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How to install shade cloth using house eaves?

Hobomobo
Just Starting Out

How to install shade cloth using house eaves?

Hi, Just planted out a garden on the eastern side of my house with plants that need part-shade. The area currently gets a bit too much direct sun for the plants - approx 5 hours of full sun in summer. I'm wanting to install a shade cloth (50-60% UV) using the eaves of the house to attach it. Having shade cloth between these eaves will cover most of the garden. I would like to keep it simple and also be able to take it down for the cooler months. Attached are pics of the eaves at either end of the area where i hope to attach the shade cloth...1 end is about 90cm wide, the other end is about 1.5m wide and the length is about 5m. Also conscious of wind ripping it out and damaging the eaves! :smile:

 

Any ideas on what to use to do this would be greatly appreciated. 

 

Thanks

IMG_1899 (1).jpgIMG_1900.jpg

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: Shade Cloth Installation

Hi @Hobomobo,

 

It's important to clarify that while the fascia and eaves of your house are important for aesthetics and weatherproofing, they are not structural elements and therefore shouldn’t be relied upon for direct attachment. Instead, you can connect your shade cloth through the eaves to the structural roofing timbers behind them. This ensures a secure and stable installation that can withstand wind and other elements without risking damage to your eaves. 

 

It's also important to consider that while the house will serve as one attachment point for your shade cloth, you will need a second point for a secure installation. Were you planning on attaching the other end to a fence? If so, keep in mind that fences are typically not designed to withstand the wind forces exerted on the shade cloth, especially during strong gusts. This could lead to potential damage to both the fence and the shade cloth itself.

 

To ensure a stable setup, you might want to explore alternative attachment points, such as a sturdy post or a dedicated structure that can handle the tension and wind load. This way, you can create a more reliable support system for your shade cloth while protecting your fence from unnecessary stress.

 

Given your situation, I recommend considering the installation of a retractable Windoware 3 x 2m Charcoal Easy Fit Awning. This type of awning allows you to easily extend and retract the shade cloth as needed, providing flexibility for seasonal changes. It also mounts to the wall of your house, ensuring that the structure is secure and reducing the risk of wind damage. This setup will give you the part-shade your plants need while also being easy to retract when you don't require it.

 

Make sure to position the awning to maximize shade coverage for your garden area while keeping it securely fastened to the structural elements of your home. 

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell

 

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