lounge set or the children's sandbox. The open sides allow for sufficient air circulation and it does not feel stuffy.
We often recommend a triangle sunshade for gardens because of its playful look and easy attachment to three points. If you have a larger area to shade, a rectangular or square fabric is the better choice.
Solar Cloth as Canopy
Would you like to provide your patio with a semi-permanent canopy? A waterproof awning provides protection from both sun and rain and functions as a flexible canopy. Unlike a fixed roof, you can easily remove and store the fabric at the end of the season.
For use as a canopy, it is important that the canvas is hung at a sufficient angle (at least 25 degrees) so that rainwater can run off properly. We will advise you on the correct set-up and supply all fixing materials.
Waterproof or Permeable Solar Cloth
Are you unsure between a waterproof or permeable awning fabric? Below we list the main differences for you.
Permeable sunshade
A permeable sunscreen is the lightest and most breathable option. It allows light showers to pass through but offers excellent UV protection. It is ideal if you are primarily looking for shade and want to leave the fabric hanging all season. The air permeability prevents heat buildup under the fabric.
Waterproof solar fabric
A waterproof awning protects against both sun and rain. This allows you to stay outside even during a summer shower. Please note that a waterproof fabric must always hang at an angle for proper drainage. We customize the fabric to ensure optimal drainage at your specific location.
Materials and Finishes
We use only professional materials that can withstand intensive outdoor use:
- Sattler, Sauleda and Sunbrella cloths: the standard in the professional awning industry.
- Weathermax cloth for waterproof applications: reliably water-resistant yet breathable.
- HDPE mesh for water-permeable cloths: light, strong and with excellent UV blocking.
- Stainless steel 316 fasteners: stainless and durable.
- Reinforced seams and corner rings for maximum tensile strength.
- Optional: logo printing for hospitality or corporate use.
How Does It Work?
- Please contact us and describe your situation. Feel free to send along photos of the location.
- We advise on the best shape, material and color for your situation.
- You provide the measurements (distance attachment point to attachment point) or we will come and measure.
- Custom production of the sunscreen in our own workshop in Lemmer.
- Delivery and on-site assembly if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
In practice, the terms are used interchangeably. A solar fabric and a shade cloth are the same product: a cloth hung to block out sunlight. Sometimes ‘sun cloth’ is used for smaller, lighter cloths and ‘shade cloth’ for larger or heavier varieties, but the technology and materials are the same.
It depends on the layout of your garden and the available mounting points. A triangle is popular because of its easy hanging and playful look. A rectangle offers more coverage. We are happy to advise based on photos or a visit.
A properly attached sunshade can withstand normal gusts of wind. In heavy storms, we recommend taking the canvas in. A permeable cloth catches less wind than a waterproof cloth.
The price depends on the size, material and finish chosen. A small triangle sunshade is cheaper than a large waterproof rectangular cloth. Request a free quote for an exact indication.
In many cases, yes, provided you have sturdy mounting points. We supply all the necessary materials and clear instructions along with it. Would you rather have us do it for you? Then we will take care of the assembly.
Rinse the cloth regularly with water. Let it dry completely before storing it. Store the fabric in the winter months or during prolonged storms. With proper maintenance, a professional solar cover will last 10 years or more.
Order custom sunscreens? Request a quote now
Do you want a custom sunscreen for your garden, patio or business? Contact Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem. We will gladly advise you and provide you with a sunscreen that perfectly fits your outdoor space.