
How deep should a shade sail pole be?
Footing depth should be a minimum of 36 inches deep and 30inches square. For example, if your post height is higher than 8 feet, we recommend a hole depth 40% of the height above ground. How do you make a shade sail pole? How do you install shade sail posts? Lay a 4 inch (100mm) depth of 3/4 inch diameter gravel at the base of the post.
What size post do I need for a sail pole?
Post lengths should be taken into account with the proposed height of the sail plus the depth of your footings. Footing depth should be a minimum of 36 inches deep and 30inches square. For example, if your post height is higher than 8 feet, we recommend a hole depth 40% of the height above ground. How do you make a shade sail pole?
Can you use 4×4 posts for a shade sail?
If your posts will actually be 12′ above ground, and they’re not supported with any sort of diagonal bracing, you will want 6x6s (or at least 4x6s). 4x4s will flex and bounce substantially at that height. How deep do posts need to be for a shade sail?
What size footings do I need for a shade sail?
Even without wind and rain, the weight of the shade sail will cause the erection to fall in time. In most cases, it’s wise to have footings no less than 50” deep and 12” round. Some bases need to be as deep as 80” deep and 24” round.

How thick should a shade sail post be?
It is recommended to use a round steel post with a minimum diameter of 90mm, or a 90x90mm square steel post. Post wall thickness should be a minimum of 3.5mm.
How much fall should a shade sail have?
We suggest a high amount of slope, a minimum of 30% between points. A large slope looks great, giving the appearance of multiple sails in some cases and also allows for water run-off. For example, for a 20ft sail, you could go 5-4ft difference between posts.
Is a 4x4 enough for a shade sail?
If your posts will actually be 12' above ground, and they're not supported with any sort of diagonal bracing, you will want 6x6s (or at least 4x6s). 4x4s will flex and bounce substantially at that height.
How do you set a shade sail post?
1:522:56How to Erect a Sun Shade - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou go make sure your posts don't lean too far away from the ends of the turnbuckles. As this willMoreYou go make sure your posts don't lean too far away from the ends of the turnbuckles. As this will affect the tension of the sail.
Why are shade sail posts angled?
All shade sails should have a certain amount of twist or shape in their design. This is done by designing the sail to have alternate high and low corners. Known as a 'Hypar', this shape increases tension in the shade, reduces flapping in the wind, and improves overall longevity of the sail. Need more design options?
Should a shade sail move in the wind?
Shade sails form a tensioned structure and they should not flap in the wind. Sails generally are designed to withstand up to 85 mph winds. So, under normal weather conditions, you need not worry about it. However, if there is a hurricane or cyclone or heavy rain, sails should be taken down.
How do you keep shade sails from sagging?
Simply pull the wire rope on each corner until the shade sail retightens and all sagging is removed. Another method to fix the issue is through height variation, where the sails are installed at alternating high and low anchor points. This creates something called a hyperbolic parabola.
Can you attach a shade sail to a fence post?
Can you attach a sail shade to a fence? Yes, we've seen sail shades successfully attached to both metal and wood fences, but only to the posts. The sail shade can create supplementary force on the fence post so you will want to reinforce it with additional concrete.
How long do shade sails last?
about eight to 10 yearsA shade sail will probably last about eight to 10 years. However, that can increase or decrease dramatically depending on the weather in your area. If the shade is often subject to high winds, it might deteriorate faster.
Do shade sails need to be angled?
Ideally, they should be installed at an angle of 10 degrees for steel and 20 degrees for timber posts. The angle should be away from the shade sail, so account for the angle and the length of the turnbuckles when you dig your post holes.
What side of a sun shade faces out?
For the best results, the silver side of the sun shade should face out. The silver side is the reflective surface that will reflect the sun's rays away from the car. If you are using a windshield sun shade, make sure that the silver side is facing towards the sun so that it can reflect as much light as possible.
What shape shade sail is best?
Shade sails come in a variety of shapes and styles but are typically sold in three shapes: triangle, square, and rectangle. Of the three, the triangular sail is the most popular. This is because square sun shade sails tend to bow in the middle, due to a buildup of water.
How do you get sag out of a shade sail?
How to Fix a Sagging Shade Sail. If your shade sail starts to sag, you can re-tighten it and bring it taught. One way to do this is by using a wire rope that runs through a pocket sewn in the perimeter of your sail. Simply pull the wire rope on each corner until the shade sail retightens and all sagging is removed.
What shape shade sail is best?
Shade sails come in a variety of shapes and styles but are typically sold in three shapes: triangle, square, and rectangle. Of the three, the triangular sail is the most popular. This is because square sun shade sails tend to bow in the middle, due to a buildup of water.
Do shade sails stretch over time?
Sails can stretch and loosen up over time, but by getting in early you can keep yours firm and fresh. Check out our article on installing shade sails here for more information on getting started.
Can you leave shade sails up all year?
Yes, shade sails are not rated for snow loading and must come down in snow load areas. Failure to take your shade sails down in snowy conditions can severely damage your shade sail and posts/ attachment points. We strongly recommend taking your sails down before the first snowfall.
Sail Structure Designs and Layout
Shade Sails can be flown in a variety of ways: 1. Horizontally (flat), where all corners are at the same height; 2. Vertically, like a privacy fenc...
Building Codes For Shade Sails
Prior to installation, check with local authorities for any relevant building codes or permits that may be required, especially if you live in a ne...
Mounting Hardware For Sun Sails
There is an extensive range of fixing accessories available to help you secure your shade sails. These accessories are readily available from your...
Attaching Sun Sail to Fascia
If you intend to fix your shade sails to a fascia, the use of a reinforced fascia support is strongly recommended. The fascia support is used to co...
Post Supports For Mounting Sails
If additional posts are required, we recommend the use of a minimum of 4 inch, schedule 40 steel pipe or a minimum of 6x6 inch wood treated for out...
Shade Sail Care & Cleaning
Most sun sails made of HDPE material (like Commercial 95, Coolaroo, Shade Logic or PolyFab materials) can be routinely cleaned with a hose spray on...