Here’s How to Throw Some Shade on Your Yard

Chilling in the backyard is one of summer’s favourite pastimes. But dining and lounging outdoors can be a challenge in the midday sun. Aside from the discomfort, it can also damage your skin and fade your patio furniture. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a custom DIY project, here’s some great options for shading your yard and protecting your people and pets.

Pop Up A Patio Umbrella

A patio umbrella is a simple way to get out of the sun's bright rays. Consider a basic patio umbrella with a straight pole and crank to raise and lower the cover. The weighted base allows it to stand on its own wherever you want it or be inserted into the centre hole of an outdoor dining table. Some models also have a tilt mechanism so you can change the angle of the cover to follow the shifting sun.

Offset Umbrella

An offset patio umbrella features a side support pole with heavily weighted base to prevent the umbrella from tipping. The real benefit here is that it provides shade to area without the base and pole getting in the way. This makes it ideal for use with outdoor dining sets and patio furniture. The canopy can be raised, lowered or tilted to ensure continuous shade as the sun moves across the sky. Many models also feature rotation mechanism to offer 360 degrees of coverage.

Build a Breezy Pergola

A pergola is an ideal structure for shading sitting areas in your yard or garden. Vertical posts and cross beams support open slats at the top allowing air to freely circulate. It makes for an attractive, low-maintenance addition to your yard or patio. It’s also a great choice if you want filtered light or partial shade. The overhead slats won’t completely block the sun but climbing plants or vines can offer extra shade. You can also add slats or outdoor drapery to one or more of the walls for additional protection, and covers are available to provide even more shade.

Get a Great Backyard Gazebo

A stylish complement to any space, a gazebo provides a wonderful space for reading, dining, relaxing or other activities. As a long-time favourite of outdoor décor enthusiasts, there are now many different styles and configurations from which to choose. For a traditional look consider a classic wood gazebo. These DIY gazebo projects are available in octagon or square designs, with options ranging from pressure-treated to spruce and cedar. For a style that's more modern, opt for an easy-to-assemble gazebo kit. Soft top and steel top models are available, both with handy curtains to create a partial or full enclosure. You can also find retractable gazebos that can quickly double in size, and BBQ gazebos with two-tiered tops for ventilation. Optional mosquito netting will keep the bugs out, and LED lights keep the party going into the evening.

Block Out UV with a Vine Covered Trellis or Arbour

Fast-growing vines are another great shade option for decks, patios and other outdoor spaces. The cool, leafy shade brings a welcome respite from the hot summer sun, and some even have attractive blooms. A DIY trellis or arbour package can turn a plain backyard space into a beautiful sitting area. Take care to position your trellis or arbour so the vines cast shade where it’s most needed. Good shady vine options include ivy, clematis, morning glories, honeysuckle, Virginia creeper, jasmine, edible grapes or trumpet vines. Wisteria has heavy wooded stems so use it only on sturdier structures.

Pitch a Temporary Sun Shelter

A sun shelter can provide quick and easy refuge from both the sun and the rain. Canopy sizes vary, but you can find a shelter that allows plenty of room for small parties or gatherings. Look for a model with reinforced framing to withstand stronger winds. That said, these units are designed for fast set up and take down if the weather gets too bad.

There’s no shortage of options for shading your yard. Whether permanent or temporary, you’re sure to find solutions that meet your shade requirements and your budget. Bring on the summer!