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Wind Rating

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Wind Load Ratings

clear wind blocker for patio

What is the top wind speed that the curtains are designed to hold?

  • How much wind a particular industrial curtain can endure is a tough question. It relates to such variables as wind speed, curtain size, attachment points, hardware style, and temperature. They all play a key role in the longevity of a curtain in windy conditions. With that, small curtains can handle a fair amount of wind, while large curtains are at higher risk for damage.
  • Please remember that these curtains, once erected, act as large sails, which produce a tremendous amount of stress on their attachment points. Basically, all manufacturers will inform you that their curtains are designed to block the breeze but can get damaged in strong winds. If you have high wind speeds, it is best to retract the curtains and let the wind blow through to prevent damage. If high winds are going to be present, then please inform us before your curtain is produced so we can reinforce critical components.

Options To Anchor Your Curtain

velcro-anchor-straps

Velcro Anchor Straps

Max curtain size: 7' in height
Wind Capacity: Breeze

Akon offers Velcro anchor straps at the very bottom of our curtains, which are spaced approximately every 2–4 feet. These are not provided as a method to reinforce the curtain from high wind loads, but rather, they are there for drafty conditions, as noted on your quote and order confirmation. If used in windy conditions, the straps will likely break.

wind straps for curtains

 Wind External Straps

Max curtain size: 20' in height
Wind Capacity: Medium

External straps (not attached to the curtain) use a webbing that takes the load off of the curtain's attachment points. Simply use "tie down straps" with "D-Rings anchors" at the top and bottom. Both are available from Amazon and local hardware stores. You would place these on the side of the curtain opposite the wind and space them about every 3-5'.

windproof-curtains

 Windproof Attached Straps

Max curtain size: 40' in height
Wind Capacity: High

Windproof curtains use a unique anchor system that reinforces the curtains from the steel track down to your hard surface. This anchoring system, along with the reinforced trolleys gives you unmatched strength for windy areas. There is seat belt-style webbing sewn to the curtain that takes the wind load rather than the curtain. More information is available here: https://www.akoncurtains.co.uk/outdoor-industrial-curtains/wind-proof-curtains/

Common Questions

What is the best way to ensure the longevity of our outdoor curtains in higher winds?

  • Pull back the curtains and tie them off in high winds.
  • Use as much opaque 18oz or 22oz material as possible, which is much stronger than clear material.
  • Make sure your curtains are not snapping back and forth in the wind (curtains are too large for the space).
  • Use wind webbing on both sides of the curtains, as shown below.

My curtain is already installed, and we have very strong wind. How can I reinforce it?

The amount of force on a really large curtain can be tremendous in high-wind areas. If you have already installed your curtain and are experiencing high wind loads, you might consider using ratchet straps to counteract the wind's force. Ratchet straps come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate your structure and span. These straps will withstand the wind load, preventing grommets from popping out and keeping roller hooks from bending.

 

Are there some more anchoring ideas?