subject: Breakthrough In Outdoor Fabric Technology [print this page] It has only been in recent years that the variety of outdoor fabric made big changes. Historically, these fabrics were great for holding up to weather and elements but left much to be desired in both their texture, feel and available color. The manufacturers of Sunbrella changed everything with outdoor fabric that look good and feel good.
The demand for higher quality fabrics for garden and patio furniture took years to see results. Traditional colors were limited to solids or stripes with very little imagination. Today, the fabrics made by Sunbrella are varied and come in patterns and colors that are even finding their way indoors as well.
The earlier outdoor fabrics were usually of all nylon or another synthetic, and were loosely woven to permit wetness to dry easily. The fabrics now available have kevlar or teflon woven directly into them so even Scotch guarding is not necessary. This new weaving and material composition permits a texture and feel that is much more akin to interior fabrics.
With Sunbrella came a number of changes. No longer are bright colors or patterning affected by the effects of sun. There's no fading. The old nylon fabrics couldn't even boast staying in true color after a summer of sun. The new fabrics are woven with a permanent sunscreen right into the fiber.
Another attribute is Sunbrellas ability to withstand staining. Whether it is wine or chocolate, there's little that can't be remedied with a little soap water and a gentle scrub. This makes it a perfect design solution for those with pets or children, who often make messes even when they don't mean to.
These new changes in the way outdoor fabrics are manufactured are creating a variety of uses for them. From indoor drapery to standard furniture upholstery, Sunbrella is rapidly becoming a go to source for decorators. Its durability is unsurpassed as are the variations in weaves and colors. It is not unusual to see it used for high-end upholstery either indoors or out.
For interior designers or the homeowner, who wants to link their indoor and outdoor areas, it has been made all the easier with such refined fabrics. Because the fabric can be used anywhere, the line of interior and exterior can now easily become a blur. There's no longer such a distinction in designing specifically for these two types of living. The fabric becomes a great unifier of space and design, and follows today's trend of extending the living area to the outdoors.
Sunbrella continues to introduce new fabrics on a consistent basis. They also continue to introduce new facets of durability too. This means that larger and larger ranges can be found in both fabric by the yard and furniture that is non-custom. For the consumer, it means more choices with longer warranties too.
There are variations in Sunbrella fabrics. The differences in added repellency is notable but is easily detected through the way the fabrics are numbered. It pays to do some research about the different levels of protection when shopping for the best option for a home project. It is also wise to beware of seconds from mills or cut-rate versions. The fabrics may not contain everything needed to make it a lasting addition to your outdoor area.
