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Life outside is all about enjoying the beauty of nature. When warm weather beckons, it’s comforting to know there’s an accessible outdoor space to relax and soak up some sun.
While the chance to enjoy some time in the sun is a great reason to get outdoors, sometimes the sun can compromise comfort when enjoying exterior living spaces. No one wants to melt while spending time outdoors, and al fresco dining with the sun in your eyes can make dinnertime less enjoyable. Thankfully, these shade options can help ensure days out back on the patio or deck are more comfortable.
• Structures: Various structures can be constructed to keep outdoor living spaces shaded from the sun. Structures are an expensive yet effective option. The final cost of a structure such as a pavilion will be affected by numerous variables, include the size and footprint of the space, the materials chosen (including the roof of the structure), and any customizations buyers go for. The online renovation resource HomeGuide notes that structure costs vary considerably by type. For example, HomeGuide notes a pergola may cost as little as $15 per square foot, while a gazebo could cost as much as $100 per square foot. While this is likely the most expensive shade option, a structure with a roof is a sure bet when looking to shade a space.
• Canopy: If structures are the most expensive option to shade an outdoor living space, a canopy might be the least expensive. But canopies can be effective. The size of the canopy will determine the final cost, but this option likely won’t burn too big a hole in homeowners’ wallets, as canopies can be had for anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars. Many modern canopies provide UV protection and can be erected in as little as 10 minutes. If you’re considering a canopy, be sure to confirm if a product comes with posts or if those must be purchased separately.
• Retractable awning: The sun hits different areas of a property at different times of day. The flexibility of a retractable awning can make sure an outdoor space has the sun protection residents and guests need when the sun is hitting areas where everyone tends to gather to eat, relax and hang out. A retractable awning must be mounted to a structure like a home, a shed or a pool house, so this won’t be an option for people looking to shade spaces that are not near such structures. A motorized awning can provide instant and effective shade when the sun hits areas where people are hanging out.
• Trees: Of course, shade need not be man-made. Strategically positioned shade trees provide lots of cooling shade during times of day when the sun is at its hottest. The shorter a tree is at the time of purchase the less it will cost. However, if instant shade is necessary, homeowners may want to splurge on taller trees to ensure immediate comfort.
The hot sun can quickly spoil an otherwise perfect day in an outdoor living space. Fortunately, there are many ways to shade such spaces from the hot sun.
