How to Install a Windscreen By Cari | Published on June 9, 2025June 9, 2025 Windscreens are a great addition to sports facilities, construction sites, and recreational areas. They reduce wind interference, add privacy, and enhance the appearance of fencing. But to get the best performance and a clean, professional look, it’s essential to learn how to install a windscreen properly. This guide walks you through the full process from measuring your fence to installing your windscreen. Step 1: Accurately Measure Your Fence Before you order or install your windscreen, you need precise measurements. Here’s how to do it right: Before you begin measuring, gather these essential tools: Note pad (preferably with a grid for sketching layouts) Pencil or pen 100-foot tape measure (not a measuring wheel) Why not a measuring wheel? Measuring wheels can skip or misread on uneven ground, leading to inaccurate panel sizing. A tape measure ensures consistent, precise results. Fence Height Measure from the bottom of the top crossbar to the ground. Subtract 4 to 6 inches from the total height to allow for clearance at the bottom. This helps with airflow and makes maintenance easier. Note that tennis courts usually have level surfaces, so height is uniform. Field fences, however, may sit on uneven ground, so expect some variation. Fence Length Measure from tension bar to tension bar. These are the vertical bars at the ends of each fence section. Subtract 1 foot from the total length to ensure a proper, tensioned fit for each panel. For areas like tennis court gates or transoms, measure from the bottom of the top crossbar to the top of the bottom crossbar. Panel Size Guidelines To make handling and installation easier, keep each windscreen panel under 60 feet in length. Once you’ve taken your measurements, double-check your notes and sketch out each fence section if necessary. Clear and accurate documentation saves time during installation. Step 2: How to Install a Windscreen Proper installation is the second key factor (after accurate measuring) in achieving a professional, durable, and visually clean windscreen setup. Whether you’re working alone or with a team, following this step-by-step guide ensures a secure, long-lasting fit. 1. Start at One End Securing the Top Edge Unroll and lay out the full panel along the section of fence to be covered. Attach the top corner grommet to the chain link fence (not the top rail) using a heavy-duty tie-wrap. Continue attaching along the top edge, securing every grommet as you go for the first 10 feet. Pull the windscreen taut with each tie to eliminate wrinkles and sagging. Important: Do not skip grommets. Attaching at every grommet evenly distributes wind load and prevents premature damage or blowouts. 2. Attach the Vertical Edge Return to the starting point and secure the vertical edge from top to bottom. Keep the windscreen tight as you fasten each grommet. 3. Secure the Bottom Edge Move along the bottom edge, again attaching about 10 feet at a time. Pull the panel snug to maintain tension and a neat appearance. Lay the windscreen flat between grommets—do not stretch the material. 4. Continue in 10-Foot Sections Repeat this process, top, vertical, and bottom, in 10-foot increments until the entire panel is installed. 5. Install Additional Panels Use the same process for each remaining panel. 6. Secure Center Grommets (If Applicable) Some windscreens come with center grommet strips for added stability. Use lacing cord to weave through these grommets and the fence mesh for a more secure hold. Pro Installation Tips Teamwork Tips: If working with others, have one person work along the top, and another along the bottom, staying about 10 feet apart. This speeds up installation and keeps the panel aligned. Avoid Windy Conditions: Don’t install on windy days. Wind can balloon the material, making it difficult to keep taut and aligned. Correct Attachment: Never attach tie-wraps to the top rail. Always attach directly to the chain link mesh. Angle tie-wraps slightly to the right. This helps keep the windscreen flush and tensioned. Don’t over tighten the ties; this can cause a wave effect or even tear the material. Maintenance: Regularly inspect and adjust as needed to keep your windscreen looking great all season long. By following these steps, you’ll get a tight, professional-looking windscreen installation that enhances both the performance and aesthetics of your facility. Contact Us Have questions or need custom windscreen panels? Contact us today for expert help and recommendations.
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