Frequently Asked Questions

At Garden House Design we aim to provide you with as many answers as we can to help you accessorise and plan your outdoor space.  If you have any suggestions on what other information we could put in this section, please do let us know.

SAIL SHADES

How easy is it to put a shade sail up?

That depends on the design of your garden, but as a general guide, once your posts are set in place, or the hooks are secure in the wal, two people could install a shade sail in an hour or so. Don't forget Garden House Design offer a full installation service. For a square sail you will need four snap hooks, four pad eyes (screwed onto post or wall) and two turnbuckles to tension. A triangle shade sail only need three hooks and pad eyes and two turnbuckles.  You will see that we do fixing kits for both shapes of sail shade.
 

What should the distance be between the sail and the fixings?

The minimum distance should be 300mm to allow for adequate tensioning

What do you fasten shade sails to?

Shade sails are easily attached to structures that provide a good firm fixing. This could be the wall of a house,a well built pergola, or wooden or metal posts concreted into the ground.  We have a range of Sail Shade fixings and fittings to help you achieve the look you desire.

Are Sail Shades Waterproof?

Shade sails are designed to protect you from the sun, and are very effective at blocking out 90% of the harmful UV rays from the sun. Our  sail shades are very effective at blocking out 90% of the harmful UV rays from the sun. They are engineered to let the hot air out from under the shade and allow wind to pass through so will never be fully waterproof.

How long should I keep my sail up?

Because the sails are UV stablised and are very well constructed with webbed edges, the pre-made sails can be left in place for 10 months of the year and only taken down when bad weather is forecasted.  However with all products that go into your garden, it is probably sensible to take them down, wash and store for the winter months. Premium Sail Shades and Standard Sail Shades are guaranteed for 10 years.
 

How do I clean my shade sail?

A hose pipe and soft brush is all that is recommended to clean your sail.