By Guest Blogger, Diana S.
Throwing Shade: Easy Ways to Shade Your Patio or Deck
If you’re one of those people who love to spend time outside, getting some fresh air and enjoying the sound of nature, then you must create a practical deck or patio to quench your thirst for the outdoors. However, no matter how much you love nature and all things natural, the sun can be quite nasty in the summer and even chase you inside where it’s cool and air-conditioned. But if you install the right type of shading for your outdoor space, there’s nothing to be afraid of, not even the sun!
Colorful umbrellas
Sometimes, the oldest and least expensive way is the best way to do things and the same goes for shade! Patio or deck umbrellas are definitely the most popular and a completely foolproof way to add some sun protection to your outdoor area. These decorative umbrellas come in all sizes, shapes, colors and materials, so no matter the style you’re trying to achieve, you’ll make it! Plus, once the outdoor season is over, you can just close your umbrella, store it in the garage and wait for the next spring! Just make sure to secure your umbrella tightly, especially if you live in a windy area—you don’t want to be seen chasing one of these down the street!
Draw the curtains
If you want to add some shade AND some movement and softness to your deck or patio, you might want to add curtains to your outdoor structures. Outdoor curtains also offer some light sun protection and are quite inexpensive and easy to install. You can even DIY these curtains with some canvas and grommets! Just imagine airy curtains flowing in the gentle summer breeze while you sip a cocktail on your deck—it’s a really magical sight!
Set sail!
Another practical and affordable way to provide your outdoor space with some shelter is to invest in shade sails. These sails act as a light canopy that can cover your seating or dining area, deck hot tub or even your outdoor kitchen! They are quite easy and fast to install and they take up very little space which makes them perfect for tiny decks or patios. Shade sails also come in various sizes, colors and shapes and can look very futuristic in any space.
Build a lush pergola
If you really want to go big with shade and privacy, you should opt for a beautiful pergola. This freestanding feature will not only provide your patio or deck with all the shade that you need but also help define the space and add a dose of flair to it! You can go very old-fashioned with a wooden pergola with all sorts of ornaments or opt for something very modern and high-tech. Today, there are light aluminum pergolas with practical retractable roof systems that allow you to let the sunshine in or provide shade with the touch of a button! No matter where you are, you can control your roof with your smartphone. The weather will never surprise you again!
Let nature take care of you
If you’re not in a hurry to give your space a lot of shade, just plant some greenery, have patience and watch as nature takes care of your shade needs! Plant a fast-growing tree next to your patio or deck and in a few years, you’ll not only have a bit of shade, but also a priceless addition to your outdoor space. If you’re patient enough, your tree will live to see your grandkids playing underneath it and serve as a home to many little birds, insects and critters! Just make sure to plant your trees strategically, because they can also reduce your home’s cooling bill in the summer and heating bill in the winter!
These practical shades will not only make your patio or deck more comfortable but also add interest to your outdoor space! So, don’t be afraid to throw some shade!
Tia, and TipsfromTia.com is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.