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Due to high shipping cost, it is advisable to find a source of posts locally.
Some general guidlines of what we find works in most cirmcumstances is discussed
below. This information is offered for budget purposes only. The type, size of post, and footing details are best obtained using a licensed engineer.

In general, use 4" schedule 40 steel pipe (galvanized)

or wooden temporary power poles (treated) that are 6" or larger. Steel posts can be powder coated or painted to help protect them and provide the desired color. Steel pipe is usually found at a steel supply or pipe supply vendor. (Not at Home Depot) If timber posts are used, then we generally recommend temporary power poles with a preservative added to the wood. Don't use dimensional lumber as it is not strong enough.

Plumb or slightly lean back the post and support it until the concrete has dried. If the posts are taller than 12' or more than one sail is attached to the same post then larger diameter posts are usually required and you should have the job engineered. Larger post should also be used with larger custom sails.

Install Eye nuts with threaded rod through the posts with the eyes pointed at the center
of the sail.

Depending on the height, posts are usually embedded in a concrete footing, 3 ft. to 6 ft. deep and 1 ft. to 1.5 ft. in diameter.

(Generally a third of the total length of the post is embedded.... So for example, a 10' high post should have about 5' in the ground). If you skimp on depth the post will get pulled over.

  1. Have the fixing points make a foot print at least 1 foot larger than sail. (2 foot larger is even better).
  2. Use Chain, Rope, or Cable for rough adjustment (pretty tight)
  3. Use Turnbuckle or Rope to add tension...(Very tight!) DO NOT USE A PULLEY OR RATCHETING SYSTEM AS THEY CAN TEND TO OVER TIGHTEN AND DAMAGE THE SHADE
  4. Make sure to pull evenly out from all corners.
  5. Don't skimp on tension... Loose sails look ugly and don't last as long


DISCLAIMER (Read carefully) The following installation suggestions are offered as a courtesy to mail order purchasers and to facilitate accurate ordering of the product. Shade Sails does not and cannot know the specific intentions of purchaser stress factors, variables for the area such as soil, wind condition and exposure, existing structure strength, local access codes, etc. The following is offered only as a highly generalized summary of installation methods used successfully by Shade Sails in the past. Shade Sails makes no extension of warranty by these general guidelines and disclaims any responsibility for the installation, design of installation, engineering requirements, code compliance or any other installation related matter. Shade Sails offers these services on an individual contract basis and purchaser has elected to purchase the ready-made sail only as a more economical alternative.