We love to spend time in our outdoor spaces – it’s why we have them! But, around 80 percent of skin aging is caused by the sun, so we need to make sure we are smart about our outside time. The sun can quickly turn a relaxing day outside into a sweaty, squinty battle against harsh UV rays, but a good shade solution solves the problem.
The right shade protects you from the sun and transforms your patio into a functional and comfortable space you can use year-round. There are a lot of options to consider, however—awnings, shade sails, outdoor blinds, and retractable roofs, to name a few. The first question you need to answer is: do you need full coverage, or will partial shade do the trick? Once you know that, the following options will have you covered.
Add some dual-purpose shade
This first idea won’t be exclusively a shade solution, but it certainly is a cool addition to your patio with some shade thrown in – a shed bar. While they’re built with some shade in mind, they serve a cool double purpose. Your patio will become your crew’s main hangout spot when it features a granite or stainless-steel bar, complete with double bar doors or a modern garage-style opening. It’s a conversation starter, a hosting hub, and your new favorite hangout spot. It welcomes your guests under its shade, and then offers the perfect summer afternoon.
A well-designed shed bar has everything you need to entertain like a pro. It can include space for a refrigerator, shelving to showcase your spirits, and countertops to prep snacks or pour cocktails. Guests can pull up a seat under the shade of an awning at the bar while you play the role of host or bartender. Party vibes? Check.
Adding a canopy
Canopies are a practical barrier against the elements. They offer reliable shelter from intense sunlight, sudden rain showers, and windy conditions, but we love them as they are as much about style as they are about practicality. Canopies can be created from various materials, meaning you can pick from a range of colors, and designs, all customized to match any aesthetic.
There are several different canopy types to consider as well, like retractable canopies, which allow you to adjust for the perfect amount of coverage. Fixed canopies, on the other hand, offer long-term durability, and freestanding models provide portability and versatility.
Opting for outdoor blinds
Outdoor blinds look sleek, and they save a lot of space while effectively reducing heat, glare, and UV exposure; plus, they give you a bit more privacy. Perfect for patios, they can also complement other shade solutions, like retractable roofs, for a comprehensive outdoor setup. Consider these types of outdoor blinds:
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Fabric
Fabric blinds are a minimalist and effective option for sun control. You’ll find them available in durable, anti-static, and tear-resistant materials, and various opacities like translucent or blackout. While they offer some water resistance, they’re best rolled up during heavy rain to protect the fabric.
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External Venetians
These blinds feature adjustable horizontal slats, letting you fine-tune light, temperature, and privacy. Made from very sturdy materials like extruded aluminium and finished with weather-resistant coatings, they’re built to handle harsh outdoor conditions. When you want an open, unobstructed view, you just raise the slats completely.
Other factors to consider for your shade solution
Choosing the right shade solution involves more than just aesthetics—ensuring functional needs while staying durable and easy to use is just as vital. Here are two crucial factors to keep in mind when deciding on the perfect shade setup:
- Do you need complete weather protection?
For areas that experience a lot of unpredictable weather or harsh conditions, look for waterproof fabrics, UV-resistant materials, and sturdy designs. For homes near the coast or in high-wind zones, prioritize durability. Shades with corrosion-resistant components and high wind ratings ensure they’ll withstand the elements and maintain their integrity over time.
- Manual vs. Motorised
Consider how you want to operate your shade. A manual retractable awning is a great choice for smaller residential spaces like patios; however, larger areas may be better suited to motorised systems. These can be controlled via remote, wall switches, or even smartphone apps and often include programmable timers that adjust your shades automatically.
Need someone to help install your shade solution?
It’s imperative that you choose a contractor with up-to-date professional training and education, and our members tick this box. FindTheHomePros.com offers a large list of professionals, and you can browse by the type of job you need completed, like shade installations. You can also tell us about your project, and we’ll help you find the right contractor; it’s that simple.
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