Measuring your shade sail: get it right from the start
Measuring a shade sail may seem simple, and in many ways it is, but a perfect result depends on getting a few key details right. Think of the correct tension, the ideal fixing point positions, and the right slope for proper water drainage.
Get these basics right, and your shade sail will not only look sleek and stylish, but will also perform better and last longer. A well-measured sail creates a clean finish, improves stability, and helps prevent issues caused by wind or rain.
The good news? It's easier than you think. We'll guide you step by step, so you can measure with confidence and create the perfect setup for your outdoor space.
Determining the right size
Choosing the right size starts with one key decision: do you go for a standard shade sail or a custom-made solution? Each option requires a different approach — but both lead to a perfect fit when done right.
The fixing points are positioned to match the dimensions of the shade sail.
The sail is designed to perfectly fit your existing or planned fixing points.
In other words, you either start from the product or from the space — the result is a shade solution that fits seamlessly, both visually and technically.
Minimum distance
The minimum distance between the shade sail and the pole is 35 centimeters. This ensures you have enough space to properly tension the sail and achieve a clean, tight finish.
Standard size vs custom-made
Standard size: add 35 centimeters on each side to create sufficient distance between the corner of the shade sail and the fixing point. This means you need a total of 70 centimeters of extra clearance.
Custom-made shade sail: subtract 35 centimeters from the measured distance to ensure enough space for properly tensioning the sail.
Maximum distance
The maximum distance between the shade sail and the fixing point is 100 centimeters. The further the corner is from the anchor point, the more slack will occur. If you want a tight, clean finish, make sure the corners are positioned as close as possible to the fixing points.
Standard vs custom-made
To determine the maximum distance of the anchoring points:
Standard size: add up to 100 cm per corner in the direction of each fixing point. This means the total extra space between two opposite anchoring points can be up to 200 cm.
Custom-made shade sail: subtract up to 200 cm from the total distance between two fixing points to ensure proper tension of the sail.
Determining the right slope
A shade sail is designed to provide comfortable shade — but to truly perform at its best, it also needs to handle rain and wind with ease. That's why the right slope is essential. With the correct angle, water can drain properly, wind load is reduced, and your shade sail stays tighter, cleaner, and more durable over time.
A well-installed shade sail not only looks better, it lasts longer. Proper tension prevents the fabric from flapping in the wind and ensures a sleek, high-end finish in your outdoor space.
The good news? Achieving the right slope is simple. With a few smart adjustments, you can significantly improve both performance and longevity.
Below, we show you the options and possibilities.
Flat shade sail
A flat-installed shade sail is possible, but only under ideal weather conditions. Think of sunny days with little to no wind and no chance of rain.
While this setup creates a clean and modern look, it comes with limitations. Without any slope, rainwater cannot drain properly, which can lead to water pooling and unnecessary stress on the fabric and fixing points.
For this reason, a flat installation is only recommended for temporary setups or in consistently dry climates. If you want long-term performance and durability, a sloped installation is always the better choice.
Water pooling risk
When installed in a flat position, there is a risk of water pooling during rainfall. Even breathable fabrics do not allow water to pass through quickly, and waterproof fabrics do not let water through at all.
As a result, water pockets can form, putting excessive stress on the fabric and potentially causing the sail to tear. This must be avoided at all times.
The correct slope
A shade sail should ideally be installed with a slope of 25 centimeters per running meter, from the highest point to the lowest point.
For example, a 4 x 4 meter shade sail is best installed with two higher fixing points at 3 meters and two lower fixing points at 2 meters (4 × 25 cm lowering). This ensures proper water drainage and optimal tension of the sail.
Different drop configurations
For a triangular shade sail, it’s simple: you only need to lower one corner to create the necessary slope.
For a four-sided shade sail, you have two options. You can either lower two fixing points on the same side, as described above, or lower two opposite corners.
When lowering opposite corners, the required height difference can be reduced. For example, with a 4 x 4 meter shade sail, you only need to lower the corners by 50 centimeters to achieve the correct slope.
Water and wind
Take external factors such as wind and rain into account. It’s always important to consider the prevailing wind direction.
Ideally, position the lower point or points in the direction of the wind, rather than against it. This reduces wind pressure on the sail and helps prevent rain from being blown underneath.