Shade net and insect net are often confused because both are UV-stabilized HDPE mesh sold in similar rolls — but they are built to do different jobs. Getting this wrong means buying the wrong product for your actual problem.
Shade Net
- Reduces light intensity and heat (30%-90% shading levels)
- Coarser weave with visible gaps
- Used for sun protection, water conservation and wind/hail buffering
- Common shading levels: 30%, 50%, 75%, 90%
Insect Net
- Excludes pests physically rather than filtering light
- Very fine mesh — allows around 95% of sunlight through
- Used against aphids, whitefly, thrips, fruit fly and leaf miners
- Reduces pesticide use rather than reducing sun exposure
Which One Do You Need?
If your main problem is heat stress, sun scorch or water loss, choose a shade net at the percentage matching your crop. If your main problem is insect damage and you want to cut chemical spraying, choose an insect net instead. Some greenhouse setups use both — insect net on the sides for ventilation with pest exclusion, shade net on top for heat control.
Still unsure which net fits your crop and location? Tell us what you are growing and we will recommend the right product.