Two options
next to each other
Where more than one solution fits, we place them next to each other - with the test values from the data sheets instead of marketing words. Nine comparisons, sorted by fabric, system and covering material.
Three questions, three routes
Depending on what you are deciding, a different comparison helps. One click jumps to the matching list.
Which fabric?
Four head-to-head pages on the qualities we work with - lightfastness, abrasion resistance and dyeing method.
Four fabric comparisons
Which system?
Awning, canopy, pergola, umbrella or sail - four comparisons on effort, cost and weather resistance.
Four system comparisons
Which covering?
Wall cushions can be covered in three very different materials. Looks, care and durability set them apart.
To the material comparisonOutdoor fabrics head to head
All four pages list the same test values in the same order, so the figures really can be compared: lightfastness to ISO 105-B02, abrasion resistance to ISO 12947, weight per square metre and dyeing method.
The four outdoor fabrics next to each other
The short version of all four fabric comparisons in one table. Every figure comes from the manufacturer data sheets; the full reading sits on the linked page. Agora values refer to the standard Liso and Panama variants.
| Property | Agora | Sunbrella Natte | Dralon | Olefin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fibre | 100% acrylic, solution-dyed | 100% acrylic, solution-dyed | 100% acrylic, piece-dyed | 100% polypropylene |
| Weight | 260-280 g/m2 | 290 g/m2 | 220 g/m2 | 200-260 g/m2 |
| Roll width | 137 / 160 / 320 cm | 140 cm | 160 and 320 cm | 150 cm |
| Lightfastness (ISO 105-B02) | 7-8/8 | 8/8 indoor | 4-6/8 depending on shade | over 7 |
| Flame retardancy ex works | 4 standards | 4 standards | on request | 4 standards |
| Colour warranty | 5 years | 5 years | none documented | none documented |
| Price level | premium | premium | entry | value functional fabric |
Shading systems
Retractable or fixed, above the patio or beneath a glass roof: these four pages compare the designs by installation effort, weather resistance and running cost.
Covering material
On a wall cushion the covering decides looks, cleaning effort and service life. Three materials that differ on all three counts.
What matters when comparing
Four points where comparisons on the web regularly fall apart - and which we therefore carry through consistently on our pages.
Only equal standards compare
A Martindale figure to ISO 12947-2 cannot be set against one to part 3. Where the standard is missing, the number says nothing.
The dyeing method explains the price
Solution-dyed cloth costs more than piece-dyed because the pigment sits inside the fibre rather than on it. That is exactly what drives lightfastness.
The location decides too
A fabric that lies out through summer and comes in for winter needs different figures from one that hangs on a sail all year.
Figures from data sheets, not from advertising
Every value on our comparison pages carries its source. Where a manufacturer publishes no value, we write that down instead of guessing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still undecided?
Our customer service knows both sides of every comparison from our own workshop. Or order fabric samples first and decide with the material in your hand.