Shade sail as wind break?

[YeahBut]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone has tried a shade sail as a wind break?

I've very secure steel posts to anchor it to. My concern is it stretching too much as the wind is strong with gusts / blasts.

I'm wondering if the openness of the weave is enough to let some air through so it won't stretch too much, but tight enough to break the wind?

So, it would be used much like a fence, and no, we aren't able to use an actual wood etc fence here.

I might have to try some other ideas if the shade sail doesn't work.

Thanks 😊

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @YeahBut. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about shade sails.

Using a shade sail as a windbreak is a creative idea, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Shade sails can reduce wind flow to a certain extent, particularly if they have a more open weave that allows air to pass through. However, they are not designed to function as full windbreaks, especially in areas prone to strong gusts or blasts of wind.

The material of most shade sails can stretch or even tear under excessive wind pressure, particularly if the gusts are sustained or the sail is not properly tensioned. Even if your steel posts are very secure, the fittings and the sail itself could be at risk of damage. Over time, strong winds can also cause wear and loosening of the fabric and the tensioning hardware.

If you decide to proceed, ensure the sail is tightly tensioned and anchored with high-quality hardware to minimise flapping, which can lead to damage. Choosing a sail with a looser weave will allow more air to pass through, reducing strain on the material.

If the shade sail does not perform as hoped, consider alternatives such as planting hedge screening.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[YeahBut]

Thanks for your comprehensive reply.

I do see how a poorly secured shade sail could cause a lot of damage.

One was on the news a while ago. In a storm, it pretty much beat to death anything within its "much stretched" reach.

We've got a hedge started but that'll take some time.

So... maybe some more creative modifications / additions will be able to withstand the gusts till the hedges mature.

There's plenty of "stuff" at Bunnings to experiment with 😉

Thanks again for your suggestions & confirmation of my doubts.