Practical Options for Creating Shade Over Your Deck

A nice deck can be one of the most enjoyable places to spend time during the summer months. However, a deck without shade can turn from a backyard paradise into an uncomfortable nightmare during the hot, sunny days that will inevitably occur in this time frame. That’s why it is important to have proper sun protection options for your deck, especially during summer. When you can block out the harmful, beaming rays during hours of peak sunshine, you can enjoy an atmosphere that is significantly cooler and fights off sunburn. Here are some easy, practical ways to create shade over your deck.

Outdoor Umbrellas

Umbrellas are stylish, easy to set up, and relatively affordable. Many newer patio umbrellas even have the ability to tilt in certain directions, so you point them towards the sun and stay cool at any time of day. If you have an outdoor dining table, it is almost imperative that you have a proper umbrella to keep your guests comfortable while they enjoy your food and beverages. However, umbrellas don’t have to be limited to tables and can be placed all over your deck depending on where they fit best.

Fabric Canopies

Canopies provide more coverage than umbrellas, but they do require a larger structure and a little bit more work. Still, you can get by with a minimal frame as long as it is tightly secured to your deck railings. From here, simply choose the fabric and design that you like, and you’ll have a nice cool deck in no time. We recommend light colors to reflect the sun’s rays and keep the heat out. Even if the canopy is high, it can get pretty hot underneath it if it is absorbing the sun. There are some retractable canopies that can be easily rolled in and out, so you don’t have to have it up all the time if you don’t want to.

Wisteria

Wisteria is a perennial flowering vine that can grow in almost any climate and can provide ample coverage and shade. It also looks nice and gives your deck a unique natural aesthetic that allows you to truly appreciate the outdoors. It does take a bit of maintenance, but in general, it is an easy-going plant that can add character to any deck or while creating a nice shad cover for you and your family.

Sun Shade Sails

Sun shade sails are sort of a half-canopy, half-umbrella creation that works just as well as either of those items. The best part is that they don’t require the frame of a canopy or the base of an umbrella. As long as you have something to hang them from, you’ll be able to set them up in no time. Most sun shade sails come with the accessories necessary to hang them up, and it is no more difficult than putting up a hammock. They also give an interesting, satisfying look to your deck, and may even be a conversation starter!