Too much sun can drive you away from your outdoor space.
Use these patio shade ideas to create cozy areas on your patio, deck, or in your backyard.
Sift through our patio shade ideas to find attractive ways to create shade fordecks, porches, and patios.
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The covered area is also a great place to add extra seating and even anoutdoor TV.
Cozy Covered Patio
Jay Wilde
You dont always have to build a new structure for more shade.
Though this area is small, it has enough room for a cozy loveseat out of the sun.
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Strands of twinkling string lights makes this space even more welcoming.
Install a Pergola
A largemetal pergolaadds a bit of shade to this backyard patio.
This large structure shields a seating area with a fire pit, hot tub, and small dining area.
Credit:Jay Wilde
A simple outdoor umbrella can add a patch of shade to any area of your yard.
Screened in windows also add a little extra protection from the elements.
The white color will also reflect heat, and can help the shaded area stay cooler.
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Cozy loveseats and anoutdoor area rugmake a great space to entertain in the shade.
Thisbudget-friendly ideacan be accomplished with just a few yards of fabric.
Temporary Backyard Shade
Add temporary shade with a moveable canvas frame.
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This small awning provides just enough shade for one or twofolding chairs.
This outdoor dining area is mostly shielded from the sun by twisting leaves and vines.
The pergola also provides a space to hang string lights for outdoor dining at night.
Credit:David Tsay
Roller Shades
Matthew Benson
Acovered porchwill provide lots of shade for an outdoor seating area.
However, this porch also includes aroller shadethat can be pulled down for extra protection.
Hanging curtains can also be pulled shut for more shade or added privacy.
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This budget-friendly solution is also less permanent than a pergola or a gazebo.
Pergola with Plants
Double up on the shade your pergola provides withclimbing plants.
This structure is covered in leaves and vines that add even more shade to your yard.
Plus, it has gorgeous hanging flowers that improve the look of the pergola.
Simply placing a large umbrella on the deck adds extra shade for theseating area.
The covered porch also shields the dining area, so most of the backyard has cooling shade.
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This modern structure has a metal roof, but wood beams add a natural look.
It also provides an area to hang string lights, a porch swing, or ahanging chair.
A wood pergola covers theoutdoor grilland kitchen area.
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In some cases, a full-blown covering may not be necessary.
To build in flexibility, mix and match shade offerings with well-placed open spots.
And cold-weather spots can benefit from the principle for at least part of the year.
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One secret to making the indoor-outdoor transition smooth: adequate overhead covering.
We love the simplicity of this white umbrella paired with pretty yellow chairs and flowers.
If you have full-grown trees, stake out flat spots nearby for outdoor dining or seating areas.
Credit:Edmund Barr
If your yard lacks mature trees, consider plantingfast-growing varietiesto create a natural shade solution.
Solutions like this can be moved to different locations as needed.
By extending thepatio paversinto the porch, the homeowners established an easy flow from one space to the next.
Credit:Edmund Barr
Consider the color: White and light hues won’t absorb as much heat.
Take a cue from the white flooring, walls, and overhead covering in this outdoor space.
The all-white look serves as a simple backdrop for colorful accessories.
Credit:Paul Costello
Frequently Asked Questions
When the umbrella is not in use, you should keep it closed.
If you know it’s going to rain, you’re able to bring it inside.
You should also bring it in during the winter months or on extremely windy days.
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Placing the umbrella into the hole of a patio table is not enough.
A sturdy, heavy base is important to keep the umbrella in place.
check that you choose one that is heavy enough to withstand the conditions in your area.
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Beach umbrellas are lightweight, portable, and can be anchored in the sand.
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