Frequently Asked Questions

The key difference is retractability. A conventional shade sail is generally a permanent visual and physical element in the space. Öhrra can extend when shade is needed and retract away when you want open sky, winter sun or a cleaner architectural outlook.

The system combines tensioned architectural fabric with engineered supports, stainless-steel components and controlled extension and retraction.

Yes. Öhrra systems can be electrically extended and retracted, allowing the sail to move from open to closed without manually tensioning or removing the fabric.

Control configurations can include remote controls, wall switches and, depending on the selected specification, app-based or smart-home control.

Remote control is available for normal extension and retraction. App-based control and integration with broader home automation systems can also be specified as part of the control package.

If you have a particular smart-home platform or automation system, let us know during specification so compatibility can be confirmed for the selected configuration.

Wind sensing can be included as an automated safeguard. The system monitors conditions and can trigger retraction when the configured wind threshold is reached.

Wind protection should be treated as a safeguard rather than a substitute for sensible operation. The sail should still be retracted when severe storms or thunderstorms are forecast.

Wind guidance depends on the Öhrra system and its tensioning method.

Systems using traction weights, including Öhrra One and Öhrra Square configurations based on this system, should be retracted at approximately Beaufort Force 7 — around 50–61 km/h.

Spring-tensioned systems such as Zen should be retracted at approximately Beaufort Force 6 — around 39–50 km/h.

Always retract the shade when storms or thunderstorms are forecast, regardless of the nominal wind threshold.

The WeatherMax® 80 fabric is suitable for outdoor exposure and normal rainfall. The sail geometry uses curved battens to help direct water away from the fabric rather than allowing large areas of water to collect.

The sail should not, however, be treated as a permanent roof. Severe weather and storm conditions require appropriate retraction.

Öhrra uses WeatherMax® 80, a high-performance, solution-dyed polyester fabric developed for demanding outdoor applications.

It combines high strength with low weight, dimensional stability and resistance to UV exposure, moisture and outdoor wear.

WeatherMax® 80 is designed to remain dimensionally stable under outdoor use. Combined with the tensioning system and shaped battens, the fabric is held in a controlled form rather than hanging loosely like a conventional lightweight awning fabric.

Yes. Pool areas, spas, courtyards, terraces, outdoor dining areas and garden spaces are all suitable applications, subject to the structural and dimensional requirements of the particular site.

WeatherMax® 80 is also resistant to chlorine exposure, making it particularly well suited to poolside environments.

Yes. Öhrra is specified around the site rather than supplied as a one-size-fits-all awning.

Depending on the project, the shade can use dedicated masts, wall connections or a combination of structural mounting points. Sail dimensions, attachment geometry and component locations are developed around the space.

WeatherMax® 80 is available in a range of architectural colours including understated neutral tones and stronger colours.

Available colours can be confirmed during specification so the sail can be coordinated with the architecture, landscape and surrounding materials.

In most situations, normal rainfall removes loose dust and surface dirt. Local marks can generally be cleaned with water and a microfibre cloth.

Avoid leaving the sail rolled up while wet for extended periods. As a general rule it should not remain stored wet for longer than approximately one week, as persistent moisture can encourage mildew.

Periodic inspection of the sail, cables and moving components is also recommended.

Like any engineered outdoor system with moving parts, periodic inspection is recommended.

Traction cables should be visually inspected regularly, particularly after strong-wind events. A broader inspection, maintenance and cleaning cycle of approximately 2–5 years may be appropriate depending on the installation and environment.

Installation arrangements depend on the project and location. Öhrra can provide the required product information, engineering and installation guidance, while installation can be coordinated as part of the project where applicable.

For architect-led and builder-led projects, we can also work with the project team to coordinate structural requirements, fixing points, electrical requirements and final commissioning.