How to Shade Your Deck or Patio

Get more use out of your backyard patio with one of these DIY options for creating shade and blocking rain.

Canopy Patio Awning

One of the most popular patio shade ideas, a canopy patio awning is permanently installed, but the fabric on most shade awnings is removable. Here’s what to know about canopy patio awnings:

• A backyard canopy patio awning or patio shade screen is a fabric-roofed structure supported by a freestanding, rigid frame that’s bolted to your deck.
• The patio awning frame becomes a permanent part of your deck, and you can either leave the fabric up year-round or remove it seasonally.
• The fabric on a backyard canopy like this should last about 15 years.
• The shade awnings are available in two roof styles (a hip roof and a pyramid roof) and several colors.
• You can install outdoor lighting on the framework to illuminate your deck or patio awning.
• Canopies and awnings are sold at most home center and garden supply stores, and are available online.

Pros: A backyard canopy patio awning is also good for full shading of compact decks or partial shading of larger decks. The patio shade cloth is resistant to tears and won’t sag. The fabric and structure can withstand rain, hail and strong winds (although the company recommends removing the shade cloth if a hurricane is imminent). Since it’s a permanent structure that doesn’t retract, the patio canopy has no moving parts that can jam or break.

Cons: Unlike retractable options, a canopy patio shade awning doesn’t offer a convenient way to let in the sun (removing the fabric on shade awnings requires two people and takes a few minutes). Also, the columns may not blend well with the deck style and can become obstructions on some deck layouts.

Article source here: How to Shade Your Deck or Patio

Article source here: