11 backyard shade ideas
In the warmer seasons, spending time on the patio with family is one of the many great ways to pass the time. If you spend those sunny days out on a patio, you know how important staying out of the heat and in the shade can be.
A patio shade can elevate your patio aesthetically and keep the sun’s rays at bay. Many shade solutions will work wonderfully on your outdoor patio, and they are more trendy than ever. Keep reading to learn how to landscape your outdoor space, including using a patio shade.
You’ll be surprised how many options are available to get your patio area “summer ready.” Whether you’re looking for full sun, full shade or sunshade options, there are plenty on the market for you. Let’s review some of the most popular backyard shade ideas, including DIY options.
11 fun shade ideas that will transform your outdoor space
When you think of shade solutions for your patio, it’s likely only a few options come to mind. However, there are a plethora of options available — some you may have never considered. In addition to purchasing a new pair of shades and getting your summer body back, get ready for the summer season by sitting back and reading these various shade solutions!
This is not your grandma’s backyard. Patio solutions have expanded tremendously. From tree canopies to pergolas, you can make your outdoor space just as relaxing and cool to sit in as staying indoors.
Pergola
A fantastic outdoor shade solution for your patio is a pergola. A pergola is an archway often consisting of a framework covered with plants or material — but it can also be left open. It’s often thought that pergolas don’t offer great shade, but this varies depending on the design. The nice part of the pergola is it allows in sun rays while still providing a shaded area. Wisteria can grow over the pergola for a nice garden look.
A pergola provides shade and is also a beautiful structure to look at. The downside is a pergola might not provide the level of shade coverage you prefer. According to HomeAdvisor, pergolas range from $2,000 to $4,000 on average.
Awning
Awnings often bring us back to tea at grandma’s house. However, more contemporary awnings have transformed their standard look. An awning is usually attached to the side of a home and is a great shade solution that reduces heat and sun damage inside your home.
Contemporary awnings are made of a more pliable material and have a more modern, appealing look. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of an awning generally ranges from about $800 to over $4,000. A retractable awning will be more costly. However, they are worth it in the long run.
Shade sail
A shade sail is a patio or deck covering composed of durable outdoor fabric that protects you from the sun. A shade sail offers a great patio cover. There are many benefits because it’s affordable and offers protection from the sun. The average cost is similar to an awning but can vary based on the size of the space. You can easily find shade sails on Amazon or look up ways to DIY one using common materials found at your local fabric store. Wood or PVC pipes make a great structural foundation.
Gazebo
A gazebo is a roofed structure that offers views of the outdoor area. A gazebo is an excellent relaxation or entertainment option. A patio gazebo provides a relaxing setting outdoors for picnics and large gatherings. Add a patio table for the perfect picnic retreat. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a gazebo is between $3,000 and $10,000.
Patio umbrella
A patio umbrella is a classic solution for your outdoor space because it’s specifically designed for outdoor leisure. It conveniently fits into your patio table, is affordable and provides shade from the sun. The average cost of a patio umbrella is $20 to $100. However, some more expensive models can cost up to $1,000.
Cantilever shade structure
A cantilever shade structure is a shade solution engineered from steel and concrete footing, and it can span large spaces in the form of a cantilever (a beam supported at one end). The benefits of this shade solution include that it’s great as a car park, freestanding, and excellent protection from the sun. The average cost ranges from $3,500 to $6,000.
Cabana
A cabana is a hut typically made of wood and fabric. When thinking of cabanas, we often envision poolside or beach cabanas. However, a cabana is a great shade solution for your patio. It offers a homey feel — an outdoor room as an escape from your home. It is also a great way to unwind away from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Create a seating area to make the space ideal for family dinners. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a patio cabana is $2,000 to $5,000.
Daybed
A daybed is a type of outdoor lounge furniture that can come with a shaded element on top. A daybed is often paired with a canopy to offer the ultimate sense of relaxation and sun protection from harsh UV rays. You can also use mosquito netting to keep the bites at bay. The average cost ranges widely from $500 to $5,000. The look, materials and size of your daybed will alter the cost. Sites like Wayfair offer excellent daybed solutions for your outdoor space.
Outdoor curtains
Outdoor curtains are a sleek, fashionable shade solution for your outdoor patio landscape. Outdoor curtains offer privacy and shade to your outdoor patio. However, they’re versatile to open or close depending on the time of day. The average cost of installing outdoor curtains is $50 to $200. Your outdoor curtains can come in a variety of styles and materials. They can add a burst of color to your space and keep you protected from the sun.
Constructed overhang
A constructed overhang is a structure that hangs over your roof. It provides excellent shade from the sun, and it is sturdier than an overhang like a pergola. Constructed overhangs can be vinyl, wood or metal. However, you want to use heavy-duty materials for longevity. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost can be $4,000 to $22,000, depending on the materials.
Tree canopy
Nature often provides the best form of shade. Sitting under a large tree and feeling the wind brush your shoulders can be quite a majestic experience. If you already have a large, swirling tree around your home, consider using that for shade instead of chopping it down to replace it with another shade solution.
A tree can lower a home’s temperature by 20 degrees or more! You can build around the tree and use a shade canopy like one of the many mentioned above. A canopy will elevate the use of the space. Consider tree trimming and planting costs, which can add up to a few hundred dollars a year.
Discover how Cinch can protect your home systems and appliances from costly repairs
Cinch Home Services can offer protection for your home. If you love grilling or using appliances outdoors in your outdoor patio area, Cinch is a great option as you make your home improvements.
Cinch covers major appliances and built-in systems, giving you peace of mind when using those crucial home systems. We cover specific things, like water heaters and outdoor sewage lines, so you can breathe easily knowing you’re keeping everything in check.
Serving nearly 1 million customers, Cinch has more than 40 years of experience making homeowners feel secure in the products they use on a regular basis. Furthermore, Cinch offers a 180-day workmanship guarantee on all repairs.
If a covered system breaks down, simply contact Cinch, and we will get a vetted service technician there in no time. All covered repair services require a deductible, which goes toward service fees. Reach out today for an instant quote and feel at ease as you prepare to enjoy the full value of your home this season.