file_20

When the summer sun begins to take its toll, shade sails offer a solution that is aesthetically pleasing, highly functional and completely practical. You can place one or more shade sails just about anywhere there are spots to anchor it, and can use them for providing shelter in your residential back yard or at your commercial facility. If you recently made or ordered one of these great products and plan on installing it as soon as the weather breaks, here are a few tips to help you get it right the first time.

Determine your design and layout. One of the coolest things about shade sails is their versatility. You can hang them a variety of ways. The typical designs are either horizontally, or flat, with all corners at the same height; vertically, or up and down, which makes the sail like a privacy fence; or at an angle, with the corners at differing heights. Your decision will ultimately be based on where you plan to hang your shade sail, the look you’re after, as well as what you plan to use it for.

Choose your location. Figuring out where to install your shade sail involves several factors. First, you must consider the sail’s size. Where will it fit properly? Next, you need to find a location that has structures that can sufficiently serve as anchor points. You may also want to consider the direction of the sun to ensure that your placement is most effective. As a warning, you should never install a shade sail near a source of heat or flame, such as over a grill.

Gather appropriate hardware. If you’ve made your own shade sail, you’ll need to hit the hardware store and purchase the appropriate materials to install it properly. You’ll need anchors to affix to the nearby structures, links to attach the sail to the anchors and extensions (if necessary). If you’ve purchased your shade sail ready-made, it should come with the proper hardware for quick and easy installation.

Attach the sail to the chosen structures. Using all the hardware you’ve gathered, install the anchors, and then attach the sail to those anchors using the links and extensions. Be sure that there is an appropriate amount of tension on the sail. When installed properly, there should be few to no wrinkles in the fabric. If the sail is not properly pulled taut, not only will it not be as useful, but it could also be more susceptible to damage.

Once your shade sail has been properly installed, you can begin enjoying the benefits it provides, such as relief from the hot sun and shelter from the wind and other elements. Don’t forget to clean your sail regularly using warm water and a mild detergent (such as dishwashing soap). This will help to extend its life and allow you to get more use out of your investment for years to come.

Need help with your installation or choosing a shade sail set up that works for your needs? Give us a call at 800-504-6478. And, as always….stay cool, my friends!