Do you love hosting outdoor barbecues or just like being outside to enjoy the warmer weather? If you love the summer temperatures but you want to stay in the shade as much as you can, it is possible to do both. Here are three ways to stay in the shade while having some outdoor summer fun.
Aluminum Shades
If you love hanging out on the patio during the warm summer months, but you need something bigger than just an umbrella to help protect yourself from the sun, an aluminum shade is a great choice. Aluminum shades usually come pre-engineered or can be custom designed. Some advantages aluminum shades have to offer include:
- They can support screen enclosures
- They won't attract termites
- They can support ceiling fans
- They are rust-resistant
If you choose to go with an aluminum shade, some also offer the option to add an integrated gutter with a leaf guard, and also can include skylights and a retractable screen.
Retractable Roof Systems
There are many different kinds of retractable roof systems available for homeowners, one of which is also known as a retractable canopy. This type of retractable roof system works great for decks, patios, gazebos, and garden areas. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and usually get fitted under pergolas and trellises made out of vinyl or wood. Some advantages they have to offer include:
- They are easy to winterize
- They can be adapted to different curvatures
- They are easy to maintain
Outdoor retractable fabric shades are another type of retractable roof system that can be used on decks and patios to protect you from the sun and help to keep bugs and bird droppings at bay.
Exterior Window Shades
If you just want a shade that you can pull down to keep the sun out and to maintain privacy while hanging out on your deck, an exterior window shade is a great solution. Besides offering protection from the weather, exterior window shades also help to keep out insects, and can help to block out unwanted noise. They work either manually or by motorization. If you still want to see what's going on outside, you can choose a transparent solar shade or a clear vinyl shade.
Besides working well for being outdoors, exterior window shades can also protect your home from the harmful effects of the sun while helping you to save money on your energy bill.