An outdoor deck can be a great way to get the most out of your backyard. Not only does it add some square footage, but it can also add value to your home.
When the sun is shining, there is nothing better than sitting out on your deck. This is especially true if you have an umbrella or some sort of shade to help keep you cool.
However, problems can arise if you live in a windy area.
When the wind is blowing, the last thing you want to deal with is an umbrella flying away. The same goes for different sun shades and options you have for shade on your deck.
Fortunately, there are some things you can use to get shade and protect yourself from the wind. Plus, you won’t have to be worried about these shade ideas blowing away.
In this article, we have laid out 5 deck shade ideas for windy areas. By considering all your options, you can come up with one that will work best for your deck.
Getting the right shade apparatus for your deck is essential, especially if you live in a windy climate. Some of the best shade ideas for windy areas include:
- A built-in pergola
- Attached awning
- Outdoor curtain fixture
- Umbrella with a heavy base
- Plant trees
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Benefits of Shade Ideas for Windy Areas
If you have a deck, you know how nice it can be to sit outside and enjoy a drink. However, in the summertime, the heat and sunshine can be very uncomfortable.
One of the biggest benefits of shade for your deck is comfort. If you can feel content out on your deck, you will be much more likely to use it often.
Having a good amount of shade can also improve your health. Too much sun is never a good idea and if you have good shade, you can safely lay out.
By making sure that your shade doesn’t blow away, you can always have a space to relax.
Pergola
One of the best deck shade ideas for windy areas is a pergola.
Pergolas are built into the deck and will be bolted down. They are also incredibly heavy, so you can be certain that the wind won’t be an issue.
One of the downsides of a pergola is that they will be more expensive than other solutions. This is a rather large project and you will need to do some construction.
However, pergolas can be a great addition to your deck and come in all kinds of sizes and styles. If you want the most out of your shade, this is a great option.
Awning
An awning that is attached to the house is another great option for shade on your deck.
If the awning has a rack attachment, you won’t have to worry about it blowing away. It will be secured to the side of your home and will stay put no matter what.
Awnings can also be retractable, so you can pull them in if the wind starts to kick up.
One of the great things about awnings is that they come in all kinds of colors. If you want to add a touch of style to your deck, this is a great way to do it.
Awnings can act as a great accent piece and also provide excellent shade.
Outdoor Curtains
Outdoor curtains are a wonderful addition to any deck and are available in all kinds of styles. If the curtain assembly is bolted down to your deck, you can rest easy knowing it will stay put.
Outdoor curtain assemblies act as a small room that is completely shaded on your deck.
These are a great option if you are looking for something that offers complete protection. You can even use them in the rain since they usually have a roof as well.
These can also be a great way to add a pop of color, just like with the awning option.
Heavy Umbrella
Most people think of an umbrella when they think of shade ideas for a deck. However, umbrellas can also catch the wind and easily blow away.
If you have a heavy enough base, you can be sure that your umbrella will stay put.
Most outdoor umbrellas are made to withstand fairly heavy winds. As long as you make sure to close it up when the wind gets very strong, you won’t have any issues.
Umbrella bases can be filled with sand or water to add extra weight. With enough preparation, this is a perfect solution.
Trees
While this will not be an instantaneous solution, planting trees is a great way to get some shade.
Trees have so many benefits beyond simply blocking the sun. They also beautify your yard and provide so much to the ecosystem.
If you want a more instant solution, you can buy adolescent trees and plant them. This will require an experienced arborist but it can get you the shade you want right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are shade sails worth it?
Shade sails can be a great way to add some sun protection to your home. However, they will most likely not work in windy climates.
Shade sails will catch the wind very easily and can fly away if not properly secured.
How do I block the wind on my patio?
One of the best ways to block the wind on your patio is to put up a wind barrier. This can be wood or metal and can be installed by a professional contractor.
Most of the solutions we outlined above will also block the wind to some degree.
Do screens block wind?
Unfortunately, screens are not very good at blocking the wind. They can help with shade and keep mosquitoes out, but they will not keep wind away.
If you want to keep the wind from getting on your patio, enclosing it is your best bet.
Conclusion
If you live in a windy area, you know how frustrating it can be. Fortunately, there are options for shade that can stay put, even in the windiest climates.
By trying some of the solutions above, you can enjoy your patio to the fullest.
