Add more shade to your backyard

6 Ways to Add More Shade in Your Backyard

7 min read

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Looking for ways to add more shade to your backyard? You’re in luck. There are a few different ways to achieve this in your outdoor space including trees, umbrellas, and pergolas. Shade can help protect you from the sun’s harmful rays and can also make your backyard feel cooler on hot days. Additional shade can also create a more comfortable and inviting outdoor space.

Choosing the right option for your backyard will depend on your needs and preferences. Keep reading to learn more about adding shade in your backyard.

1. Install a pergola

A pergola is a great way to add more shade to your backyard. It can provide you with a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, while also providing some much-needed protection from the sun. This type of structure also serves as a beautiful focal point in your backyard, so you can create an outdoor living space that provides both shade and style.

Install a Pergola for more shade

If you’re considering adding a pergola to your backyard, there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s important to consider the size of your backyard and the amount of shade you need. Whether it’s freestanding or attached to your house, a pergola can be as small or large as you like – make sure it will be the right size for your space. Consider the way you want to use the space, whether it’s for dining, entertaining or playing, and the areas you want to keep shaded; this will help you design the perfect pergola for your backyard.  

Modern Pergola

From traditional to modern, there are also many different pergola styles available, so you can pick a design to complement your home.

Pergolas

2. Plant trees and shrubs

Trees and shrubs are nature’s way of providing shade. If you have the space, consider planting a few trees or shrubs around the perimeter of your yard. Not only will they provide shade, but they’ll also help cool the air and add a beautiful touch of green to your backyard.

Plant trees and shrubs for more shade

Trees can provide both dappled shade and full shade, depending on their size and canopy. Some great trees for adding shade include maple, oak, elm and birch as they are fast-growing and will provide more coverage more quickly. Shrubs, on the other hand, can be planted underneath trees or in areas where you need a little extra coverage. Some great shrubs for providing shade include rhododendrons, azaleas and hydrangeas.

Another great way to add shade, particularly in smaller backyards, is to utilise climbing plants on a trellis or even on pre-existing structures such as a pergola. Climbing plants can create a green wall or canopy for your outdoor space and can be measured to best suit your backyard. Plants that are ideal for espalier growth include jasmine, bougainvillea, and camellias.

Planting trees, shrubs and plants are great ways to add shade and beauty to your backyard.

3. Install outdoor blinds

If you have a deck or patio, consider installing outdoor blinds to create more shade. Outdoor blinds are a great option if you want to be able to control the amount of sun and shade in your outdoor space. Simply lower your blinds on those hot summer days to keep your outdoor space shaded and cool. This will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space in comfort when entertaining or relaxing. Plus, they add a touch of style and privacy to your backyard.

Install outdoor blinds for more shade

For maximum UV protection, opt for shade blinds. Made from durable materials, shade blinds are perfect for those hot summer days as they offer much needed protection against the harsh weather conditions. You can enjoy peace of mind when your kids play outside knowing they will be in a cool, shaded area. They’re easy to operate so you can adjust them as needed to get just the right amount of sun protection or privacy.

Stylish outdoor blinds

If you’re looking for a way to add more shade to your backyard or patio, outdoor blinds may be the perfect solution. With a variety of styles available, you can find a colour combination and design to suit your needs.

Outdoor Blinds

4. Put up a patio umbrella

A patio umbrella is another effective option to add more shade to your backyard. Patio umbrellas can be beneficial in many ways, as they protect you from the sun’s harmful rays and give you a cool place to enjoy your backyard without getting sunburned.

Put up a patio umbrella to add shade

A temporary structure like a patio umbrella can be placed either in the ground or on a table, so you can adjust them to get the perfect amount of shade. If you’re looking for a less permanent way to enjoy your backyard without getting sunburned, a patio umbrella is a great option.

5. Hang curtains

Curtains are a great option if you want to create a shady spot to relax or entertain in your backyard. Curtains can provide an instant and easy way to create shade, without having to build anything permanent. Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to source.

Hang curtains to add shade

Curtains can be hung from a pergola, gazebo, and other structures, or even from trees or poles. Just make sure that the curtains are made from a weather-resistant material, so they’ll withstand the elements. Further, be sure to measure the space you want to cover so you can get curtains that are the right size.

6. Invest in shade sails

Shade sails are a perfect way to add extra protection from the sun. They are also an attractive addition to any outdoor space and are easy to set up and take down. Whether you are relaxing in your hammock or entertaining guests, shade sails are sure to make your backyard more enjoyable.

When selecting the location for your shade sail, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight that the area receives. The ideal location for a shade sail is in an open space that receives direct sunlight for most of the day. So be sure to consider the amount of sun exposure and wind the area receives when selecting a shade sail.

Shade sails come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit the area you are trying to cover.

No matter which option you choose, adding more shade to your backyard can be a great way to improve your outdoor living space during the hot summer months. If you’re interested in installing a Pergola or Outdoor Blinds, we can help you. Simply fill out the free measure and quote form below to get your outdoor project started.

Australian Outdoor Living is passionate about helping people bring their backyard dreams to life. We offer a range of products, including:

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