There’s nothing better than enjoying a lovely summer afternoon in the backyard with friends and family. You can sip an ice-cold lemonade, watch the kids play, and lounge while you wait for the barbeque to begin. However, while sunny days are delightful, too much sun can throw a wrench in your day of relaxation. Therefore, it’s helpful to know how to create more shade in your outdoor space.
Add Umbrellas
Umbrellas are one of the simplest and most affordable ways to add shade to your backyard. Various sizes and styles are available, allowing you to select one that best meets your needs. Many people opt for traditional market umbrellas that you can place in the center of an outdoor dining or seating area. Cantilever umbrellas are another popular option as they provide more coverage than traditional models due to their adjustable arms and larger canopy size.
Plant Trees
Trees are another effective way to create more shade in an outdoor space. They protect from direct sunlight and act as natural windbreakers to help reduce temperatures during hot weather. When selecting trees for your landscape, choose species that will provide adequate shade and grow well in your area. Some of the best trees for providing shade include maples, oaks, elms, beeches, and ash varieties. When selecting the location for your trees, consider where you want the most coverage throughout the day.
Get a Shade Sail
A shade sail is a fantastic solution to add instant shade and protection from the sun. Available in various shapes, sizes, and colors, these sails feature breathable fabric that shields against UV light while allowing air to circulate freely. The most popular styles are rectangular, square, and triangular. Rectangular and square varieties cover larger areas such as patios or seating spaces. Triangular models can create interesting visual patterns or cover smaller areas like hot tubs and pools. It’s good to know how to install a shade sail over a deck or patio for the best results.
Install a Pergola
You can also install a pergola for added outdoor shade and to add visual interest to your backyard. Several pergola structures are available, ranging from wooden designs that offer a rustic feel to metal versions for a modern look. They also come in multiple sizes. If you plan to entertain guests underneath it, opt for larger models with multiple columns and beams. On the other hand, smaller varieties with minimal design details will suffice if you only need limited shade coverage. You can also grow vines on your pergola for additional shade and aesthetic appeal.
As you work to make your backyard more comfortable for the warmer months, use these tips to create shade in your outdoor space. Before you know it, you will have a stunning shade solution perfect for relaxing during those dog days of summer.
