When you love enjoying your outdoor space but are concerned about the sun's harmful UV rays, you'll need to find the perfect shade accessories to fit your outdoor environment.
There are several materials and styles to choose from and you'll need to know which ones are most compatible with your outdoor structures. Check out the five expert tips below for choosing the best shade accessories that keep you protected while sprucing your outdoor space.
Enjoy the great outdoors without the lingering buzz of mosquitos ready to litter your legs with red, itchy bumps. Mosquito netting offers protection from direct sunlight while also keeping you safe from lingering bugs while you lounge outside.
If you have an old structure that could use a makeover, choose a replacement cover. You can find replacement canopy covers that offer protection from damaging UV rays while giving your outdoor space a design boost. Leave the hanging curtains open or create a cozier environment by letting them down.
If the sun shines directly on only one side of your outdoor space, you may just need a side wall shade accessory. These can be erected against open fencing or can be fabric with ties, designed to be used with outdoor structures, like gazebos and pergolas.
An umbrella is a budget-friendly option that brings shade to your outdoor space - set it next to your dining table or other seating area. Move it around freely when you rearrange your yard or patio or simply close it and tuck it into storage when not in use.
Create a sturdy shade accessory with a pergola -- you can attach these designs directly to your home or choose a free-standing option. You can add-on fabric canopies for extra protection or leave it uncovered for the breeze and sun to peak through freely. Pergolas require assembly so have some friends available when it's time to transform your outdoor space.
You can make a gazebo a permanent addition to your home or leave it as a movable option. These types of structures range in prices and in assembly complexity. Often included are netting or curtains to create a private outdoor oasis for your lounging pleasure.
Canopies are a great shade accessory for when you need to quickly erect outdoor support for entertaining. You spike these into the ground for safety and pack them neatly away once you're done using them. They can also be used to provide coverage when tailgating and camping - this is an ultra-versatile, portable, and easy to use option.
Awnings are great when you need some shade right up against your home. This style requires attachment to your house. Leave awnings permanently extended for year-round protection or install a special feature that allows for either manual or motorized retraction.
Shade sails easily anchor to posts or trees, helping you create a covered area wherever you are. Best part is they're easy to use and don't require a lot of hardware, making them great for outdoor activities - whether you're playing with the kids or enjoying the hot tub with your loved one. Prevent excessive flapping in the wind by following installation directions carefully.
If you're working with a deck or covered patio, outdoor curtains provide that extra coverage you need while also sprucing up your outdoor environment with a touch of refinement. Have some fun with curtains and color coordinate them with your outdoor furniture to create a look unique to your tastes.
Roll up exterior shades are similar to indoor blinds and attach to the exterior of your house. You can roll them up or down, depending on your day-to-day needs, which makes them super discreet. You still get the air flow you enjoy and keep your porch or patio cooler by blocking direct sunlight.
Fabric shades, like umbrellas and curtains, are designed to withstand the elements, providing you with durable sunlight protection that won't fade with continuous sun exposure. Use sheer fabrics to create a flowy, feminine environment or make a bolder statement with solid curtains that provide extra privacy.
Metal is a durable material used to uphold outdoor structures. Aluminum is ultra-lightweight, making installation easier and is ideal when using portable shade accessories. Although metal is a long-lasting material, it is prone to rust, and won't hold up as well in high-humidity environments.
Plastic is an affordable, versatile material that holds up well against the elements and easily matches any decor. It doesn't heat up underneath the sun, making it a safe option for environments with children.
Wood offers a natural feel to your space. It is sturdy and durable, though the type of wood used makes a difference. Western Red Cedar and Redwood are popular for shade structures, like pergolas, offering beautiful, long-lasting protection that is easily adorned with additional accessories and design elements, like sheer curtains and hanging plants.
You'll find shade accessories are primarily found in neutral colors, including variations of grey, beige, and white. This makes them easy to match with your existing outdoor décor; however, there are shade accessory options, like curtains, that give you a little more artistic freedom. So, if you love a bold color like purple or red, you can continue to accentuate your color scheme with a beautiful set of outdoor curtains.
