What is the difference between an acrylic canvas and a polyester canvas?
Summer is just around the corner, and you've decided to invest in a parasol to enjoy sunny days protected from the sun's rays. You'll find various parasol models on the market with polyester or acrylic canopies. We'll break down the characteristics of these two types of fabric to help you choose the one that's right for you.
Polyester canvas
The first type of canopy material available for purchase is polyester. This is the standard canopy on the market. It offers excellent UV protection . Polyester canopies are what we offer on the majority of our Belveo parasols. They will suit most people because they are perfect for home use . They will be suitable if you plan to use your parasol for a few weeks a year.
Although polyester fabric is water-repellent, it is not waterproof . It is therefore best to store it away or use a parasol cover to protect it.
The drawback of polyester fabrics is that they are dyed using a dyeing process and are therefore susceptible to UV damage over time . The risk is that the color of your parasol, if it is bright, will fade over years of use.
However, on Belveo parasols, the canopies are interchangeable , so it is possible to give your parasol a second life in two minutes.
Acrylic canvas
As for Sunbrella acrylic canvas, it has many advantages. This type of canvas is well suited to both residential and professional use (cafes, restaurants, hotels, campsites, communities, etc.).
The advantages of an acrylic canvas
Firstly , you won't have any fading problems with Sunbrella acrylic canvas because the pigment is impregnated directly into the core of the fiber. This will allow you to keep the colors intact and vibrant for many years.
Furthermore , acrylic fabric offers a higher level of UV protection than some traditional polyester fabrics. This level of protection is measured by the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). Acrylic fabrics have a UPF+ rating of 50 , which is the highest protection rating!
Finally, acrylic canvases are generally more durable . Indeed, acrylic is difficult to tear , particularly wind-resistant, and waterproof, thus impervious to the elements thanks to its water-repellent effect. Finally, Sunbrella acrylic fabric is resistant to mold and mildew.
To offer the best quality to its customers, Belveo now offers Sunbrella acrylic fabrics for two of its professional range models. As an added bonus, these acrylic fabrics are available in a new range of colors .
Ultimately, what should we choose?
Your final choice should therefore depend on how you intend to use your parasol. For everyday use, a polyester canopy will be perfectly adequate . However, if you plan on using it intensively, it's best to opt for a Sunbrella acrylic canopy . While this represents an investment, the quality will be exceptional, and you'll have a parasol that will undoubtedly withstand both sun and inclement weather.
