Netting structures and wind: What you need to knowUpdated 4 months ago
A note on wind ratings
Our netting products are not engineered or certified to a specific wind load rating. The guidance in this article is general in nature and customers are responsible for making setup and takedown decisions based on their own conditions and circumstances.
From our experience, in most everyday conditions your net will handle the breeze without any issues. That said, it is worth being prepared for sudden strong wind events like a southerly buster, where conditions can change quickly and unexpectedly.
When to take your net down
If strong or gusty winds are forecast, the safest option is to take your net down until conditions pass. This is especially important if your setup includes shade cloth, banners, or any attachments that increase the surface area catching the wind. These additions can place significant extra load on your structure and anchor points.
Securing your net as a precaution
For everyday use in light to moderate conditions, we recommend using ground pegs to anchor the base of your net, or running rope through the frame and tying off to nearby fixed structures like fences or posts. Both approaches meaningfully reduce movement and stress on the netting. Note that ground pegs work best in grass or soft ground. If you are setting up on concrete, hardwood decking, or another hard surface, rope ties to fixed structures or weighted bases are a better option.
How mesh size affects performance
Large mesh netting allows wind to pass through freely, making it far more forgiving in breezy conditions. Smaller mesh sizes catch more wind, though the added weight of a denser net does help offset this to some degree. If your setup uses small mesh, we suggest being more conservative about when you take it down.
Coastal conditions and rust
If you are based near the coast, wind can carry salt air into your setup over time. While this is unlikely to cause any immediate issues, prolonged salt exposure can accelerate rust on metal frames and fittings. Rinsing your frame and hardware down periodically and storing the net when not in use are simple habits that will extend the life of your setup considerably.
Inspecting your net over time
Wind stress places repeated load on netting, and UV exposure gradually weakens mesh fibres over time. We recommend periodically checking your net for fraying, brittleness, or any signs of wear, particularly after a heavy wind event. Catching early deterioration means you can replace the net before it becomes a safety issue.
Placement and neighbouring properties
It is worth thinking about where your net is positioned relative to fences, structures, and neighbouring properties. In the unlikely event that a setup comes down in severe conditions, a well chosen position reduces the risk of damage to property nearby.