Best Shade Cloth for Walls To Balance Sun Protection vs. Airflow

[bobinoakland]

We have a 40'x60' shade built on an EMT frame. Both the roof and side walls have been solid tarps. In 2022 (last year we brought it) the heat was unbearable due to limited airflow inside. So we are buying mesh this year for the side walls, and staking the walls at a diagonal to the frame to open up the corners for airflow.

Given this design, what level of sun shading is ideal for the side walls to balance sun protection with airflow? I bought one 90% cloth to check it out, and it seems too tight a weave for good air flow. Based on other posts, I'm leaning towards 70% or 80% to get the right balance. Anyone have experience with different shade cloths to advise?

[Token]

I have found 70% aluminet to be the sweet spot.

IMO it is worth the extra cost just for the weight savings. Much lighter than big-box-store shade cloth.

That said, why do you enclose the whole thing? Privacy?

You only need two walls to get 95% of the floorspace shaded if you line the structure up correctly towards the sunrise and sunset points.

[some seeing eye]

It sounds like you need 2x 40' and 2x 60' less entrances and exits. You have existing experience based on sun direction and wind direction. What is the width you need? Aluminet generally comes in widths off the loom of 7, 13, 21'. I would look into polyester shade cloth. You probably want it grommented. I would spend Aluminet on your flat shade.

[bobinoakland]

You only need two walls to get 95% of the floorspace shaded if you line the structure up correctly towards the sunrise and sunset points.

What orientation do you recommend to only shade two sides? Privacy not an issue (not an orgie dome).

[some seeing eye]

Are you aware of the sun and wind compass directions? You can translate them to your placement.

Screenshot 2024-07-16 at 2.34.28 PM.png

[bobinoakland]

Thanks for the graphic!