parasols

Being outdoor products, parasols are exposed to the elements of nature. Parasols were primarily developed to protect us from harmful effects of Ultra Violet radiation, but they also have a secondary function as a shelter from rain or other adverse weather conditions.

The ability for parasols to themselves withstand the effects of UV radiation is entirely dependent on the quality and type of fabric used and also the finishes of various materials used in the structure. As in most things there is always a quality and price trade off.

The ability of parasols to withstand various wind strengths however is entirely dependent on the materials used, the wall thickness of the structures and the design integrity of the products. Based on the market demand for parasols that can withstand strong winds and extreme conditions, Woodline has developed a marine range of products. Although these products can withstand very high wind conditions, it is always advisable to apply the following basic rules unless otherwise specified.

basic rules

• Do not leave the parasol unattended when open.
• Canopy must be opened to maximum tension to ensure optimum stability in all weather conditions.
• In case of strong winds close the parasol and use the tie downs to secure the ribs prior to covering with the parasol cover.
• When closing the parasol, make sure that the loose folds of the canvas are pulled outwards to avoid them being jammed between the ribs and stretchers. Once the folds have been pulled outwards they should be folded around the ribs before securing with the tie downs. If the folds are left jammed inside the structure it is possible that the movement of the closed structure (caused by wind) can result in the components rubbing against the canvas. This may cause unnecessary damage to the canvas.
• Ask for assistance when closing the parasol during strong winds.
• Do not leave the parasol closed if it is not completely dry.

canvas care

Different types of fabrics have different abilities to withstand Ultra Violet rays. The basic options are Polyester Fabrics and Acrylic Fabrics.

In Acrylic Fabrics the difference is that some acrylic yarns are yarn dyed, and others are solution dyed.

Yarn dyed indicates that the yarn itself is dyed after it has being manufactured. This results in the pigment only penetrating the surface of the thread.

Solution dyed acrylic on the other hand is formed through a process where the acrylic solution is pigmented before the yarn is extruded. This results in 100% pigmentation throughout the yarn.

Both yarn dyed and solution dyed fabrics have great weather resistance, but the solution dyed fabric is more resistant to fading caused the sun.

basic care

• Fabrics are soil and stain resistant and easy to clean.
• Spot wash by sponging with a solution of natural soap in lukewarm water.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air dry.
• For stubborn stains, use fabric spot remover. Follow the directions on the container. Rinse thoroughly with clean water & air dry.
• Acrylic fabrics do not promote mildew growth; however mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric.

parasol structures

• As the Parasols are used and stored in outdoor environments it is recommended that all structures should be cleaned from time to time with a wet rag using fresh water.

furniture