A shade cloth awning can be a very good choice for any outdoor area; over a patio or deck, it provides needed shade and added protection from wind and rain so you can enjoy your outdoor space even in inclement weather. Such an awning can also protect windows and their frames from potential water damage, and also help direct rainwater away from the home's foundation or delicate flowerbeds you have planted under the windows. Note a few tips for choosing the best shade cloth awning fabric for your home so you know you're happy with this investment for years to come.

Colour doesn't mean shade

Never assume that a darker colour of sail will automatically provide shade from the sun; a darker colour but looser weave of the fabric can actually let in lots of sunlight, and even trap heat that makes an outdoor space very uncomfortable. Look for UV resistant fabric for maximum shade; this will actually bounce sunlight off the top of the fabric rather than letting it pass through the fabric's weave.

Durability versus folding

If you want a fabric awning to be durable against rain, snow, and high winds, you'll need a thick wool fabric that holds its shape and which doesn't fold or move very easily. Nylon and polyester are also good for remaining durable and strong.

However, if your fabric awning will be attached to a crank or will otherwise be folded up and out of the way, those thicker fabrics may not crease and fold very easily. Look for a soft cotton blend with a water-resistant coating; this will help repel water from its surface while still allowing the fabric to bend and fold as needed.

Water resistance

An awning over a window can help direct rainwater away from the home; this can be good for an outdoor seating area, or for protecting flowerbeds and landscaping, as mentioned above. However, to ensure that rainwater doesn't just drip through the awning, choose a fabric that is considered marine grade. This will mean a dense and strong weave, much like what is used on boats, and which will repel water rather than letting it run through the fabric. A vinyl mesh is also more waterproof than other natural fabrics; this is a type of plastic that is mixed with fabric and which will repel water while still offering the look of a soft fabric material for the awning itself.