15 Deck Shade Ideas For Summer Sun Protection

Decks and patios don’t provide the same sun protection as a porch. That’s why you need a couple of deck shade ideas to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements. But, the amount of shade you choose will vary based on the area you live in and your preferred design. Australia has a wide range of climates.

For example, shading around 50% of your deck or patio can be a practical choice if you live in a place with cool and comfortable temperatures. But, if you live in areas with high heat, shading up to 75% of the deck can give you the comfort you need. Here are the top ways you can add shade.

1. Add A Shade Sail

Shade sails are outdoor shades that use cloth fabric to protect the area from the sun, leaves, and debris litter. They are porous and can withstand heavy winds. Depending on the size of the shade cloth, they offer a good amount of shade and temperature control.

If you need a few deck shade ideas:

1. Add flexibility by getting a retractable shade sail.
2. Choose a portable shade sail you can take when camping or going for a picnic.
3. Feel free to add a splash of colour with a rich green, red, or blue shade sail.

2. Pergolas Above Deck

A pergola is a modern outdoor structure with columns and a roofing grid of rafters and beams. The type of shade structure you go for will vary based on the amount of coverage and style you want. An open-top pergola has an open-roof design, which is excellent for getting enough sunlight and air circulation.

But, if the living area is often impacted by harsh weather, then you need a sturdier and more durable design. That’s where a steel pergola can help. Steel pergolas are some of the most useful deck shade ideas because of their durability. But they don’t have the trendy design of open-top pergolas or vinyl pergolas. So here are some other ways to make more of your deck.

3. Add A Bistro-Style Awning

If you prefer small and intimate deck shade ideas, then a bistro-style awning can be an excellent choice. Due to its simple yet practical design, it creates a casual atmosphere where you can sit back and relax.

The awning is a roof-like cover that shelters against snow, wind, and rain. If you don’t want the awning to be constantly visible, then you can go for retractable awnings. They provide the same amount of sun protection as a non-retractable design.

4. Big Moveable Umbrellas

A fully functioning umbrella can block more than three-quarters of UV light on a sunny day. Black umbrellas are some of the most practical shade solutions, as they can block at least 90% of rays. However, other non-black variants offer lower protection. So, consider adding a cantilever patio umbrella if you want to protect your outdoor space.

5. Add Curtains

Outdoor curtains are impressive decorations that create diffused sunlight and protect against UV rays. Homeowners choose to add curtains to their shed, gazebo, pergola, or porch when they need a privacy screen and not too much protection from the wind or rain. The best outdoor curtains have mildew-resistant, UV-blocking, and weather-resistant fabrics. Olefin is a popular high-performance fabric for outdoor curtains.

6. Green It Up Over Deck

Transform your deck with hardy plants. You can add a bit of greenery to create a colourful and cool outdoor area that reflects your unique style. The kumquats are some of the most popular plants grown in Australia. They are convenient patio shade ideas because of their bushy and dense foliage. Geraniums are also popular. With over 300 varieties in Australia, geranium can suit any garden in a range of styles, shapes, and colours.

7. Timber Slats

A timber slat roof is some of the most popular deck shade ideas. The construction lets sunlight stream through for a perfect amount of backyard shade. Slats also provide a nice textural element that makes the area feel more intimate. If you want wooden slats on the side, then a cabana can be useful.

The cabana is a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary peaked-roof. It can include an aluminium frame, stainless steel hardware, and marine/awning-grade fabrics.

If you want to keep the deck lasting longer, here is a guide on how to protect your deck.

8. Super-size Brolly Over Deck

If you want some creative outdoor shade ideas, then a super-size brolly over the deck can help. This hybrid extension gives you extra room and good sun protection. It is perfect for a coffee place, balcony, garden, patio, deck, or hotel pool. Although these products lack portability, they compensate with the amount of coverage and durability.

9. Full-size Canvas Shade Over the Deck

Canvas shades are simple to clean and easy to install. What makes these great deck shade ideas is the amount of coverage, flexibility, and convenience they provide. They help cool off a hot deck and keep the outdoor area safe from the rain. If you don’t want to use the shade anymore, you can take it out and store it. The canvas only takes up a little storage space so you can tuck it in the garage.

10. A Gazebo

A gazebo can offer proper shelter for those with outdoor areas with a BBQ or an outdoor kitchen. The modern architectural design ensures that the gazebo complements the look of any outdoor room or home. These are practical shade ideas because they are low maintenance, have a sturdier build than fabric covers, and provide ultimate protection from the heat. A gazebo guards well against UV rays throughout the harsh Australian summer. Also, it can handle the rain and winds through the winter months.

11. Constructed Overhang

A roof overhang extends beyond the siding of the home. It can protect the doorways, windows, or the area right underneath the overhang from hail, rain, and snow. A well-designed overhang is more durable than fabric and slightly sturdier than a gazebo. It is one of the practical deck shade ideas because the overhang lets you add light installations, making it a fantastic structure to hang the Christmas lights.

12. Tree for Shade

Even the smallest outdoor living space can benefit from a tree. But, to freshen up the living area, it is best to opt for fast-growing shade trees that thrive in an Australian climate. Such as the Teddy bear (magnolia) tree, Tahitian limes, Forest Pansies, etc.

13. Canopy of Vines

Creatively placed vines are some of the best deck shade ideas that give you a sense of privacy. Vines can camouflage areas, hide imperfections, or give the outdoor space a softer look. In addition, they can climb in different ways and offer some deck shade. But plants don’t provide the same sun protection as other permanent structures. But they do look beautiful on a trellis.

14. Blinds

If you want temporary shade, blinds can be a wonderful choice. They add comfort and privacy while increasing the usability of the outdoor space. The blinds can also keep some of the critters away. With DIY blinds, you don’t have to worry about doing home renovations. This makes them simple and easy-to-install products.

15. Drape Reed Mats Over Your Deck

Reed mats are a breathable patio shade that can block the sun. They have a strong decorative appeal but don’t have the durability and sturdiness of other deck shade ideas. But, if you need good sunshade, these products can be a viable choice.

FAQs

What to Use as A Deck Shade on a Budget?

Umbrellas are some of the cheapest options for adding shade to your patio or deck. Especially if you go for smaller products. Shade cloths and canopies are also affordable, considering they are often temporary deck shade ideas. Each option can create a cozy, private space.

What’s The Best Material for Deck Shades?

Fabric is versatile and needs minimal maintenance. But it can’t protect you from the snow and hail. Durable deck shades like gazebos and overhangs offer better protection against the elements but require some maintenance. Finally, for a convenient, easy-to-clean floor, you can go for PVC outdoor flooring.

Do Decks Need Shade?

Absolutely. The best and easiest way to protect the deck is to use shade. Shading the deck keeps it safe from the elements. What shade option you go for will vary depending on the size of the recreational area you have. The better the shade, the more comfortable the place feels.

What Are The Reasons To Shade Your Deck?

There are many reasons to add shade to your seating areas. First, the shade improves the appearance of the outdoor space. You can use it to add a personal touch and protect the area from harmful UV rays. Finally, the decking material remains cool under the shade. For example, on a 30-degree day, treated pine decking can get as hot as 49-60 degrees Celsius without shade. While with composite decking, the heat can range from 54-65 degrees.