Aluminium sail track not just for sailboats

What is an Aluminium Sail Track?

An aluminium sail track is a clever solution that enables a wide variety of materials to be attached to a range of structures using a sleek track system.

The track is a straight length of aluminium and can be made in different strengths depending on the use.

Aluminium is an ideal material to use because it’s strong, malleable, durable, and lightweight. The sail is finished with a specially designed edge that slides smoothly into the track. The sail is then locked in place either temporarily or permanently, depending on the use.

What are Sail Tracks used for?

So many things! They’re definitely used just as you would imagine, on sailing boats.

The next time you hear a boat captain shout the command “Hoist the sails!”, you can remember the time you read this Ullrich Aluminium blog about sail tracks and know that the sail is going to be raised to its highest position on the pole using a sail track.

But then get straight onto hoisting that sail before the captain makes you walk the plank for daydreaming…

Sail Tracks are Sometimes Called Rope Tracks

They’re commonly used to attach awnings and annexes onto caravans, campers, and motorhomes.

The sail track system means that the entire edge of the annex is seamlessly attached to the wall of the van which means there are no gaps for rain to trickle in and put a dampener on your camping bliss.

Sail tracks can also be powder coat finished in a range of colours to match your beloved camper.

'Sew' Many More Uses

Another use is attaching shade sails and blinds to patios, decks, and garages to protect people, outdoor furniture, and cars from the sun.

Tracks can be securely anchored to walls or beams on roofs and once installed, look like they have been sewn seamlessly onto it. Shade sails require heavy-duty tracks because you don’t want your sail flying off in a storm.

Along with your quality Ullrich Aluminium sail tracks, use a top-notch fabric. When installed correctly, shade sails form a structure that is tensioned into a solid shape which is designed to be steady and not flap around when the wind picks up. 

You’ll probably be surprised to know that another use for sail tracks is signage. Banners can be fixed to flat surfaces, poles, beams, and walls, so your safety sign or marketing message can be read easily from just about anywhere.

The sail track ensures the banner stays taut and fixed in place so the message isn’t moving around in the breeze. Messages can be updated simply by replacing the banner and using existing hardware.

Tony and Tanya from Signarama Burleigh Heads use Ullrich Aluminium Sail Tracks for some of their signage solutions. Banners are designed in-house and threaded onto the track. Check out how they’ve used sail track banners below:

Want to Track Down an Aluminium Sail Track?

Click this Signage and Annex Track link to see our selection of our aluminium sail track components. If you need help, track down one of our friendly team members by calling 1300 786 356 or sail into your local Ullrich Branch today. With over 50 offices around Australia and New Zealand, we have helpful ‘sails’ people everywhere to help get your project on track!

Posted at 15 October 21