Shade sails are unique products, designed to provide respite from the hot sun; they come in various cuts and sizes. Shade sails are single pieces of specialized fabric that can be spread over driveways, sports courts, yards or between trailers and buildings. Shade sails are reminiscent of the work of artist Christo, as they blanket and cover unique spaces. Hanging shade sails requires a bit of hardware and technique.
Measure and Find a Suitable Location
Things You’ll Need:
- Eyestraps
- Lag screws
- Epoxy
- 3/8-inch eyebolts
- Turnbuckles
- Shade sail(s)
Step 1
Determine where you want the shade sail to go. Take into account the fact that the shade sail will only provide sun protection when the sun is directly overhead; also, take the angles into consideration. Look for attachment points such as walls, overhangs or trees. If you need further attachment points, determine where to place a hole that can be used as an attachment point for the pole.
Step 2
Test each attachment point’s strength and integrity by pulling or trying to hang off the point. If they yield, they are not suitable. Measure out the areas where any new poles will go. Determine the angle of the hanging sail.
Step 3
Screw the lag screws into the attachment points in the wall at the desired height. If using poles or steel beams, use epoxy to glue the attachment swivels into place.
Step 4
Attach the sail to the swivels and bolts at the sail attachment circles (small metal circles on the corners of the shade sail). Use a ladder to get to the attachment points, if located higher than your reach.
Step 5
Tighten the attachment points with the turnbuckles on the shade sail’s attachments. Tighten until the fabric is taught, with little to no slack.
