Introduction
Outdoor patios are great! They’re a fun way to get outside with friends or family and spend some much needed time relaxing outdoors.
The beauty of patios is that you can set them up however you want. From types of furniture, to styles, to functionality, to the surrounding space and garden, you can truly craft your patio space to be unique to you. But something that often gets forgotten is patio shade. When so much focus is spent on enjoying the outdoors, it can be easy to forget that sometimes you need some shelter from the sun’s harsh rays.
That is precisely why we have put together this article. We’re going to give you the top five tips for choosing the perfect shades to complete your patio set. Shades serve the vital purpose of protecting you from the sun but they can also work up the style factor of your patio. Some even have some extra functionality that you might be interested in. Read on to find out more about patio shades!
Evaluate Your Space
The first thing you need to know is what you’re really looking for. You can do this by evaluating your outdoor space and making your choice based on the characteristics of your patio.
The main reason you need to do this before you shop is that you will quickly realize how many options are out there for exterior shades in terms of sizes, installation requirements, materials, and more. You need to know the dimensions of the patio shade for your space and where you plan to place it. This way, you can narrow down your search to a few options.
Additionally, you want the patio shade to fit into your garden or patio as a whole. It should blend seamlessly into your outdoor space and not be just an add-on. This takes us to our next point:
Style is Key
Many people think of a exterior sun shades as purely functional but you’ll quickly see that they come in many options and styles! Instead of thinking about your patio shade as a way to protect you from the sun, why not think of it as an extra accessory to build your perfect backyard patio?
Patio shades come in many styles, from hanging shades, to big curtains, to retractable covers, and more. You need to choose a style that you can install given the constraints of your yard. Beyond that, though, you want to choose one that looks good!
These shades also come in many shapes, sizes, colors, materials, and more. You can surely find one that matches the look of your outdoor area. Even if your concern is simply having a patio shade that blends into the background of your living space, there are options available for that, too. Overall, you really just want to make a choice that is in line with your personal style and direction.
Retractable?
Another major consideration with patio shades is that you might not want to be shaded at all times! Maybe you just want a short break from the heat and then go back to soaking in the rays.
Luckily, there are options for you.
Retractable patio shades are a great option that allows you to decide how much shade and sun you want. These are great because they allow you to have the best of both worlds. A sunshade is necessary at times but often you want to use your patio furniture in the sun.
These shades are easy to use, simply pull the chain to retract. There are even motorized patio shades if you want to make a bigger investment. Most retractable exterior patio shades made of weather-resistant material and last three to five years.
Another bonus is that these sun shades keep your furniture safe when you are not using it. They eliminate sun damage, which can have a noticeable effect on the color of your furniture and how long it lasts.
Of course, the main consideration here is whether your space allows for a retractable sunshade. These work best if you have an enclosed patio space, such as a sun porch. This is why it is so important to address your space before you begin shopping so that you know which options actually work for you.
Account for The Elements
Our next piece of advice is to account for the elements! Particularly, the ones unique to your climate. Certain sun shades are more durable than others and the last thing you want is for yours to be damaged by the weather.
Your number one consideration is the wind, especially if you plan on hanging your patio shade above your furniture. Choose something that can withstand harsh winds if you live in a climate where you see high winds regularly. Minimize these risks by ensuring that you install the shade correctly. Take extra care when hanging it and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to the letter.
Next, keep an eye on the forecast. It might be a good idea to move your entire patio set inside if there is extreme weather on the horizon. If there is potential for extreme winds, rainstorms, or in any season where you won’t be going outside to use the furniture, it’s best to bring it inside.
It Is Your Choice
For our final piece of advice, remember that you can make the choice that is best for you. As you can see from the above information, there are quite a few options when it comes to patio shades! From different functions, colors, and types of shades, there is a lot to choose from. Therefore, keep in mind that it is up to you and you only need to figure out what you need beforehand.
As you begin your search, keep in mind what it is you are actually looking for to help eliminate the stress of being overwhelmed by choice and to help simplify your decision. Try to at least narrow it down to a specific style that would work with your yard.
There are many options out there but you should choose the one best for you. We hope this guide has helped you to go about this decision-making process and to eventually make the perfect choice for your outdoor space!