Shade in Your Backyard - 3 Highly Recommended Solutions

Shade is a must, especially during the summer. In this article, we'll explore some options for you to create plenty of shade in your backyard.
Shade in Your Backyard - 3 Highly Recommended Solutions

Last update: 10 March, 2021

Trees and climbing plants aren’t the only things that create shade in your backyard. Canopies, parasols, and tents provide just as much protection from the sun as well.

In this article, we’ll explore the main aspects to consider when choosing between any of the three aforementioned alternative sources for shade. That way, you’ll make the best decision that suits your decorative style.

Shade in your backyard with canopies

Canopies provide a great source of shade in your backyard.

Canopies provide a perfect refuge for large gatherings in an enjoyable environment. Also, a canopy adds the perfect decorative touch to your backyard.

A canopy is a simple, practical, and functional system. Apart from providing shade and allowing you to enjoy being outside in your backyard, it offers a high level of privacy from indiscreet eyes.

When choosing a canopy, aim for the highest quality. Also, ensure that it’s been tested for safe use and hire a specialized professional to install it.

Types

There are a wide variety of canopies on the market. Here are some of the most common:

  • Straight leg: Mainly used on terraces. They have folding front arms reinforced by springs to protect them from the wind.
  • Monobloc: Mounted on a square bar that provides greater resistance to the fabric.
  • Chest: The canvas and arms are protected by an aluminum drawer, which they can be stored in when.
  • Plane or sail: This joins the awning between walls and covers the space of a patio.

Care

All canopies need some care to stay in good condition. Occasionally, you should vacuum them if they’re made of cloth or wash them with soap and water if they’re made of plastic.

At least once a season, apply grease oil to the mechanism. If the canopy is fabric, improve its waterproof quality by using aerosol starch.

Rain and wind are a canopy’s worst enemies. If you unfold it and it starts to rain or there are strong winds, grab it before the water soaks it or the wind rips it.

Fabrics and colors

A woman adjusting the shade

We recommend 100% acrylic fabrics because they’re rain and sun resistant. They’re completely waterproof and easy to clean.

A widely used fabric is the screen, made of fiberglass and coated with PVC. It’s very effective in combating UVA rays and keeping you at a comfortable temperature.

When choosing the color of your canopy, opt for light colors. Dark colors tend to become easily discolored, creating an undesirable appearance.

Also, when choosing a color, make sure it matches the surroundings and the furniture already in place.

Parasols

Sit outside under a parasol with your family and friends.

Parasols are essential for your backyard. They’re made of wood, aluminum, and metal. In addition, they come in fabrics of a wide variety of colors.

There are also different types of parasols, described below:

  • Simple: Those that only go up and down.
  • Practical: They have a break that allows them to be adjusted according to the sun’s position.
  • Original: These stand out for not having a central pole, supported by a lateral angular structure.

Using tents as shade in your backyard

Tents can create the perfect decorative touch.

With a metal or wooden structure and polyethylene or canvas covers, tents are another great source of sun protection. You can place them anywhere in your backyard and use them as gazebos or even as garages.

There’s a wide range of tent options with attractive designs. They’re also safe and quick to install. Many are even foldable, and their assembly and disassembly are easy and simple.

Tents come in different sizes to adapt to any need. If you’re hosting an outdoor party, tents are the perfect solution.

What are you waiting for? Install that canopy, parasol, or tent in your backyard today. No more worrying about the sun if you choose to read a book or hang out with friends in your backyard!