Category Archives: Shade Ideas

How to Measure Your Space for the Perfect Triangle Shade Sail Fit

Measuring for a shade sail

A properly measured space is key to getting the most out of your triangle shade sail. Here’s how to do it right—with tips from the experts at MightyCovers.com.

Before you install your shade sail, you need to know exactly how much space you’re working with—and how to anchor it. Whether it’s over a patio, pool, or garden corner, getting the measurements right will ensure both a secure fit and the right amount of coverage.


📏 Step-by-Step: Measuring for a Triangle Shade Sail


1. Identify the Area You Want to Shade

  • Think about how the sun moves through your space.
  • Look for existing anchor points like walls, trees, or pergola beams.
  • Decide whether you want full coverage or a partial shade effect.

🔍 Pro Tip: Sketch the area to visualize the sail and mark your anchor points.


2. Measure Between Anchor Points

  • Use a tape measure to find the distance between each of the three anchor points where your triangle shade sail will attach.
  • Measure and record each side of the triangle—these will be your sail’s reference dimensions.
  • The distance between anchor points should be slightly longer than the actual sail to allow space for tensioning hardware.

🧮 Let MightyCovers.com help!

  • Provide us with your anchor point measurements.
  • We’ll calculate the ideal sail size for you, factoring in proper tensioning and fit.

3. Factor in Tensioning Space

  • Allow 10% to 15% extra space on each side for tensioning hardware like turnbuckles or eye bolts.
  • Example: If the distance between two anchor points is 12 ft, your sail edge will likely be around 10.5–11 ft.
  • Proper tensioning ensures the sail stays taut and secure.

⚠️ Too tight? You risk tearing the fabric.
⚠️ Too loose? It could sag or flap in the wind.
✔️ MightyCovers.com ensures a perfect fit every time.


4. Plan for Height & Slope

  • Water Resistant shade sails must be installed with an 18 to 20 degree slope. This allows rain to run off and adds a modern, architectural flair. Mesh shade sails can be sloped, but it is not necessary since they will not let water accumulate on them.
  • Choose one or two corners to be higher than the others for proper drainage and airflow.

📐 A drop of about 3 foot for every 10 foot of span is a good general rule for water resistant shade sails.


🔧 Need a Custom Fit?

No problem. MightyCovers.com specializes in custom triangle shade sails to your exact measurements—just send us your anchor-to-anchor dimensions, and we’ll take care of the rest.


📝 Summary Checklist

✅ Measure anchor point distances
✅ Account for 10–15% tensioning gap
✅ Plan for a height difference (slope)
✅ Choose materials and colors to match your outdoor space
✅ Reach out to MightyCovers.com for custom sizing help


Coming up next in our Shade Sail Series:
👉 Installation Tips: How to Hang a Triangle Shade Sail Like a Pro