Smart Shade Starts with the Right Fabric

Every outdoor space is unique. From sunny patios to leafy gardens, one thing stays the same: the need for reliable, breathable, and long-lasting protection from the sun. Choosing the right fabric makes the difference between shade that looks good for a season and shade that performs for years.

Coolaroo has been perfecting outdoor fabrics for over 70 years, combining Australian sun expertise with modern, sustainable design. Our fabrics are engineered to block up to 95% of harmful UV rays while staying cooler to the touch, free from harmful chemicals, and made to last season after season.

Why Fabric Choice Matters

Many shade products may look similar, but not all are made equal. Cheaper, chemically treated materials can trap heat, fade quickly, or deteriorate under the sun. Coolaroo fabrics are engineered differently.

Our fabrics are woven from high-quality HDPE (high-density polyethylene) fibers, a naturally UV-resistant, non-toxic material that’s lead-free, recyclable, and built for longevity. The open-knit construction of many Coolaroo fabrics promotes airflow while blocking up to 95% of harmful UV rays, keeping shaded spaces noticeably cooler without trapping heat.

HDPE’s performance extends beyond comfort. The fibers naturally resist mold, mildew, and rot, staying cleaner and lasting longer. Because color pigments are infused directly into the yarn, not applied as a surface coating, the colors remain rich and fade-resistant even under harsh sunlight. This means less waste and fewer replacements over time.

For spaces exposed to extreme heat, HeatShield fabric technology takes comfort even further. By reflecting and dispersing heat more efficiently, HeatShield fabrics feel up to 15°F cooler to the touch compared to standard fabrics, offering extra comfort in high-sun environments.

While PVC fabrics are still used for projects that need water resistance or structural rigidity, their heavier, non-breathable nature can trap heat. HDPE, on the other hand, offers the best balance of protection, breathability, and durability creating shade that feels cooler, cleaner, and designed for real outdoor living.

Understanding UV Block and Why It Matters

UV block is one of the most important details when selecting shade fabric. It indicates how much of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation (the rays that cause skin damage, aging, or potentially cancer) is blocked from passing through the material.

A higher UV block percentage means greater protection, but more isn’t always better. Some spaces, such as gardens, benefit from gentle, filtered light rather than complete coverage.

All Coolaroo fabrics are tested for their UV-blocking performance, ranging from 30% to 95%, so you can choose the right level of protection for your space. Our commitment to sun safety is backed by the same science that informs the Cancer Council’s UV protection standards helping families enjoy the outdoors more safely.

When selecting a fabric, look for options that:

• Specify a UV block percentage rather than simply “sun protection.”
• Maintain performance without chemical coatings.
• Offer balanced light and airflow for a cooler, more comfortable experience.

UV Cheat Sheet

Fabric Construction

Coolaroo fabrics are available in both knitted and woven constructions:

• Knitted fabrics are breathable and flexible, ideal where shade needs to move with the environment.
• Woven fabrics offer a structured, architectural appearance, perfect for roller shades or long-term installations.

Choosing The Right Shade For Your Needs

Garden Cover Fabric

Gentle Shade for Growing Spaces

• UV Block: Up to 30–50%
• Material: Knitted HDPE

Coolaroo Garden Cover fabrics protect plants through every stage of growth.

• 30% UV block: Filters sunlight for seedlings and herbs that need gentle exposure.
• 50% UV block: Shields heat-sensitive plants and reduces water loss in hot conditions.

Durable and breathable, these fabrics regulate temperature naturally, protecting against heat stress and pests without harsh chemicals.

Ideal for: Gardens, greenhouses, hoop houses, and nurseries.

[Shop Garden Fabrics]

Screening & Privacy Fabric

Chosen for Style, Shade, and Separation

• UV Block: Up to 70%
• Material: Knitted HDPE

A versatile choice that blends privacy and comfort with modern design. The open-knit structure fosters airflow while offering shade and partial visibility.

Perfect for patios, balconies, or fence lines, this fabric is fade-resistant, mold-protected, and easy to clean with mild soap and water.

Ideal for: Privacy screens, pool areas, carports, and play spaces.

[Shop Screening & Privacy Fabrics]

Coolaroo Fabric Reference Guide

Choosing the right Coolaroo fabric is about balancing comfort, style, and performance. Whether you’re growing a garden, creating privacy, or designing a shaded retreat, each Coolaroo fabric is engineered with purpose–to help you live outdoors, comfortably and confidently, season after season.

Explore Coolaroo fabrics to find the right solution for your space.