In the sunny California climate, everyone is looking for a slice of shade. Being able to retreat from the sun yet still be outdoors is a necessary aspect of backyard space. When designing your perfect West Hollywood backyard, it is essential to consider adding in some shade-providing structures. Here are some of the benefits of patio cover shade!
The Benefits of Patio Cover Shade
1. Sun Damage
Given enough time, the sun can damage everything. Building an open patio cover can protect your outdoor furniture from wearing down from direct sunlight and the subsequent peeling, flaking, and breakage. Not to mention it can help prevent sun damage on human skin, which is a significant health hazard!
2. A Place to Cool Off
Patio covers reflect and redirect the sunshine, keeping your patio cool. This gives you, your family, your guests, and your pets the perfect place to retreat when the direct sunlight becomes too warm. Additionally, patio cover shade can impact your home’s internal temperature, lowering it a substantial amount. This could potentially decrease the strain on your AC units and lower your power bills.
3. Increases Home Value
Landscaping and functional backyard designs can increase the value of your home. Adding a hardscape, such as an open patio cover, can be a distinguished investment when it comes time to resell your house. Buyers will enjoy the idea of unlimited outdoor time protected from the harsh rays of the sun just as much as you!
4. Weather Protection
Patio cover shade protects your furniture, outdoor kitchen, or anything else under its eaves from all the elements – sun, rain, wind, heat, and more. Not only does it protect your items, but patio covers extend the lifespan of your deck, saving you from having to repaint or refurbish it with as much frequency.
5. Year-Round Enjoyment
Do you sometimes want to cook in the rain or have cocktails al fresco on a windy evening? With a patio cover, you can enjoy your outdoor space in any weather. It doesn’t matter if the sun is on full blast or if it is raining cats and dogs. No matter the season, covering your patio will extend its versatility and usability.
What can I use for patio cover shade?
The most common method for adding shade to one’s backyard is with a patio cover or pergola. Patio covers and pergolas come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you can even install remote-controlled louvered roofs that are customizable. One option is to have slats that can rotate up to 180 degrees, allowing you to control sunlight and airflow at the push of a button. Additionally, some homeowners utilize outdoor curtains, canopies, extra-large umbrellas, awnings, shades, and even gazebos to get that much-needed shade into their outdoor space.
What is the best covering for a patio?
As we mentioned above, there are various types of structures and shading materials one can mix and match to find their ideal shade quantity and aesthetic. For those who want full shade, we recommend a solid-roof pergola. Homeowners who want a mixture of sun and shade, a loosely woven trellised patio cover or remote-controlled slat patio cover is ideal. For those who want the beauty and versatility of fabric may want to incorporate outdoor shades, curtains, or simple umbrellas.
Do covered patios block light?
Whether one considers it a perk or a con, covered (shaded) patio covers will block light from entering the house if placed in front of key windows. For some homeowners, this will be an added bonus as it could cut energy costs during the summer and prevent the sun from damaging internal furniture and wares. However, if your primary access to sunlight is through a specific window, a patio cover may make your home uncomfortably dark. Prior to installing a patio cover, we recommend speaking with a design specialist to understand how it will affect the internal aspects of your home as well as your overall outdoor design.
Are patio sun shades worth it?
So you have a solid patio cover protecting you from the harshest rays of the day, but as the sun rises or sets, it can still be quite bright! If you spend many early mornings or late afternoons on your patio, you may become annoyed with the sun glaring in your eyes. While sunglasses can help, patio sun shades are next level! Sun shades added to the eaves of your shade structure allow you to control how much sun shines on your face. Whether manual or automatic, you can raise or lower the shades to block the sun as you see fit. Not only will this protect your eyes from the glare and your skin from UV light, but it will protect your furniture and items from sun damage as well. Plus, sun shades come in a variety of opacities, allowing you to keep your beautiful view intact even when the shades are pulled down.
Add Patio Cover Shade with Design Scapes
The benefits of patio cover shade are numerous! Not only will the added protection encourage you and your family to spend more time outside, but it will add value to your home when it comes time to sell. Are you ready to enjoy all the benefits a patio cover has to offer? To learn more about patio cover installation, give us a call today for a consultation! Curious as to what other services we provide? Design Scapes is your solution to any outdoor design and build project. For a full list of our services, click HERE!
