How to fix shade sail anchors?

[ken8]

Hi, 

I need to fox my shade sail, it has 3 anchor points and one of them (attached to a wooden post that has been slowly falling on its side). This has caused the sail to lose tension and just being loose. I've noticed that i have a metal post with an anchor point at the top end that i could swith to but was wondering if a tie down would be steong enough, like the one below.

 

Thanks in advance.

Kenny

 

[EricL]

Hello @ken8 

Just a friendly reminder that shade sails produce a tremendous amount of pulling power when the wind hits its surface at the correct angle. Your metal post might not be designed with this force in mind and might get pulled out of the ground as well. I suggest doing a bit of investigation first before you commit the post as the new anchor point for your shade sail. My best advice is to refer to a professional shade sail installer to repair the original wooden post. 

However, in regards to your question, I suggest using Coolaroo Shade Sail Strap Tensioner or a combination of heavy-duty rope and Taskmaster 5mm Stainless Steel Hook and Eye Turnbuckle.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ken8]

Hi EricL, 

Thanks for the advice and suggestions. I couldn't put up any pictures last night. I did take some photos this morning and will upload them, hoping it will give you a better understanding. Looking at the pictures would you stick to your suggestions?

 

 

  

[JacobZ]

Hi @ken8,

Similar to @EricL, I am always cautious when it comes to shade sails, as the forces they exert on posts and structures can be quite a bit more than you expect.

The metal post, being on top of a retaining wall, poses issues to other structures and a shared fenceline, so I would not risk using it.

I'd be looking to replace the existing post as it appears to have been installed intentionally to support the shade sail and is separate from other structures.

With the newly installed timber post, you could use the products @EricL mentioned to tension the shade sail.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob