While shade does not provide 100% protection from ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun, it does reduce direct sun exposure and is important in preventing skin cancer.
Recommended materials for shade
There is a large choice of manufactured shade materials and each provides different UVR protection.
Awnings and outdoor roofing materials
These are durable, require minimal maintenance and provide all weather protection. Where possible, high use areas such as verandahs and picnic tables should have a solid roof to maximise UVR protection.
Aluminium and tin
These materials are also durable, require minimal maintenance and usually provide maximum protection from UVR.
Polycarbonate and fibreglass
Whilst these sheetings are solid, they allow in infra red (heat) rays and visible light. They are useful for locations where winter heating is desirable. Before using these products, contact the manufacturer about UVR transmittance. Try to use products that offer maximum UVR protection.
Umbrellas, canopies and canvas
These provide different levels of UVR protection. Like clothing, the density of the material weave is critical; the denser the weave, the higher the sun protection factor. When new, canvas umbrellas usually offer high UVR protection. However, prolonged exposure to weather can deteriorate this protection and make it less effective. If material used is plastic coated, it may provide more protection as plastics generally absorb UVR well.
Shadecloth
This is the least effective roofing material for UVR protection as it allows a large amount of UVR to pass through. Generally, if you hold the cloth up to the light, the more you can see through it, the less UVR protection it provides. Tightly woven shadecloth can absorb up to 90% of UVR. Remember colour, washing and the level of tensioning of the cloth can alter its UVR absorption properties. Contact the manufacturer to find out the sun protection ability of their shadecloth. Recommend only shadecloth with maximum UVR protection. If shadecloth is used, it is very important that people still wear sun protective clothing and sunscreen.
Shade resources:
Creating Better Shade Brochure, Planning for Sun-Safe Outdoor Environments in Queensland – Shade for Swimming Pools, and Planning for Sun-Safe Outdoor Environments in Queensland – Shade for Sports Fields. All published by Queensland Health, available free from the Queensland Cancer Fund’s Cancer Helpline 13 11 20.
Creating Shade at Public Facilities – Policy and Guidelines for Local Government, available on the Queensland Health Healthy Living Website.
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© The State of Queensland (Queensland Health) 2008.
