Everything You Need to Know Before Buy Shade Cloth in Australia
What is Shade Cloth?
Shade cloth in Australia is a widely used fabric specifically designed to provide shade and protection from the harsh sun.
It is a durable, UV-resistant fabric commonly used on construction sites across Australia. Temp Fence shade cloth is typically applied to temporary fencing, scaffolding, and work areas to provide shade, reduce heat, and improve site safety and privacy.
While often used to block visibility and wind on fencing, its real value on a construction site lies in enhancing worker comfort, protecting materials, and maintaining compliance with site safety and environmental standards.
Key Features and Specifications
Material:
- Most commonly made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), known for its strength, flexibility, and UV resistance.
- Other options include polypropylene or woven polyester mesh, depending on the level of durability and airflow required.
Shade Rating:
Shade cloths come in various shade ratings, ranging from 30% to 90%. The higher the percentage, the greater the amount of sunlight it blocks.
- 30-50% shade: Suitable for providing mild shade and protection for plants or creating privacy screening. On construction sites it can provide adequate windbreaks and dust control without heavily reducing light. You can check out our 30% shade cloth here: https://www.sitehq.com.au/product/shade-cloth-30-block-out/ and our 50% shade cloth here: https://www.sitehq.com.au/product/shade-cloth-50-block-out/
- 70-80% shade: Ideal for creating comfortable, cooler zones in high activity areas, such as break zones, material staging areas, outdoor living areas, patios, or carports, offering protection from the sun’s heat and harmful UV rays. Check out our 70% shade cloth here: https://www.sitehq.com.au/product/shade-cloth-70-block-out/
- 90%+ Shade: Best for maximum sun and UV protection, especially around sensitive equipment or extended working zones or areas exposed to intense sunlight. Check out our 90% Shade cloth here: https://www.sitehq.com.au/product/shade-cloth-90-block-out/
Benefits
- UV & Heat Protection: Reduces exposure to harmful UV rays and helps lower on-site temperatures, improving working conditions for crews and creating cooler and more comfortable outdoor areas.
- Privacy & Security: Acts as a visual barrier to reduce unwanted viewing and prevent theft or site tampering. Ideal for creating privacy barriers around patios, balconies, or pools
- Dust & Debris Control: Helps contain dust and lightweight debris within the site perimeter, supporting environmental compliance.
- Material Protection: Shields construction materials and equipment from direct sun, reducing damage and prolonging usability.
- Weather Durability: High-quality shade cloths are designed to withstand Australian weather conditions, including strong winds and sunlight.
- Plant Protection: Provides shade for delicate plants, preventing them from burning in the harsh sun.
Common Applications of Temp Fence Shade Cloth on Construction Sites
- Temporary Fencing: Attached to perimeter fencing to increase privacy, reduce wind impact, and enhance site aesthetics.
- Scaffolding Wraps: Installed on scaffold structures to protect workers from sun and wind while working at heights.
- Worker Shelters: Used to create shaded rest or eating areas for crews on break.
- Equipment Storage Zones: Covers designated zones to protect tools and materials from direct sun exposure.
- Dust Control Barriers: Especially important in urban construction projects where dust migration must be minimised.
Other applications for Shade Cloth:
- Outdoor living areas: Creating shade over patios, pergolas, verandas, or carports.
- Playgrounds and swimming pools: Providing shade for children playing outdoors or around pool areas.
- Greenhouses and gardens: Protecting plants from excessive sunlight and creating ideal growing conditions.
- Livestock shelters: Creating shaded areas for animals.
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