WHY SHADE
SHADE STRUCTURES PROVIDE SAFETY, PROTECTION
People love shade. Whether over picnic areas, pickleball courts, playground areas, dog parks, parking lots or pool and spa amenities – people will seek out shaded respites to shield themselves from the dangers of the sun. Apollo Sunguard’s state-of-the-art outdoor shade structures – with their vibrant colors, cooler temperatures and shielding from harmful UV rays – provide an enticing opportunity for people to spend more time enjoying the outdoors. Here are some reasons why shade is so important in our lives.
Children
Even on a beautiful 74-degree day, playground equipment can get scorching hot under direct unlight without shade. And, in fewer than three seconds, children can be burned from playground equipment. In fact, the National Program for Playground Safety reports that playground equipment can reach temperatures up to 189 degree Fahrenheit.
Apollo Sunguard invented and patented a design that retrofits existing equipment with obstacle-free playground shade. Playground sunshades come in many different colors and styles to add functional beauty and flair. And if that’s not enough, custom options and designs can be created to perfect the look and function of the space.
Eye Damage
Prolonged exposure of UV rays to the eyes can also cause damage. The National Eye Institute reports that UV exposure can lead to pinguecula, ptergium, macular degeneration and cataracts. Cancers of the eyelid, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are also linked to the sun.
While sun glasses are strongly recommended, providing shade and blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays can also help prevent eye damage. Our Apollo Sunguard Shade Cloth has been tested by an independent lab to find that most colors block a minimum of 93 percent of UV rays while some block up to 96 percent of UV rays.
Heat Stroke and Dehydration
Shade provides protection against both heat stroke and dehydration. According to the Sun Safety Alliance, heat strokes occur when the body’s core temperature rises to about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be dangerous, leading to loss of consciousness or coma. Dehydration can also occur and is a risk of death.
Apollo Sunguard’s shade structures are constructed to mimic trees and allow air to flow through. This can cause 20-degree cooler temperatures beneath and can combat against overheating and dehydration from extreme heat. Our shade structures are perfect, not only for picnic areas, but also for basketball, tennis and pickleball courts – so people can catch a game outside no matter what time of day.
Pets
Domestic animals like dogs can’t cool themselves as efficiently as people can, making them more prone to heat-related illnesses. Their fur coats and ineffective thermoregulatory abilities cause them to rely on painting and the need to avoid direct sunlight to regulate their body temperature. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause severe health issues or can even be fatal.
Apollo Sunshades has experience shading large areas (room to run) and has worked with animal hospitals, pet shelters, doggy day cares and dog parks to keep dogs safe and cooler while they enjoy the outdoors.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer within the United States. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that largest risk factor for skin cancer is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays.
Our Apollo Sunguard Shade Cloth has been tested by an independent lab to find that most colors block a minimum of 93 percent of UV rays while some block up to 96 percent of UV rays. Those who have already experienced skin cancer are sensitive to the fact that sunscreen and longer shirts are a must. They will appreciate the additional shade over their favorite outdoor amenities.
Vehicle Deterioration
Studies have shown that extreme heat can take a toll on a vehicle parked in direct sunlight. UV rays can cause a vehicle’s paint to fade faster. Extreme heat can cause interior components like seats, steering wheels and dashboards to crack. UV rays can cause damage to the rubber of tires by accelerating the process of dry rot.
Meanwhile, direct sunlight can cause battery fluids to evaporate. Apollo Sunguard shade structures block up to 96 percent of UV rays, effectively extending the life of your vehicle’s integrity. Apollo Sunguard’s Cantilevers offer exceptional UV protection and can drop the temperature of a parking spot by 20 degrees. There’s little doubt that people would rather choose to park under shade than park in the direct sun.
WARRANTY
We warranty all steel framework for 20 years and all fabric covers for 15 years.
ULTRAVIOLET
PROTECTION
Our fabric is tested by an independent laboratory and a large selection of colors meet a minimum of 93% UV Block.
FABRIC
Apollo Sunguard Shade Cloth® is known for its great strength, vibrant colors and durability.
QUICK RELEASE
SYSTEM
Our innovative shade structures are uniquely designed with a quick release system to remove the fabric covers.
