Patio Shade 101

A Simple Guide for Creating Cover Outdoors

You may love spending time outdoors but don’t necessarily want to spend it all in direct sunlight. Creating shade for your patio protects you from harmful UV rays and provides a more pleasant experience for you and your guests. Check out these options if you have a patio or area of your yard you’d like to shade.

Here are eight ideas for shade on your patio.

Trees and Other Plants (Copy)

Trees and Other Plants

Since the beginning of human history, people have sought shade from trees and other plants, so these make the most basic and apparent choices for shade on your patio.

Image Credit: Nick’s Garden Center

Umbrella (Copy)

Umbrella

An umbrella is a practical choice because it’s relatively inexpensive (depending on which one you choose) and easy to install. Plus, it can add color to your patio or simply blend in.

Awning (Copy)

Awning

An awning takes the idea of an umbrella a step further. Although it can require a little more commitment since you may need assistance with the installation, awnings also offer many benefits. Adding an awning can help reduce energy costs, cover a larger area than an umbrella, are more permanent, and can be retractable.

Image Credit: Patio Shades Retractable Awning

Sun Shade Sail Canopy (Copy)

Sun Shade Sail Canopy

A shade sail is similar to an awning in that it offers excellent sun protection and can enhance your home and outdoor lifestyle. It fits a variety of surfaces, and the fabric can be waterproof or breathable. Also, shade sails are typically easier to install and usually not retractable.

Image Credit: AAA Sun Control

Pergola (Copy)

Pergola

From the Latin word, pergula, meaning projecting eave. Generally constructed with at least 4 vertical support posts and topped with crossbeams and rafters, providing form and function to your outdoor living space. Pergolas come as either a freestanding structure or attached to your home, with modern design options like retractable, innovative, or louvered.

Image Credit: Forever Redwoods

Overhang (Copy)

Overhang

An overhang is attached to the roof's edge, hangs over the exterior wall and siding, and is not there solely for show or shade. They can also help reduce your energy costs, reduce moisture in your basement or crawlspace, and add an area for installing exterior lighting and fans. The benefits and functionality of an overhang make adding one to your custom building plans or existing home an excellent idea.

Image Credit: Pools and Decks Contractors

Loggia (Copy)

Loggia

A loggia takes the overhang concept a step further. It is also a covered passageway running alongside the length of a building with columns or arches for both support and splendor and open on one side.

Image Credit: Jane Lockhart Design

Patio Shades (Copy)

Patio Shades

Consider installing outdoor patio shades in your space. Shades will control the amount of sun that shines through, protect you and your furnishings from harmful UV rays, and add a decorative element to your outdoor living area. Hunter Douglas offers attractive and effective options in various sophisticated fabrics. Contact our showroom for an appointment.

Image Credit: Hunter Douglas

LET US HELP YOU FIND THE PERFECT SHADE OPTION FOR YOUR PATIO! STOP BY THE HOMESOURCE DESIGN CENTER SHOW TO VIEW OUR DISPLAYS OF HOME FINISH MATERIALS & PRODUCTS, OR CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR EXPERIENCED KITCHEN & BATH DESIGNERS.