When it comes to windscreen installation, here are 8 easy pro-tips to follow that will result in a beautiful windscreen and protect the most expensive part of the installation — your fence.
Step 1: Start at one end of the fenced area to be covered. Lay out a full panel along the area to be covered. Attach the top corner grommet to the fence with a tie wrap. Then, attach along the top, pulling the cover taut with each grommet attachment for about 10′.
Pro-Tip: Attach the tie wrap to the fence in the direction the panel is being pulled (rather than slightly backward). As the tie is tightened, it will pull the cover taut. Make sure the tie is secure, but do not over-tighten tie wraps (Tightening the tie wraps too much might result in wrinkling of the windscreen and insufficient room to straighten out the panel). After the panel is completely attached, ties can be tightened more, if necessary, to minimize any remaining wrinkles.
Step 2: Go back to the end and from top-to-bottom attach the vertical edge to the fence all the way to the bottom, again pulling taut as each tie is secured.
Step 3: Continue attachment along the bottom for about 10′, pulling the windscreen taut and making it as wrinkle-free as possible.
Pro-Tip: If two or more people are working on the panel, have one person begin attachment at the top and the second person at the bottom, working about 10′ behind the first.
Step 4: After the first 10′ of the windscreen is attached at the top and bottom, go back to the top and attach along the next 10′, pulling taut.
Step 5: Continue top/bottom attachment until the panel is completely in place.
Step 6: Repeat step 5 for the remaining panels.
Step 7: On panels with center grommets and strips, feed the lacing cord through the grommets and fence mesh. It is important to secure the center grommet strip as well as all grommets on the perimeter.
Step 8: Stand back and enjoy the finished and professional look of your fences.
Pro-Tip: Don’t install on a windy day. Wind will complicate installation.
Use a few S-hooks to temporarily hang the panel on the fence. By “lifting” the panel, it lessens the weight and makes it easier to attach and tighten the tie wrap at the grommet.
Important! Make sure to attach at every grommet. Do not skip grommets. Attachment at all grommets distributes the force when there is a high wind load. Using fewer grommets for attachment results in more load on attached grommets and a greater chance of ties breaking. When windscreens break loose and whip against the fence, they can be damaged beyond repair in a few hours.
REMEMBER – IT IS RECOMMENDED TO HANG THE WINDSCREEN ON THE FENCE MESH ONLY, NOT ON POSTS OR CROSSBARS!
For additional information on caring for and installing your screens check out our blogs Maintaining Your Windscreen and Windscreen Hanging Tips and Best Practices.
