Coolaroo Fabric

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I care for my Coolaroo products, such as shade sails?

Your Coolaroo fabric may be cleaned at any time using a solution of mild detergent and water. Apply the solution with a sponge or a very soft brush. Let the solution stand on the fabric for 10 minutes and rinse thoroughly with water from your garden hose.

DO NOT put the fabric in your washing machine, clothes drier, or scrub it with a stiff brush, scouring pad, or an abrasive cleaner.

Shade sails will need periodic checking of the tension to ensure the right amount of tensioning, as fabric will naturally stretch over time.

2. What are UVB rays?

UVB, or ultraviolet B, radiation is the kind that causes sunburn – and skin cancer. Its waves travel at short frequencies, and they don’t penetrate beyond the skin’s outer surface. It’s easy to see when a body’s been exposed to UVB – both sunburn and golden tans signal too much UVB.¹

3. What are UVA rays?

UVA radiation travels in long waves that skip right past the skin’s surface, holding their fire for the collagen that gives skin its elasticity. Scientists have come to understand that while UVA damage isn’t immediately visible, it takes a long-term toll on the dermis. UVA exposure is now thought to be a prime factor in premature wrinkling. UVA is now also thought to alter skin cells’ DNA, causing mutations that can lead to cancer.¹

4. Is the UV % block the same for all colors and shade fabrics?

No, the sun has a different effect on each color, therefore each color will have a different UV percentage. For example, Rainbow Shade 'BLACK' is 99% UV block whilst 'WHITE' is only 78%. In addition, the UV % block can differ significantly between different makes of shade cloth.

5. Is the UV % blockout important?

Yes, very important. We are all aware of the harmful effects of the sun. The higher UV % block fabrics allow less UV rays to penetrate, giving you more protection outdoors.

 

6. Are Coolaroo Shade Sails waterproof?

No, Coolaroo shade sails are not waterproof. Shade sail fabric is designed to block the sun’s rays and keep the area cooler, which requires the fabric to “breathe,” thus the fabric is not waterproof. A light mist or rain will likely be blocked by the fabric, but a steady rain will drip water through the fabric.

7. How do I install a Coolaroo Shade Sail?

Shade Sail installation instructions can be found by clicking here. It is recommended that you check with your Homeowner’s Association or local building regulations before installing a Shade Sail.

8. Do you offer a warranty on the Coolaroo products?

Most Coolaroo products are covered by a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty against UV breakdown. Please check each individual product page for specific details.

 

¹ Jennifer Huget, the Washington Post, Tuesday, June 28, 2005

 

Copyright 2006 www.OutdoorDecor.com