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If your deck is exposed to direct sunlight, the glaring heat and blinding light probably force you inside during the day, limiting the time you can spend on the deck. The sun can also damage your skin and make the decking too hot to walk on barefoot.
But you don't have to let the sun dictate when you use your deck. This article will show you shade solutions for every need and every budget. We'll tell you about large canopy and awning systems that shade all or most of your deck; do-it-yourself shade alternatives; and simpler, lower-cost solutions for small areas. These sun blockers keep your deck cooler and screen out harmful ultraviolet rays.
Canopy awnings block sun and rain
Pros: Canopy awnings are good for full
shading of compact decks or partial shading
of larger decks. The shade cloth is
resistant to tears and won't sag. The fabric and structure can withstand rain, hail and
strong winds (although the company recommends
removing the shade cloth if a
hurricane is imminent). Since it's a permanent
structure that doesn't retract, the
canopy has no moving parts that can jam
or break.
Cons: Unlike retractable options, canopy awnings don't offer a convenient way to let in the sun (removing the fabric requires two people and takes a few minutes). Also, the columns may not blend well with the deck style and can become obstructions on some deck layouts.
Installation: If you have a concrete patio or a wood deck, you can easily bolt the framework down. On less-solid surfaces, such as a paver patio, you'll have to pour concrete bases first. Company-certified installers are available in some areas of the country. They charge about $250.
Cost: $1,160 to $1,250, depending on size and color preferences. (Three sizes are available: 10 x 12, 10 x 14 and 10 x 16 ft.)
TricoShade, (866) 590-8636.
www.velacanopies.com
Build your own shade structure
Pros: Retractable awnings provide
instant shade or quickly roll up when you
don't need them. You don't have to take
them down - no storage hassles. They
don't require you to build a permanent
structure on the deck. Attach vertical
screens to the extended awning to block
the sun when it's low in the sky.
Cons: Retractable awnings are up to 20 ft. wide but only extend about 10 ft., so they won't completely shade most decks. Also, strong winds can damage the awning framework if you leave the awnings open in strong winds (manufacturers recommend closing them when not in use).
Installation: Professional installation costs $200 to $300. While we don't recommend this as a do-it-yourself project for novices, a homeowner with basic carpentry skills could complete the job with a helper (the awnings are too heavy to set in place by yourself). The awning can be installed on any type of siding. The brackets must be mounted to framing members to support the weight of the awning. You'll need the appropriate clearance between the decking and the eave, gutter or overhang (usually a minimum of about 7 ft.), and clearance from light fixtures and electrical outlets.
Cost: A 10-ft.-wide awning that extends 9 ft. starts at $580. Larger sizes and motorized models cost more, with an 18-ft. motorized awning that extends 10 ft. 2 in. costing $1,800.SunSetter, (800) 876-2340.
www.sunsetter.com
Durasol, (877) 761-9051.
www.durasol.com
Low-Cost Option
Pros: With structures up to 21 ft. long and
nearly 27 ft. wide, the systems will cover
almost any size deck. Each canopy is
retractable, and it's the only system that
allows the canopies to be partially retracted,
giving you more control over your
shade. More than 40 fabric colors are
available to match your home's decor.
Block sun (and increase privacy) along the
sides by fastening vertical blinds to the
overhead structure.
Cons: You can install the canopies on existing decks, but the support posts may not look consistent with your current decking materials and could become obstructions. The overhead structure and posts stay in place even when the canopy is retracted.
Installation: Although retractable canopies are preassembled (precut and predrilled), installation is not for a beginning do-it-yourselfer. Brackets are mounted to your siding and the posts to your decking, and you need to measure accurately before ordering the parts. But if you have some carpentry skills, you should be able to handle the job. Otherwise, hire a professional installer recommended by the manufacturer. Expect to pay at least $350 for installation.
Cost: A 10-ft.-long by 10-ft.-8-in.-wide aluminum structure with two canopies starts at $1,500. Vinyl systems cost slightly more. You can also buy only the canopy system and build your own wooden structure to support it.
ShadeTree, (800) 894-3801.
www.shadetreecanopies.com
Shade with trees and plants
For even more shade, plant
trees in the ground around the
deck. Maple trees are one good
choice because they have dense
foliage for blocking the sun and
are fast growing, so you won't
have to wait 20 to 30 years to reap
the benefits. Ask about other
choices at a local nursery. In many
ways, trees are the best shade
system because they can shade
large areas, provide privacy and
beautify your yard. The downside
is you have to wait several years
for results. A 1/2-in.- to 1-in.-
diameter tree costs about $100.
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