Our Process
From Analysis To Installation
In Weeks, Not Months
Every Apex project follows a precision-engineered process designed to eliminate surprises and deliver results.
Discovery & Consultation
Every Apex project begins with a conversation. We take the time to understand your property, your goals, and the specific challenges Arizona's sun creates for your business. This is a no-obligation consultation designed to determine if shade sails are the right solution for your space.
- Free initial consultation with a shade specialist
- On-site evaluation and needs assessment
- Project scope and budget alignment
- Realistic timeline discussion and planning
ShadeCast™ Analysis
Our proprietary ShadeCast™ software is what separates Apex from every other shade company. Using GPS-precise data for your exact location, we simulate shadow movement across your property throughout the entire year. The result is a data-driven plan that maximizes shade coverage exactly where and when you need it most.
- GPS-precise shadow mapping of your specific site
- Hour-by-hour shade visualization for any day of the year
- Optimized sail placement recommendations
- Custom report with visual shadow data and coverage metrics
Engineering & Design
This is where science meets craftsmanship. Our engineering team designs every structure using HyPar (Hyperbolic Parabola) tensioned membrane geometry, the gold standard for shade sail performance. Combined with Leica 3D Laser Mapping accurate to 1/16 of an inch, every element is engineered for precision, durability, and beauty.
- HyPar tensioned membrane design for superior performance
- Leica 3D Laser Mapping — 1/16” measurement accuracy
- Full structural engineering calculations
- 90 mph+ wind load rated designs
- City permitting handled entirely by our team
Fabrication
Every sail is fabricated to exact specifications using the highest-grade materials available in the industry. From the PTFE-coated architectural fabric that blocks 96% of UV rays to GORE Tenara thread that carries a lifetime warranty, we never cut corners on what protects your guests and your investment.
- PTFE-coated architectural fabric — 96% UV block
- GORE Tenara thread — lifetime warranty
- Marine-grade 316 stainless steel hardware
- Custom-cut to exact specifications from laser measurements
- Quality control inspection before shipping
Installation
Our professional installation teams work efficiently to minimize disruption to your business operations. Most commercial installations are completed in just one to three days. We finish with a thorough inspection and sign-off, activating your warranty and ensuring every detail meets Apex standards.
- Professional installation by trained specialists
- Minimal site disruption — your operations continue
- Typically 1–3 days for most commercial projects
- Final inspection and client sign-off
- 10-year fabric warranty activation
Technology
The Technology Behind
Every Installation
HyPar Engineering
Hyperbolic Parabola geometry is the structural foundation of every Apex shade sail. Unlike flat or simply curved sails, the HyPar form creates a double-curved surface that naturally resists flutter and pooling. This geometry distributes wind and rain loads evenly across the entire membrane, resulting in structures rated for 90 mph+ winds. The elegant saddle shape also creates superior visual appeal, lending an architectural quality that flat sails simply cannot match.
Leica 3D Laser Mapping
Precision begins with measurement. We use Leica 3D laser scanning technology to capture sub-millimeter accurate point clouds of every installation site. This data ensures that every post, cable, and fabric panel is fabricated to tolerances of 1/16 of an inch. The result is a perfect fit on installation day — no field adjustments, no compromises, and no surprises. This level of precision is typically reserved for aerospace and high-rise construction.
ShadeCast™ Software
ShadeCast™ is our proprietary shade analysis platform, developed specifically for commercial shade sail design. Using GPS coordinates and solar geometry, it generates precise shadow projections for any location, any time of day, any day of the year. The system identifies optimal sail positions, angles, and dimensions to deliver maximum shade coverage during peak hours. Every client receives a detailed visual report showing exactly where shade will fall before a single post is set.
Full Service
Every Project Includes
Free shade analysis
Complete engineering drawings
City permit handling
Custom fabrication
Professional installation
10-year fabric warranty
Lifetime thread warranty
Post-installation inspection
Ready To Start Your Project?
Get a free, no-obligation shade analysis for your property. Our team will show you exactly how Apex shade sails can transform your space.