Cool Area Sun Shade Cloth with Grommets 518 FT - 95% UV Protection

In this review we look at the Cool Area Sun Shade Cloth 518 FT panel, a practical solution for homeowners and gardeners who want reliable sun protection without blocking airflow. The bottom line: this shade tarp delivers strong daytime sun blocking while staying breathable, making it a good pick for patios, pergolas, decks and poolside areas where cooler, filtered light is preferred. The review focuses on installation, fabric performance and everyday durability based on product details and customer experience.

Key Features

• 95% UV Protection: High-density polyethylene fabric blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays to reduce sun exposure in covered outdoor areas.
• Breathable Permeability: The woven material lets cool air pass through so shaded areas stay comfortable and do not trap water after light rain.
• Versatile Use: Sized and constructed for patios, pergolas, decks, gardens, pool areas and carports and also doubles as a privacy screen or windshield.
• Grommets Every 2 ft: Heavy-duty copper grommets installed at approximately 2 ft intervals make it straightforward to secure the panel with included ties or ropes.
• Tolerance Note: The fabric has slight elasticity and a manufacturing tolerance of about 2 in, useful to know when measuring for a tight fit.

Who It's For

The Cool Area shade cloth is aimed at homeowners and renters who need a durable, breathable sun screen for outdoor living spaces like patios, pergolas and pool decks. It suits DIY installers who prefer flexible mounting options and those who want a shade solution that still allows airflow and visibility.

It is less appropriate for shoppers seeking a fully waterproof tarp or an opaque privacy wall, since the product is designed to filter light and air rather than provide total blackout or rainproof coverage.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective sun blocking that still admits light, giving cooler shaded areas without complete darkness.
• Easy to install with strong copper grommets and included zip ties and ropes for multiple mounting methods.
• Durable construction that customers report holds up in rain and windy conditions, offering good long-term value.

Cons

• Not fully waterproof, so it will not keep an area dry in heavy rain.
• The material has a 2 in tolerance from elasticity, so precise custom fits may require planning or trimming.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Cool Area Sun Shade Cloth 518 FT is a solid, cost-effective option for anyone who wants significant UV reduction with breathable airflow. It is especially well suited for patios, pergolas and poolside shelters where cooling and light diffusion matter; buyers seeking waterproof protection should consider a different product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this shade cloth waterproof?
Answer. No, the fabric is breathable and designed to filter sun and allow airflow rather than being fully waterproof.

How are mounting points spaced?
Answer. Heavy-duty copper grommets are placed at roughly 2 ft intervals to give multiple secure points for ties or ropes.

Will it block all sunlight?
Answer. It blocks up to 95% of harmful UV rays and has an 85%-90% shading rate, so it significantly reduces sun while still admitting some light.