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Hello
I've just bought a house and settlement is 21 October. I don't have an enclosed garage, only a carport out the front.
I'd like to know the easiest way for me to install shade cloth around the timber screens on the back patio as shown in the photos. I'll be storing some timber furniture, 2 mowers, and a spare washing machine in the corner/s of the patio. (I'd prefer not to have shade cloth around the middle part of the patio as I want sunlight to come through the house). I'm wondering if I would need tarp as well to keep the mowers dry (1 petrol, one lithium battery).
https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/t5/Outdoor/How-to-install-shade-cloth-for-a-balcony/td-p/70078
I found this post and like the idea of the butterfly clips on a line as this seems the most stable set up and I'd like it to look tidy. How would I affix the line to the timber screen or is this a job for a contractor? I'm reasonably handy if I know what I'm doing. And what kind of line should I use and any tools I need to buy? I'd very much appreciate any advice you could give.
These are real estate photos and all I have of the patio.
Thanks.
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @LorenClayton. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about installing shade cloth.
While the shade cloth will provide protection from the sun, you're right to consider a tarp for the mowers, as rain could still get through depending on the angle and intensity.
Installing the shade cloth on a line is a straightforward task. I’d recommend using screw eyes or hooks to secure the line to your timber posts or beams. For the line itself, something like galvanised wire or stainless steel cable would work well, as it’s strong and durable. A tensioner will help keep the line taut and secure the shade cloth neatly in place.
The butterfly clips you mentioned are a great idea to easily attach and remove the cloth as needed. Depending on how exposed your patio is to the wind, you might also consider fastening the shade cloth to the screen with shade cloth fixings at intervals for extra stability.
Let me know if you have any further questions or if you'd like recommendations on tools or materials.
Mitchell
