Shadeport Specialist
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Sean Young
SINCE 1995
WhatsApp (messages only): 060 673 4126
Office calls (office hours): 011 568 4436
Email: admin@shadeportspecialist.co.za
Carport & Shadeport Materials
WHAT GOES INTO A DURABLE INSTALLATION
Good materials and careful installation work together. We include detailed specifications with our quotations so you can understand the proposed shade netting, steel framework, tensioning cable, fasteners and paint system before work begins.
The specification depends on the structure and site. This page explains the materials and methods used for our shadeports; your quotation sets out the details for your project.
SHADE NETTING
We use Knittex Colourshade for our shade-net installations. Manufactured from high-density polyethylene with UV stabilisers, it is available in a range of colours for residential, commercial and industrial properties.
Knittex states that Colourshade carries a ten-year manufacturer’s warranty against UV degradation. The manufacturer’s terms apply; this warranty relates specifically to UV degradation of the fabric.
Colour, fabric weight and shade factor vary across the range. We help you select a suitable option for your project.
Knittex Colour Chart
STEEL FRAMEWORK AND FOUNDATIONS
Steel sizes, wall thicknesses, grades, connections and foundations must suit the structure and its site. We provide design-specific specifications rather than assuming that every installation needs the same components.
Our manufacturing and installation work includes forming, welding, fastening and setting the supporting steelwork. Cantilever structures include structural lattice bracing where required by the design.
When comparing quotations, check the proposed steel components, foundations and installation scope alongside the price.
SEAMS AND STITCHING
We use UV-stabilised sewing thread and regularly serviced industrial sewing machines to manufacture our shade-net seams and joins. Correct thread tension and consistent stitching are important parts of the finished net.
Our sewing process uses four threads to form a continuous double row of stitching. Existing nets can also be assessed for washing and restitching, provided the surrounding fabric remains suitable for repair.
PERIMETER CABLE AND TENSIONING
The perimeter cable runs inside the shade net’s outer seam and helps maintain its tension.
Our updated specification uses 5 mm galvanised steel-core wire rope (WMC/WSC). Cable construction, condition, fittings and correct tensioning all matter; diameter alone does not describe the complete specification.
During repairs, we assess both the cable and the surrounding netting. Rust, fraying or loss of tension need attention, and damaged fabric must be assessed before a replacement cable is fitted.
Fasteners
We use galvanised through-bolts, including M6 nuts and bolts for the framework connections described in our shadeport specification. Connection details depend on the structure and must follow its design requirements.
The suitability of a fixing depends on its application. The quotation should make the proposed connection method clear.
STEEL-FRAME PAINT REFURBISHMENT AND REPAINTING
Surface preparation is an important part of our painting process. For existing structures, we remove loose paint and surface rust by sanding, scraping, chipping and wire brushing, then clean the steelwork.
Prepared areas receive suitable treatment before repainting. We use Pro-Steel 2-in-1 solvent-based industrial gloss enamel, with two coats as part of our refurbishment process. Preparation, product compatibility and drying times follow the applicable product instructions.
