Ordering a custom shade sail is simple when you collect the right details. Accurate measurements, a clear shape choice, and planned fabric fall give you a tight sail that looks sharp, drains fast, and lasts longer. Use this guide to record what we need and to avoid the common DIY mistakes that add cost or delay.
Precise numbers keep the process smooth. Measure the overall area you want shaded, then record the spans between the actual fixing points you plan to use. Note the clear heights at each corner from finished ground, not from decks or steps, so fall can be set correctly. Add setbacks from boundaries and eaves, and mark any services that affect post locations.
Shape drives both style and function. Triangles suit small courtyards and entries, they give strong visual lines and easy twist. Quadrilaterals cover larger zones with fewer posts, they also allow more control of fall direction. Complex areas may work best with two smaller sails that overlap cleanly. Keep corners where they can pull in straight lines with no gutters, branches, or pergola beams in the way.
Sails should not hold water. Set at least one high and one low corner, then twist across opposite corners to avoid flat planes. Aim the low edge toward a garden or drain, not across doors or main paths. Leave room for hardware at every corner so turnbuckles and shackles can tension smoothly. Once installed, keep edges straight, recheck tension after the first warm week, and again at season change.
Clear visuals help us finalise your cut plan. Take a wide photo from each side of the area, then add close-ups of walls, beams, and proposed post spots. Include a simple sketch with corner labels, spans between corners, and arrowed heights. If afternoon sun is the issue, mark the sun path to block.
There are many traps you can fall into when attempting DIY. If you avoid these though using these tips you will get a cleaner fit and a professional looking sail. Equal-height corners create flat planes and ponding. Corners pushed hard against eaves leave no room for hardware. Long spans without extra height lead to mid-panel sag. Soft posts or shallow footings move under load and loosen the sail.
Send your spans, corner heights, and photos. We will confirm the design, set a fall that drains fast, and provide a fixed quote. Prefer to talk it through first? Call 0410 45 44 38 or contact us online for a prompt response!
Measure the spans between the fixing points you plan to use. This gives us the true edge lengths for cutting.
Plan a clear high and low corner. On small spans, 300 to 800 mm usually works. Increase fall on larger spans to 1000 – 1500.
Only if the structure behind the fascia is suitable and reinforced. If in doubt, use posts.
Sometimes, but two smaller sails often improve fall, reduce loads, and simplify tensioning and maintenance.
Spans between corners, height at each corner, site photos, and any limits on posts or fixings. We handle fabric cut, hardware, and layout advice.