Taking Cover 5 Ways to Create Shade for your Outdoor Space

Your outdoor deck or patio is one of your favorite places to relax, dine or entertain. Sometimes, though, the hot, summer days have you running for cover. Don’t despair – there are many, different ways to provide shade to your backyard space.

Outdoor coverings provide shade to many outdoor spaces, thereby making them more comfortable, even on the hottest of days. Like anything else, there is a nice selection of solutions to your outdoor shade needs.

Permanent roofs – Although this is certainly the costliest of all shade solutions, permanent roofs can provide an attractive, sturdy solution to the glaring rays of the sun. It is also cost-effective, as most homeowners see a nice return on their investment regarding permanent patio or deck roofs.

Awnings – Awnings are available in a vast selection of materials, designs and colors to complement any home or exterior décor.

Aluminum awnings are generally permanent and, unlike awnings of years ago, provide an attractive roof for a patio. Today’s awnings are available in a great variety of colors.

Canvas awnings are non-permanent roof coverings which may be stationery or retracting. Canvas awnings provide an attractive addition to any backyard patio or deck, and can be removed when the sun’s warm rays are desired or during the colder months of the year.

Canvas awnings are available in virtually any color to match your home’s exterior.

Temporary gazebos- Large, temporary gazebos are a popular choice for short-term sun control. Often used during parties or get togethers, gazebos can be set up on a patio or in the yard. Many gazebos boast beautiful designs and features, such as mosquito netting and rain flaps.

Arbors and trellises – Arbors and trellises can provide a lovely accent to your backyard patio or deck, while at the same time provide protection from the sun. These outdoor accent pieces, when intertwined with vining plants, effectively block the sun.

Trees and ornamental grasses – Both trees and ornamental grasses, if positioned properly, can provide effective protection against the sun. Another benefit to planting trees or ornamental grasses is that they also provide sound control, wind control and privacy. In addition, they immediately add a softness and beauty to your outdoor space that no other type of cover can provide.

Another benefit to remember when using a roof or similar structure on your patio or deck is that a shaded outdoor space automatically cools the inside of the house and saves on energy costs.  Patio coverings can also reduce the temperature of your outdoor space by as much as 20 degrees!

Consider your needs and your budget before installing a roof or purchasing a patio or deck cover. Do you want a permanent structure? Do you want to block the sun all the time, or just during the hot, summer months? Do you want to deal with setting up and taking down non-permanent structures?