Own the end of your dock.

The measurements you provide are intentionally reduced by about 18 inches per corner during manufacturing. This extra space between the dock shade’s corners and the mounting posts is by design. It allows the fabric to stretch properly and creates the correct tension on all sides when using the included 3:1 mechanical advantage pulley systems.

Without these curves (hollow), the edges would tension tightly while the center would sag and flap, exactly like trying to stretch a rectangular tarp. Here's what the hollow accomplishes:

• Even tension distribution: When you pull the corners tight, the inward curves try to "straighten out." This pulls the fabric outward from the center, keeping the middle of the sail firm and suspended instead of sagging.
• Prevents flapping and wind issues: A properly tensioned sail with these curves resists wind loads better, reduces movement, and avoids the loose, billowing effect you'd get with a flat tarp.
• Structural integrity: The curve is typically about 5–7% of the side length at its deepest point. This catenary shape (similar to the curve of a hanging chain) is mathematically efficient for distributing forces to the corners.

Our poles are heavy-duty 1 1/2-inch galvanized Schedule 40 pipe with an outside diameter of about 1.9 inches. Galvanized hardware and adjustable eye bolts let us fine-tune the shade height.

For standard pipe docks, we replace the existing vertical pipes with longer galvanized posts that reach the lakebed and reuse your current dock brackets at deck level. For ShoreStation docks, we use a genuine ShoreStation bracket on the two dock fingers. The post runs through a round receiver tube and reaches the lakebed. Depending on the dock and lakebed, posts may be augered, but augering is not required for every installation.

ShoreStation brackets extend no more than 10 inches from the dock edge. Every ShoreStation installation includes PVC Torpedo Bumpers to cushion the bracket and part of the post. Standard pipe docks do not need bumpers because the replacement post stays where the current pipe was located.

No deck-mounted umbrella base or pergola frame is needed. On standard piers, the longer posts replace your existing dock pipes in the same spots. On ShoreStation docks, the longer posts sit about 6 inches outside the dock. Either way, the seating area and main walking path stay open.

Your DockShade includes the custom-sewn Polytex+ mesh shade, mounting and connection hardware, 3:1 mechanical advantage pulley systems, the furling system, control lines, quick-connect shackles, and a fitted zippered storage cover. Installation includes the longer galvanized dock posts.

The 3:1 mechanical advantage pulley system lets you tension each shade corner with a simple rope pull, then secure the line at the V-Fiddle Blocks for a clean, tight shade.

Installation is available within 100 miles of Fort Wayne after ZIP qualification. The price includes the galvanized poles, hardware setup, and full installation on a scheduled date once your shade is ready.

Once the system is set up, the shade can unfurl in less than a minute. Pull the control line to roll it back toward one corner, then close the fitted cover around the furled shade between lake days.

Polytex+ is an open HDPE mesh that creates shade while allowing air to pass through. It reduces the solid-sail effect of wind, but it is not a waterproof roof.

Furl the shade before storms, heavy gusts, or whenever the dock will be unattended. The system is designed to roll away quickly; the included cover protects the furled shade between uses.

Most shades are ready in about 2-3 weeks. The current build window appears with your price, and installation dates are coordinated once the finished shade is ready.