Choosing the right anchor hardware depends on what you’re attaching your Shade Sail to. We include all the tensioning hardware needed to connect your sail to the anchor points, but because every installation is unique, anchor hardware is sold separately and must be selected to suit your specific setup.
Below, you’ll find our range of hardware options. Each piece has been individually sourced from around the world and specially chosen to perform exceptionally under all weather conditions for years to come.
All of our products are quite simply the best you can buy.
Every Shade Sails Canada product comes with the Tensioning Hardware needed for installation, including Marine Grade Stainless Steel perimeter cables, cable clamps, turnbuckles and shackles. Anchoring Hardware is separate, and we’ll explain more about that in the next tab!
We also offer free shipping on orders over $500 CAD, and each product comes with its own winter storage bag.
What is Anchor Hardware?
Anchor Hardware is what connects your Shade Sail to its attachment points. Depending on your setup, this could be a brick wall, corner soffit, wooden post or another structure. Every installation is different, so choosing the right hardware is important to keep your Shade Sail securely attached and properly tensioned over the years.
At Shade Sails Canada, we offer a wide selection of high-quality Marine Grade Stainless Steel Anchor Hardware for almost any type of installation.
Maintenance
Your Shade Sail and hardware are made to last with minimal upkeep. We recommend an annual check each fall before taking your sail down for winter.
Clean the fabric with mild soap and water, and inspect for any wear or damage. Check cables, turnbuckles, shackles and anchor points for loose fittings or corrosion, and lubricate hardware threads to prevent seizing. Once the sail is completely dry, fold or roll it loosely and store it in a cool, dry place.
Rather leave it to us? Our popular Drop & Fly service can handle seasonal removal, inspections and reinstallation. Click here to learn more.
Warranty
Our Shade Sails Canada warranty applies to all customers, whether residential or commercial. Our Shade Sails are made to be strong and durable, but the strength of your anchor points is just as important. That’s why we offer premium 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel Anchor Hardware, imported from Denmark and Australia and carefully tested to ensure it meets our standards.
Which Hardware Should I Use For Different Materials?
This is a question we get all the time! There are several hardware options that work well for different installations, depending on what you’re attaching your Shade Sail to.
We’ve put together a helpful hardware video that walks you through the hardware included with our products, the anchor options we offer, and where each type can be used.
Why Does Shade Sails Canada Use 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel?
We choose 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel because of its strength and excellent resistance to corrosion, even in demanding environments like coastal areas.
It also holds up well against everyday wear, performs in high temperatures, and is non-magnetic. Since it is so resistant to corrosion, it generally needs less maintenance and replacement than many other metals, making it a great choice for long-term outdoor installations.
What Should I Do If My Shade Sail Hardware Fails?
Hardware failure is very rare, but if something does go wrong, the first step is to identify which component has failed and whether it has affected the rest of your shade system.
Take a few photos of the damaged hardware and contact Shade Sails Canada. Our team will help you assess the problem and figure out what needs to be done.
Safety always comes first. In most cases, we recommend carefully removing the shade sail fabric if it is safe to do so, to prevent further damage or possible injury. If the system is unstable, keep clear and seek professional assistance rather than attempting removal yourself.
How Deep Should My Shade Sail Hardware Be Installed?
This depends on the material you’re attaching to. Your anchor points need enough strength to support the sail and handle the forces created by tension and wind.
For wooden posts or trusses: We require at least 3 inches of solid material when installing our Welded Screw Eyes. If you can access the back of the post, truss, or pergola, a Through Bolt with a Welded Eye is another option. This uses a lock washer, lock nut, and acorn nut to secure the connection from behind.
For steel posts: Wall thickness is an important consideration. We recommend steel with a wall thickness of at least 0.25 inches to help prevent bending under tension. Through Bolts with Welded Eyes are the hardware we most commonly use for steel installations.
These are general product recommendations. The structure and attachment points must also be suitable for the loads involved.
Will My Shade Sail Hardware Rust If I Live Near The Ocean?
Our hardware is made from high-quality 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, which is highly resistant to rust and corrosion.
It's commonly used in marine environments where saltwater exposure is a concern, making it a great choice for coastal properties. With proper care, it can last for years and years!
What Is The Difference Between Attachment Hardware And Anchor Hardware?
Attachment Hardware includes the stainless steel components fitted to your Shade Sail during manufacturing. This includes turnbuckles, D-shackles, and perimeter cabling. These parts come with your Shade Sail, but we also sell replacements and additional hardware if needed.
Anchor Hardware is what secures your Shade Sail to a wall, post, or other supporting structure. The hardware you need depends on the material you are attaching to, the available anchoring depth, and the size of your sail.
We offer several anchor options in our online store, with product descriptions to help you find the right fit for your installation.
What Makes Stainless Steel Hardware A Good Choice?
Stainless steel is well suited for outdoor hardware because it resists rust and staining while maintaining its strength in demanding conditions.
It also handles high temperatures, is non-magnetic, and has a clean appearance that works well with our Shade Sail systems. Another benefit is that stainless steel is recyclable, making it a practical material for long-lasting outdoor products.
What Should I Do If My Turnbuckle Is Seized?
If your turnbuckle is stuck, start by applying the Turnbuckle Grease supplied with your Shade Sail to the threaded area. Give it a few minutes to work before gently trying to loosen the turnbuckle with a wrench or pliers.
Avoid forcing the hardware, as this could damage the threads. If it still will not move, you may need to replace the turnbuckle.
Always release tension safely before attempting maintenance, and get professional help if you are unsure how to do so.