How to install a shade sail on a balcony?

Having an outdoor space like a small balcony can greatly enhance the quality of life in urban environments. The shade sail is an aesthetic and practical solution to create a pleasant shaded area to relax even during the hottest days. This article details the steps for installing this coconut shade on your balcony to offer you optimal comfort and an additional aesthetic touch. You will find a broader and general guide on fixing a shade sail here (including pergolas, etc.).

Choosing the type of shade sail

To select the ideal shade sail for your balcony, you will need to consider the dimensions and the shape. Before making a final choice, think about your personal preferences and specific needs in terms of sun protection.

Different shapes of shade sails

Shade sails are available in several shapes:

• Triangular: Perfect for giving a modern and elegant style, they require three fastening points.
• Rectangular: They offer a larger shaded area but require four fastening points.
• Square: Similar to rectangular ones, this type is very popular for its easy installation and effectiveness.

Materials used for shade sails

Shade sails are often made from several main types of materials: ppolyethylene, polyester, coconut fiber…We have chosen to work only with coconut fiber for several reasons:

• aesthetics : with its bohemian and exotic touch, coconut fiber adds a contemporary touch to your decor.
• low wind resistance : your balcony is sometimes exposed to strong winds amplified by the shape of the building (Venturi effect). The coconut fiber being openwork and having a slightly heavier weight than a simple tarp resists wind particularly well.
• rot-proof : coconut does not fear rain or snow. Moreover, it will not form a water pocket that could tear it.

Preparing the positioning of the shade sail

The correct positioning of the sail maximizes its effectiveness while ensuring a safe installation. You must consider sun exposure and take all necessary measurements before starting the installation. From experience, we advise that several people help to stretch the coconut shade sail by ‘presenting’ the sail ‘as if it were fixed’ to make sure it is well placed and not too low (we recommend as high as possible, 2.8m being ideal).

Measure the available space

First of all, take the precise measurements of your balcony. Use this data to determine which type and size of shade sail will best suit your space.

Choosing the right fastening points

Determining the best locations to fix the sail is crucial. Here are some popular options:

• Fixed walls or partitions
• Specially installed posts
• Edges of solid railings
• Footings of railings or other fixed points

Never send a fixation point into a weak or unstable structure. Ensure that each chosen support can withstand the necessary tension to hold the sail in place.

Gathering the proper materials

Installing a shade sail requires the use of appropriate equipment to ensure safety and durability. Here is a typical list of what you will need:

• Chosen shade sail
• High-quality stainless steel cables or coconut fiber rope
• Wall-fixed hooks (this is not mandatory if you find fastening points to tie the coconut rope)
• Carabiners (useful for removing it for winter, for example, without having to undo your entire setup and fastening points)
• Anchors and screws suitable for the nature of the balcony walls/structures
• Tools (drill, screwdriver, wrenches)

Installing the shade sail

Now that you have prepared the site and gathered all the necessary materials, here are the main steps to install the sail.

Setting the anchor points

The first step is to secure the anchor points on the selected walls, posts, or railings. Once the attachment points are defined, use the drill to insert the anchors at the spots marked during preparation. The wall hook must withstand part of the 1.2kg per square meter of your coconut sail.

If it’s a triangular sail, for example, measure its area ((Base × height) : 2) and multiply this amount by 1.2. You will get the total weight. Then each of the 3 attachments must support 1/3 of this amount.

If you are a tenant, make sure your landlord agrees. If you share the terrace in a co-ownership, perhaps talk with the concerned parties. Indeed, just like the installation of a pergola in co-ownership, there are legal and courtesy rules to follow 😉

Fixing the sail

Attach a corner of the sail to an anchor point using the carabiner hook and stainless steel cable. Tighten the tensioner well to ensure correct tension. Repeat this operation for the other corners to achieve a maximally stretched sail.

Final adjustments

Make all necessary adjustments to achieve the optimal tension. Use the tensioners to adjust the height and angle of the sail to ensure good sun coverage.

Finally, all you have left is to finish decorating your terrace or other chosen location with, for example, a light garland for cozy evenings.

Maintenance and upkeep

Ensuring a long lifespan for your shade sail involves regular maintenance. Clean it periodically to prevent dirt buildup and frequently check the fixings to prevent any loosening. In winter, it is advisable to store it away to avoid wearing it out too quickly.

Cleaning the sail

To clean the sail, use a solution of water and mild soap. Avoid harsh detergents that could damage the fabric. Follow these steps:

• Remove the sail if necessary.
• Gently wash with a soft brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with clear water.
• Let it dry completely.

Regular checks of the fixings

Regularly inspect all fixing points and tighten as needed. Also check the condition of the cables and tensioners to detect any premature wear.