Shade nets are essential in the agricultural, horticultural, construction, and commercial sectors in the UAE and other Gulf regions. Whether used to protect crops from harsh sunlight, cover greenhouses, or shield construction materials from environmental damage, shade nets are designed to withstand tough outdoor conditions.
However, improper storage and handling can drastically reduce their lifespan, leading to frequent replacements, higher costs, and compromised performance. If you’ve invested in high-quality commercial shade nets, maintaining them the right way is key to getting the best return on your investment.
In this blog, we share practical do’s and don’ts to help you store and handle your shade nets correctly, ensuring durability, ease of reuse, and long-term efficiency.
Understanding Shade Net Material
Before we dive into the best practices, it’s important to understand what shade nets are made of. Most are manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), treated with UV stabilizers to resist sun damage. They come in various shade percentages (30% to 90%) and colors depending on their application.
While HDPE is tough, it can degrade when exposed to harsh elements or improper storage conditions — especially under prolonged sun exposure, mechanical damage, or moisture accumulation.
Do’s for Storing Shade Nets
- Clean Before Storage
Before storing your shade net, always clean it thoroughly. Dust, plant residue, chemicals, or bird droppings left on the net can cause discoloration and degrade the fabric over time.
- Use a soft brush or hose with clean water.
- Avoid using harsh detergents.
- Let it dry completely before folding.
- Fold Neatly to Prevent Wrinkles and Tears
Once dry, fold the net properly to avoid creases or kinks. This helps prevent fabric stress that can lead to small tears or weakened areas when reused.
- Start from one end and fold uniformly.
- Roll or fold loosely to reduce pressure on the mesh.
- Store in a Cool, Dry, and Shaded Area
Heat and direct sunlight can damage the UV-protective coating over time, even when the net is not in use. To maximize longevity:
- Store shade nets indoors or in shaded sheds.
- Avoid places with high humidity or water leakage.
- Elevate the storage area slightly to prevent water contact from below.
- Use Proper Packaging
If your shade net came in protective wrapping, retain and reuse it for storage. This guards the fabric against insects, rodents, and mechanical damage.
Alternatively, wrap the net in:
- Breathable fabric bags
- Non-stick plastic or tarp covers
- Labeled containers to avoid confusion
- Label Different Sizes or Types
If you manage multiple shade nets of different sizes or percentages (e.g., 50%, 70%, 90%), label them properly during storage. This saves time and prevents the need to unpack everything to find the right one.
Don’ts for Handling Shade Nets
- Don’t Drag Nets Over Rough Surfaces
Dragging the net across sharp surfaces like concrete, metal edges, or rocks can cause fraying and holes. Always carry or roll the net when moving it from one place to another.
Use two people for large nets to prevent uneven pressure or tearing.
- Don’t Store While Wet
This is one of the most common mistakes. Storing a shade net while it’s still damp can lead to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Odors and stains
- Premature fabric breakdown
Always air-dry completely before storing.
- Don’t Use Sharp Hooks or Nails for Hanging
While hanging or installing, avoid using metal hooks or nails that can pierce or rip the fabric. Use:
- Plastic cable ties
- Smooth clamps
- UV-resistant ropes or ties
These maintain the net’s structure without causing damage during setup or takedown.
- Don’t Expose Stored Nets to Sunlight
Even when not in use, UV rays can penetrate and weaken the protective layer. Avoid leaving stored nets in places like vehicle dashboards, rooftops, or open yards.
Why Al Miqat Hardware?
Looking for durable, UV-stabilized shade nets that are easy to handle and built for the Gulf’s extreme climate?
Al Miqat Hardware is your trusted supplier of premium commercial shade nets in the UAE.
We offer:
- A wide range of shade percentages (30% to 90%)
- Color options suitable for agriculture, construction, and retail
- Customized roll sizes and accessories for easy installation
- Expert guidance on handling and storage best practices
Contact AL Miqat Hardware today to get the right shade net solution for your project.
Conclusion
Shade nets are a practical and long-term solution for protecting crops, equipment, and outdoor spaces in the UAE’s harsh environment. But to get the most value from your investment, proper storage and careful handling are essential.
By following the do’s — such as cleaning, folding, and storing in cool, dry places — and avoiding the don’ts — like dragging or storing wet — you can extend the life of your shade nets by years. This not only saves money but ensures consistent protection across all seasons.
Treat your shade nets with care, and they’ll continue to serve you reliably, whether you’re shielding crops or creating comfort in open-air environments.