I'm looking to set up a large 16'x16' shade and I have some trees that I can use to tie it down at the corners. However, I'm unsure about what type of rope would be best since it's pretty heavy and could be affected by wind. Are there specific types of rope that would work well for this? Also, I'm concerned about the rope damaging the tree bark over time. Are there any sleeves or protectors for trees that you would recommend?
2 Answers
I'd recommend using chain instead of rope. If your trees are sturdy (like over 20 inches in diameter), a chain might be more secure. Just keep in mind that chains can also damage the bark, so be careful how you attach it!
You can go with some 7/16 or 1/2 inch nylon rope. It's strong enough for holding up the shade and should handle the wind pretty well. Just make sure to check how it's tied down regularly!
I'm mainly worried about the chains cutting into the trees over time. I want to protect them while making sure the shade is secure.