How to Attach Sun Sail Shades to Trees

Quck answer

To hook sun sail shades to trees, follow these steps:

1. Choose a sturdy tree with strong branches to support the shade sail.

2. Measure the distance between the attachment points on the shade sail and the tree branches.

3. Use heavy-duty ropes or straps to secure the shade sail to the tree.

4. Wrap the rope or strap around the tree branch and through the attachment point on the shade sail.

5. Tie a secure knot or use a carabiner to fasten the rope or strap.

6. Repeat the process for each attachment point, ensuring the shade sail is tightly secured to the tree.

7. Adjust the tension of the shade sail as needed to achieve the desired amount of shade.

Remember to regularly check the ropes or straps for any signs of wear or damage and make adjustments as necessary to maintain the integrity of the installation.


During the summer, many people find it difficult to use their backyards, decks, and patios due to the lack of shade. By installing a sun sail over specific areas, you can effectively escape the heat. Sun sails, also known as shade sails, are made of lightweight material that blocks up to 90 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays while still allowing some light to pass through. The fabric weave has small spaces that allow the material to breathe, resulting in significantly lower temperatures compared to direct sunlight. Attaching a sun sail directly to trees gives you the freedom to choose where you want shade.

Step 1

Using a ladder, mark the spot on the tree trunk where you want to install your shade using chalk. Ensure that the height is suitable for people to walk comfortably underneath. Don’t worry about it being perfect initially, as you can adjust the height later. Measure the height and mark the other trees at the same height.

Step 2

Take a bungee cord and wrap it around the tree once, with both ends facing in the direction where your sun shade will be installed. Wrap a zip tie around the two ends of the bungee cord above the hook. Thread the loose end through the eye of the zip tie and pull it until it is loosely secured. Push the zip tie up close to the tree trunk, leaving only enough space for two fingers between the bungee cord and the tree. Use the same method to attach bungee cords to the other trees. Trim the ends of the zip ties if they are unsightly.

Step 3

Lay your sun sail flat on the ground over the desired shade area. Make sure the sun sail is at least 12 inches away from each tree to accommodate the attachment hardware. If there are large areas to cover, cut chains or ropes to the appropriate length.

Step 4

Place a snap hook over both hooks on one of the bungee cords. Attach a turnbuckle to one end of the snap hook and the sun sail grommet to the other end. If you need to cover larger spaces, attach the turnbuckle to your chain or rope before hooking it to the snap hook using an S hook.

Step 5

Tighten the turnbuckles, chains, or ropes until the sun sail is taut but still has some flexibility. Adjust the height on each tree as necessary. Lower one side of the sun sail by at least 2 inches to allow leaves and debris to slide off. Remove any excess chain or rope.

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