AWNINGS

There is a great deal of emphasis now on the dangers of over-exposure to the sun’s rays.  It’s wonderful to be able to enjoy the sunshine but too much at the wrong time of year is not a good idea and is also uncomfortable.  Shade is a necessity through the months of April to September and not just any shade!  UVA and UVB rays have been identified as being damaging to the skin and an excess can cause serious long term health problems. 

The sun’s rays also damage outdoor furniture so you may need to consider shade to protect this.  And don’t forget the effect of direct sunlight shining through windows onto expensive curtains and interior furnishings.

So it’s vital that shade is present on our patios and terraces - and not just any old shade!  Only the right type of material will offer the necessary protection against these damaging rays.  

The simplest and usually the least expensive artificial shade is the parasol.  These can also be positioned in the centre of a suitably designed table or with the cantilever variety positioned at the side.  There is also a parasol called the Butterfly which will cover a large rectangular table.

Another form of artificial shade is the well-known awning.  These have been around in manual forms for many years.  Most people here in the Algarve prefer the electric, remote-controlled version linked to a wind-sensor that will automatically retract the awning if the wind strength increases beyond certain parameters.  Just as with furniture, awnings are subjected to harsh climatic conditions and will deteriorate unless the materials used are of high quality.  An Awning tends to be one of the more expensive items of outdoor equipment so you need to make sure that it will last and remain attractive for years to come.  Zonda’s awnings come with a manufacturer’s 5 year guarantee.

Zonda supply all forms of artificial shade and our Sales Team will be pleased to advise you on which form will suit your particular requirements.