Patio Shade

Patios are an enjoyable out of door living space. They can serve as simple sitting areas, or elaborate outdoor rooms. Lighting and heating are naturally provided by the sun, but it is a rare patio that receives just the right amount of sunlight at just the right time of day. Options are available for patio shades that fit most situations and budgets.

Many patios are at least partially covered, and most are adjacent to a building that will provide shade for some of the day. This situation provides the basic light and heat environment for the patio, which will vary as the sun moves from east to west during the day, and from north to south and back annually. Evaluation of necessary shade should be made during each season and time of day that the patio will be used before an expensive and/or permanent shade solution is installed. An affordable temporary solution can often help alleviate hot summer sun, while allowing the sun's desirable light and heat onto the patio during the cooler months, while also protecting things such as your outdoor furniture.

Trees are attractive and provide shade naturally, although it may take three or more years before the patio will be effectively shaded by a young tree. When planting, trimming, or removing trees, it is wise to consult a professional, in order to avoid damage to the house or patio caused by the trees' limbs or roots. Although a young tree planted in close proximity to the patio will provide shade sooner, it could eventually overwhelm the space, and cause costly problems. Mature trees can provide dense shade, so this permanent solution should be undertaken cautiously. Placement of trees should provide optimum shade at maturity.

Wooden beams covered with a material that complements and extends the existing roof over the patio will provide dense shade all year. Incorporating a tinted sunroof will allow more light through without heat. If less dense shade is desired, an overhead structure can be built with wooden slats spaced to allow the sunlight to shine onto the patio. If desired, this can be covered with deciduous vines to block the summer sun. During the winter months, the sun will be allowed to shine through as the plants lose their leaves.

Tall walls and trellises can create desired shade by blocking the rising or setting sun. Shades hung from a ceiling or overhead beam provide the same benefit, and can be purchased ready made or custom made. Materials for outdoor shades are available that can block the sun, yet provide privacy, without sacrificing the view. Walls, trellises, and shades often provide shelter from the wind, but may restrict refreshing breezes. An overhead ceiling fan, standing outdoor fan, or misting fan can provide relief. Hanging shades and the structures to which they are attached can be damaged by high winds, so care should be taken when they are in use.

An aluminum awning (or other type) can be installed to create an extension of the roof to shade the patio. This can range from a simply made triangular or rectangular sail cloth attached with ropes, to a permanently installed, remote controlled and retractable awning. Easily removed or retracted, awnings provide shade as required by the season or time of day.

Another great option is to add a patio cover or awning to your existing deck or patio, which can provide you with protection from both sun and rain. You can have a cover professionally constructed on your deck, or you can do it yourself with a patio cover kit.

Attractive umbrellas can be placed over a patio table, or can be free-standing to allow a comfortable seating area underneath. Patio umbrellas typically vary in size from seven to thirteen feet square, and can be tilted in different directions as the sun moves during the day. As with hanging shades, care should be taken when umbrellas are used during periods of high winds. Some have special vents to help to prevent wind damage.

It is possible that at some time during the day, none of these solutions are successful at creating comfortable conditions on an existing patio. An additional small, casual patio can easily be created in a corner or secluded nook in the yard that is shaded by existing trees, walls, or fences. Paving stones can be laid to create the perfectly sized patio to allow outdoor use, providing a new perspective, as the house and landscaping views are enjoyed from a different angle.

When shading is implemented wisely, enjoyment of a patio is maximized. Solutions are available to solve most challenges posed by the sun so that you can enjoy relaxing or even outdoor dining on your patio. Take the time necessary to evaluate your patio shade throughout the year in order to create a beautiful and comfortable outdoor living area.