Summer is the hottest time of year and it is back again in full force. If you are an Arizona native like us, you know that we get some of the hottest recorded temperatures in the United States. If you aren’t a local, then you should know that Arizona’s daily temperature was an average of 110 degrees Fahrenheit last summer, with highs reaching into the 120’s. Now that’s hot!
The majority of people have been and will be spending their summer at home this year, not only to beat the heat, but also to beat the coronavirus pandemic. If you plan to enjoy your outdoor patio space this summer (and you should), you will need to plan properly for your patio shade needs. Nothing helps you enjoy the outdoors and escape the extreme heat better than relaxing in the shade.
There are several options for shading your patio from the sun, from the classic umbrella to fancy-custom, electric, retractable awnings. Let’s take a look at what is available and what you should consider when choosing an outdoor patio shade.
Types of Patio Shades
Three main categories of patio shades need to be considered when making your decision. There are umbrellas, awnings and outdoor blinds, all of which can protect you from the sun in their own way. Let’s break them down.
Patio Umbrellas
Umbrellas are the quintessential solution for your patio shade needs. Patio umbrellas come in all shapes and sizes and have varying levels of functionality depending on the style. They are also one of the more affordable solutions and add a nice visual element to your outdoor patio design.
Patio umbrellas are often made with aluminum, but many styles come in exotic woods as well. The color and style options for your umbrella fabrics are endless, but when choosing the right umbrella for your patio, you should prioritize functionality over design. There are three main types of umbrellas to choose from: tilting, wood market, and cantilever.
Tilting Patio Umbrellas
This style of umbrella allows the user to tilt the upper half of the umbrella toward the sun in order to create shade at the right angle. This allows you to strategically move the shade where you are sitting as the sun travels. There are auto-tilting umbrellas and button-based models, but they both ultimately serve the same purpose. These umbrellas are often made with aluminum and feature a weather-resistant fabric. If you’re looking to avoid the sun’s direct rays, this is the right type of umbrella for you.
Wood Market Patio Umbrellas
The Wood Market style of umbrella is (as the name implies) made of a quality wood. This style of umbrella stands up to harsh weather conditions beautifully and has a longer lifespan than most aluminum models. Most wood market umbrellas do not feature a tilting function and are therefore less flexible to the changing location of the sun throughout the day. This style is often seen in public restaurants and in corporate office spaces, so if that style speaks to you, these patio umbrellas could be your answer.
Cantilever Patio Umbrellas
Cantilever patio umbrellas, also known as an offset or side pole umbrella, provide versatility, form, and function to your outdoor living space. These umbrellas are made from aluminum and feature a cover that is offset from the base of the umbrella stand. They are suspended in the air and supported by a freestanding pole on the side of an outdoor patio area instead of the middle. Cantilever patio umbrellas are very low profile and stay out of the way of other patio furniture. If you have a lot of outdoor patio furniture, this umbrella might be your best option.
Patio Umbrella Accessories
Once you have chosen the style of patio umbrella that is perfect for your outdoor space, you’ll need to consider a few accessory options. Most importantly, you’ll need to pick the proper umbrella base (stand) for your unit. You want the base to add as much elegance and functionality as the umbrella itself.
Patio Umbrella Bases
When choosing the right base for your umbrella, consider the design and the weight of the base. Matching your umbrella to the stand design is nice, but more importantly the stand needs to be able to support the umbrella upright, even during windy weather conditions. Look for a stand that is uncomfortably heavy to lift on your own.
Stands often come in brass, concrete (usually with an aluminum shell), and galvanized steel. Also consider if you plan to move your umbrella to different parts of your patio. If so, you might want to look for a base that has wheels built in.
Patio Umbrella Lighting
Umbrella lighting is the newest trend in patio lighting. Several popular umbrella designs feature built-in ring LED lighting at the top of the umbrella to illuminate your shady space. Newer models have even begun to incorporate Bluetooth speaker systems into the design so you can stay shaded and illuminated, all while relaxing to your favorite tunes. There are also models that are sold separately and can be added to most umbrella designs.
Awnings
Awnings, sometimes known as an “overhang,” are coverings that are attached to an exterior outdoor wall. In terms of your outdoor patio, these can be elaborate electronic contraptions, or something as simple as wooden slats used to break up the direct sunlight.
Simple Awnings
In the past, awnings used to be simple fixed structures above your patio (often made out of wood) that offered shade at certain parts of the day. Some models simply diffuse the light (and not very well). Nowadays, awnings are often made of aluminum and covered with fabric and are sometimes retractable. These are generally custom made for your outdoor patio and require the use of a contractor or company who specializes in custom retractable awnings, such as All American Outdoor Living.
Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings offer widespread UV protection, they help to protect your outdoor furnishings, and they are a great way to keep your outdoor view of nature while still blocking out the sun. When selecting a manufacturer for your retractable awning, look for someone that offers Sunbrella fabrics and optional motion detection systems. Make sure that every product is TUV tested before delivery.
Outdoor Patio Blinds
Also known as Exterior Window Shades, patio blinds work to diffuse the direct sunlight coming into your patio area. They also help weatherize your outdoor patio by protecting your outdoor furnishings from constant, direct sunlight. Outdoor blinds are usually retractable so you can roll them up and enjoy the sun when you feel like it.
They are also great for reducing the glare of the sun, helping to protect your eyes. With so many people working from home these days, patio blinds have exploded in popularity. Consider these if you plan to build an outdoor patio office while working from home.
When hiring a company to custom make your outdoor blinds, look for designs that feature magnetic weights and cable guidance systems for superior wind stability. Also look for designs that can seal up enough to keep out insects, critters and dirt if so desired. The name of the game for patio blinds is customization, so if you have an idea, it can probably be done.
Relaxing in the Shade
Once you have chosen your preferred method for shading your patio, it’s time to relax under that shade in style. Here are some options for maximizing your newly shaded patio space.
Daybeds
Daybeds are the ultimate in modern-day patio luxury. These outdoor furniture pieces are perfect for lounging around the pool, reclining with a book or cuddling up with your loved ones. When choosing a daybed for your patio, look for models that are made with a strong and durable fabric. Make sure the design is entirely weather resistant and is easy to clean. Bonus points if the bed is made of a water-resistant material or that is quick-drying.
Outdoor Couches and Coffee Tables
A more classic option for utilizing your newly shaded patio space is an outdoor couch, or an outdoor couch and coffee table set. Recreate your indoor paradise outside with furniture that maintains its bold good looks, while keeping you extremely comfortable. Choose from different exotic woods, granite, cocoa, teak, and more. If wood isn’t your style choose something with a more modern style. Set up a couch with adjoining chairs around a coffee table so the whole family can gather around for an outdoor meal or cocktail.
Beat the Heat
Now, probably more than ever, is the best time to upgrade your outdoor patio space. Whether you get an umbrella or an awning, escaping the summer sun has never been easier. Avoid the Arizona summer heat by staying outside and out of the sun with the help of All American Outdoor Living. Let our experts guide your decisions and help customize the perfect solutions for your outdoor patio space.