Question 1

What is the recommended installation method for shade cloth?

Accepted Answer

Every environment is different, there is no universal answer!

However, here is a general installation method you can follow:
1. Importance of choosing fixing points:

• If you are installing a suspended shade sail with diagonal reinforcement ropes (Crozon, Quiberon & Noirmoutier models), check that the identified fixing points are in line with the diagonal reinforcement ropes, for a better aesthetic effect.

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/de7d58_7b3015b99c1048bea01744ee0db82035~mv2.png

• Identify suitable fixing points: walls, trees or posts.
• Make sure that these fixing points are strong enough to support the tension of the sail (note: the weight of the sail doubles when it has taken on rainwater).

2. Installing the fixing points:

• Install the necessary fixing brackets: hooks, eyebolts or wall fixings, at the identified locations.

• Make sure they are properly secured and fastened.

3. Attaching the fixing ropes:

• Adjust the length of the ropes according to your needs. We recommend a minimum length of 40 cm of fixing rope between the fixing point and your shade sail, necessary for the optimum adjustment and tension of your sail.

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/de7d58_3c37ab59aecf493aa47f3bee756ef6c0~mv2.png

• Tip: the knot made of coconut fiber does not come undone over time.
• Attach the ropes to the fixing points using appropriate knots. This is the time to review the bowline knot!

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/de7d58_bd38d8b3a916448ab94bf2258756333c~mv2.jpeg

4. Installation of the shade sail:

• Secure each corner of your shade sail using its fixing rope between the heart thimble and its fixing point using a bowline knot (or carabiner or D-ring).
• Be sure to distribute the tension evenly across the sail to avoid excessive deformation.
• Reminder: the fixing ropes must be in line with the reinforcement ropes of the shade sail.
5. Adjustment and settings of the shade sail:

• Once the shade sail is secured, adjust the tension to eliminate wrinkles and ensure a taut, aesthetically pleasing surface.
6. Verification:

• Check that the shade sail is securely fixed, stable and does not exhibit excessive movement.
• Ensure all attachment points and ropes are securely fastened.

Question 2

Pouvez-vous m'aider à installer ma voile chez moi?

Accepted Answer

Oui, 
Nous pouvons vous conseiller par téléphone à propos des diverses solutions d'accrochage de la voile. N'hésitez pas à poser vos questions via le formulaire, nous vous recontacterons très vite.

Pour les configurations plus complexes nécessitant une structure, nous pouvons vous préconiser un installateur de confiance de votre région qui pourra travailler sur une structure bois ou métal selon votre choix. Là encore, vous pouvez utiliser le formulaire en bas de page afin d’avancer ensemble sur ce sujet.

Question 3

What fixing options are available for the shade cloth?

Accepted Answer

Preliminary remarks:

• Never connect the shade sail directly to its fixing point but always use a fixing rope!
 • Prerequisites: the length of the fixing rope must be at least 40cm between its fixing point and the shade sail, necessary for the optimum adjustment and tension of your sail.

1. Wall mounting: If you have a solid wall, you can attach the fixing rope using hooks, or suitable wall brackets.

2. Wooden or metal posts : posts are one of the most common methods for fixing shade sails. They can also be used in addition to another support (wall, trees, etc.).
Depending on your aesthetic preferences and space constraints, you can use wooden or metal posts. Make sure to choose posts that are sturdy enough and secure them securely into the ground for optimum stability.

3. Tensioned cables: Another option is to use stainless steel sheathed cables to create a tensioned structure for the shade sail. The cables can be attached to anchor points such as posts and walls. We recommend 1 tensioner at each cable attachment point for optimal adjustment and tension of the cable.

This fixing system has the advantage of being able to slide your shade sail and position it differently depending on the orientation of the sun and the shade cast. It also allows it to be folded up if necessary.

4. Self-supporting structures (e.g. pergola) : You can opt for self-supporting structures that are specially designed for shade sails. These structures are usually made of metal or wood and offer a complete solution for installing the shade sail.

Question 4

What are the optimal shade sail dimensions for my outdoor space?

Accepted Answer

The dimensions of the shade sail for your outdoor space depend on the surface area of the space to be covered and your specific shading needs.

Here are some pointers to help you:

• Measure the area you want to cover with the shade sail.

• Consider the shape: A triangular shade sail is suitable for narrower spaces, while a rectangular shade sail will fit any type of space.

• Choose what best suits your outdoor space and feel free to mix and match!

• Identify the location of the fixing points. Depending on the size of the sail, you will need several fixing points. These fixing points must be strong and able to support the tension of the sail and its weight (doubled in case of rain). Depending on the configuration, you will have to adjust the length of the fixing ropes in order to best adjust your shade sail, leaving a minimum of 40cm.
It is also useful to consider the weather conditions in your area, such as prevailing wind direction and precipitation (snow), as this can influence the size and shape of the shade sail recommended.

Question 5

What is the recommended height for installing the shade sail to obtain optimal shade?

Accepted Answer

The height depends on the size of the sail, its shape or the desired shade effect. However, it is generally recommended to maintain a minimum height of 2.40m to 3 meters between the ground and the center of the sail.

Sufficient height will allow the shade sail to provide effective and comfortable shade by creating a larger shaded area. If the shade sail is installed too low, the shade may be more limited and less optimal.

However, it is important to note that the optimal height may vary depending on your specific needs, the configuration of your outdoor space, and the position of the sun at different times of the day!

Question 6

What accessories are needed to properly install the coconut fiber shade sail?

Accepted Answer

To properly install your coconut fiber shade sail, you will need the following accessories:

• Coconut fiber ropes or stainless steel sheathed cables to secure the shade sail to the attachment points. Make sure to use ropes or cables that are weather resistant and can support the tension of the sail. The stainless steel sheathed cable will allow you to “slide” and adjust your shade sail according to the hours of sun exposure.

• Anchor posts: You may need iron or wooden anchor posts to securely fasten the ropes or cables. These anchor posts must be long and strong enough to withstand the tension on the sail. They must be fixed deep into the ground and can – ideally – be embedded in a concrete block. Slings or tensioners can be used to properly adjust the shade sail and thus ensure optimum adjustment and tension.

• Mounting brackets: depending on the chosen location of your shade sail, you can use specific mounting brackets such as hooks, eyebolts or wall brackets.

Make sure that your mounting brackets are well suited to the material of your wall or structure (wood, stone, brick, rubble, concrete, etc.) and that they are strong enough to support the load.

Question 7

What precautions should be taken when installing the shade sail in windy conditions or exposed to strong winds?

Accepted Answer

Here are some precautions to take:

• Check the strength of the fixing points: Make sure that the fixing points, such as posts, walls or existing structures, are strong enough to withstand the tension exerted by the shade sail. Use sturdy fixings and make sure they are properly anchored.

• Use stainless steel sheathed cables or quality ropes: Use strong cables or ropes (at least 1cm in diameter for coconut fiber ropes) and high quality to attach the shade sail to the fixing points. Avoid using fragile materials that could break under tension or by strong winds.

• Check the tension regularly: Make sure the shade sail is properly tensioned and that there is no slack or excessive looseness in the weave. Proper tension will help the shade sail better withstand winds.

• Reduce the surface area of the shade sail: If you anticipate strong winds or frequent windy conditions, consider reducing the size of the shade sail or using several smaller sails instead of one large one. This will reduce the surface area exposed to the wind and decrease the forces exerted on the sail.

• Remove the sail in case of high winds or snowfall: If high winds or snowfall are forecast, it is recommended to completely remove the shade sail to avoid any risk of damage or tearing.

Question 8

What wooden posts should I use for shade sails and how do I install them?

Accepted Answer

Chestnut or robinia poles are particularly suitable for fixing a shade sail. There are even poles made of debarked and sanded robinia that give an extra charm to the installation, but their price is higher.

Robinia or chestnut are types of wood suitable for fixing a shade sail for several reasons:

Durability : They are rot, insect and weather resistant, meaning they can withstand outdoor conditions without rotting or deteriorating quickly.

Mechanical strength : they can support the weight of the shade sail as well as the forces exerted by the wind without bending or breaking easily.

Low maintenance : Robinia and chestnut generally require little maintenance once established. They do not degrade quickly and do not require special treatments to withstand the elements.

Aesthetic Appearance : These types of wood often have an attractive appearance, with interesting textures and grains that can add a natural and aesthetic touch to your installation.

It is important to plant the posts at least one meter into the ground. To make the 4 holes, we recommend using a soil cutter or auger, which will be much more efficient and profitable than the shovel and pickaxe.

Once the hole has been created, it is advisable to install a PVC tube of the appropriate diameter to “line” the hole.

The height of the sail is generally between 2.6 m and 3 m, and the posts are buried 1 m, we recommend 4 m posts, with a diameter of at least 15 cm.

To optimize the strength of your installation, you can tilt the posts approximately 10 degrees in the opposite direction to which you want to stretch your sail.

Sometimes you will need to re-tighten your sail. To make this easy, we recommend installing a ring (or a fancy pulley) at the top of the pole and a cleat at the bottom. This way, you can run the securing rope through the top ring, run the attachment rope along the pole, and finish securing it to the cleat, just like on a boat.

Question 9

Is the shade sail easy to install yourself or do you need to call a professional?

Accepted Answer

Installing a coconut fiber shade sail can be easily done by yourself. You need to know how to take measurements, drill into the chosen support, attach the fixing ropes and stretch the sail.

Here are some considerations to take into account:

• Space assessment: first, it is important to assess the space and identify the appropriate anchor points. You must also ensure that the supports (walls, posts, pergolas, etc.) are strong enough to support the tension of the sail.

• Accurate Measurements: Take accurate measurements of the space where you want to install your shade sail to determine the appropriate size and shape of your sail.

• Mounting and Fixing: Make sure to securely fasten the attachment points and tension your sail correctly to avoid excessive fluttering, stability issues and premature wear.

• Safety: Ensure you take all necessary precautions during installation, such as using appropriate personal protective equipment, handling tools safely and considering the risks associated with working at height.

• However, if you feel that the installation is not within your reach, do not hesitate to call us! You can also call on an experienced installer who can help you assess your space, choose the appropriate fixing points and install your shade sail safely and efficiently.

• Depending on your location, we may be able to recommend a pergola manufacturer and/or installer.

Question 10

Can the shade sail be installed permanently or does it need to be removed during periods of bad weather or winter?

Accepted Answer

The coconut fiber shade sail is designed to protect from the sun and heat.
To avoid any potential damage, we advise you to remove the coconut fiber shade sail during winter and bad weather periods, such as storms, strong winds or snow.

In winter, it will depend on your local climate. If you live in an area with harsh winters, it is best to remove the shade sail during this time.

If you live in an area with mild winters, you can possibly leave the sail up, but be sure to clean it properly and check its condition regularly.

Question 11

Does the shade sail require specific poles or supports for its installation?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your space configuration and preferences, the shade sail can be installed using different types of poles or supports, here are some commonly used options:

• Wooden posts: Wooden posts must be strong enough to support the tension of the sail and must be sufficiently sunk and fixed into the ground to ensure stability, and ideally sealed in a concrete block. Their width (or diameter if it is a round post) must be greater than 10cm.
 
 • Metal Posts: Metal posts, such as galvanized steel, are also commonly used for shade sail installation. They offer great strength and durability. Metal posts should be sunk and secured into the ground sufficiently to ensure stability and ideally set in a concrete foundation.

• Wall mounting: if you have solid and suitable walls, you can fix the shade sail fixing rope directly on them, using hooks, carabiners or wall brackets. We recommend a minimum length of 40cm of fixing rope necessary for the optimum adjustment and tension of your sail.

• You can opt for self-supporting structures (pergolas) specially designed for shade sails. These structures are generally made of wood or metal. They offer a complete solution for installing your shade sail.

• It is important to note that the choice of poles or brackets will depend on the size of the shade sail, the configuration of your space and the strength required to support the tension of the sail.

Question 12

How to create the proper tension when installing the shade sail to avoid excessive sagging?

Accepted Answer

Here are some tips:

• Identify solid anchor points: Make sure that the fixing points (walls, posts or other structures) are strong enough to support the tension of the sail. The posts must be firmly driven and fixed into the ground, ideally in a concrete block; and the walls must be able to support the tension exerted by the sail.

• Tension gradually: When installing, gradually tension the shade sail. Do not pull the sail suddenly or forcefully, as this can cause damage or excessive tension. As you tension the sail, regularly check its condition and ensure that it is evenly tensioned.

• If your sail has reinforcement ropes (Crozon, Quiberon & Noirmoutier model suspended sails), it is important that the attachment ropes are aligned with the reinforcement ropes in order to have the best aesthetic effect.

• Readjust regularly: Over time, the tension of the shade sail may loosen slightly due to climatic conditions (air temperature, humidity). It is therefore recommended to adjust the tension of the sail regularly to maintain optimal performance. Check the tension of the sail periodically and adjust it if necessary.

Installation of Presqu'île shade sails

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have another question?