Shade sails are great outdoor features to add to any school, commercial facility or backyard patio. They provide a comfortable, cool and shaded area for people who don’t want to feel hot or get burned from the sun.

Because of their permanent placement outdoors, shade sails deteriorate rather quickly from the weather’s impact. If you have shade sails on your property, then you need to recognise the early warning signs of their deterioration. That way, you will know to replace them before they get worse.

There are a few clear signs your shade sails might need replacing, including:

1. Wear and TearShade sails are supposed to last for about 50 years with good maintenance. But when they’re neglected, the wear and tear will be visible after a couple of years.

If your shade sails are impacted by heavy wind storms, don’t be surprised when tears and holes start forming in the fabric. You can try stitching smaller holes to preserve the sail for a little while, but eventually, you’ll need to replace the sail entirely.

2. Colour FadingIt is true that shade sails are great at protecting persons from UV rays. However, all this sun exposure will cause the fabric of the sails to fade after a while. You will recognise the fading by simply looking at the colours of the sails.

If the colours are faded or patchy, then this is a clear sign that you have to replace the sails. Otherwise, the UV rays may find their way through the fabric and onto your skin.

3. Home Colour RedesignYou may have formerly purchased shade sails because you wanted them to match the look of your home’s exterior colour.

But if you ever repaint your home with a new colour or redesign it in any way, then you might need to get new shade sails that match its new look.

4. Landscaping RedesignLandscaping and shade sails are actually part of the same category. For instance, if you hire a landscaper to build you an outdoor deck, patio or rest area in your backyard, then you might want shade sails installed over the area, too.

Any type of landscape redesign can cause a situation when new shade sails are warranted.

5. SafetyThere are two reasons why shade sails might become unsafe for someone and the need for home owners to factor these kinds of outdoor structures into their home and contents insurance policies. Either they’ve got holes that let UV rays shine through them, or they’re in danger of falling onto the ground.

Both scenarios can be avoided by replacing the shade sails before someone gets hurt. Check the bolts and connective parts for corrosion. This is a sign that the shade sails are no longer safe.

6. Buying or Selling a HomeWhen you purchase a new home, you might not like the existing shade sails that are installed. Perhaps they’re in bad condition or don’t match your particular tastes. This is reason enough to replace them with shade sails that better match your style.

And if you’re selling a home with shade sails, you also might want to replace them with new ones to attract more buyers.