Shade Cloth Explained: 30%, 40%, 50% or 70% — Which Do You Need?
A shade percentage helps compare cloth specifications; it does not promise a particular temperature reduction. Choose it around the plants, structure and conditions you have.
What does the percentage tell you?
The stated rating describes shading performance under the maker's test conditions. It is not a waterproof rating or, unless separately specified, a UV protection rating for people. Compare like-for-like specifications rather than treating every black mesh as equivalent.
For a greenhouse, start with conditions
The RHS recommends monitoring temperature and combining ventilation with the minimum shading needed. Outside shading can intercept sunlight before it enters the structure. As conditions cool, reduce shading when ventilation alone is enough. No single percentage is right for every crop or UK greenhouse.
A practical buying checklist
- Record the crop, greenhouse orientation and temperatures on a bright day.
- Measure the area to cover and check how the manufacturer measures the finished cloth.
- Check edge reinforcement, fixing points and the permitted installation method for both cloth and structure.
- Plan how you will reach vents and remove or adjust the cloth. Follow the supplied wind and storage guidance.
The winemana cloth listed at 40% shading and winemana cloth listed at 70% shading illustrate different ratings and sizes. Confirm the specification for your purpose; a higher percentage is not automatically better.
Browse Shade Cloth and Greenhouses & Plant Germination Equipment.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked 17 September 2026. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific product.
