How to Add Shade to a Deck or Patio

Shippensburg homeowners eagerly await the arrival of the warm weather so they can cast off the remnants of cabin fever and bask in the sunshine. However, as summer nears its dog days, the same sun homeowners once coveted can contribute to uncomfortable conditions in outdoor entertaining spaces.

Meteorologists at WHAS11 in Kentucky took to their neighborhoods in July 2020 to test just how hot surfaces can get in the sun during peak daytime temperatures. Concrete sitting in the sun almost all day reached a temperature of 134.7 F, while the same concrete in the shade clocked in at just under 80 F. When air temperatures are around 90 F, unshaded concrete and asphalt can be 125 F and 140 F, respectively. While wood decking may not be as hot as asphalt and concrete, it still can get steamy underfoot.

Shippensburg homeowners who want to be able to enjoy their outdoor spaces in an array of temperatures can think about investing in shade solutions. Sun-blocking ideas like awnings, shade trees and large umbrellas can help people enjoy their yards all day long.

Canopy: A patio canopy is typically a freestanding unit that can be installed over a patio or a deck. Some people prefer to bolt it down so it will not be knocked over in windy conditions. The fabric on the canopy can be removed during the off-season, helping to improve its longevity.

Awning: Awnings may be stationary or retractable. Many are installed directly onto a home and can cast shade on specific areas of outdoor entertaining spaces.

Shade sail: Similar to an awning but a bit less structurally rigid, shade sails are large pieces of triangular fabric installed over areas of a patio, pool or landscape, according to The Family Handyman. Shade sails are light and airy and can be customized.

Trees: A natural way to increase shade in a yard is to plant more shade trees. If sun glare is an issue all year long, and it’s not just the heat of the sun that is troublesome, think about planting evergreen trees. Deciduous cousins will drop their leaves in fall and only be effective during the warm weather.

Patio umbrellas: Many umbrellas start at around $25. Umbrellas can be paired with patio tables, while stationary cantilever umbrellas sit out of the way on their own heavy-duty stands. A cantilever umbrella tends to provide more shade than patio table umbrellas.

Curtains: Homeowners can block sunlight outdoors the way they do inside, offers MSN. Hang curtains from the sides of canopies or between posts on a deck to provide shade and cozy spaces.

Shade is in high demand when the sun is hot. Options abound for making outdoor areas more comfortable in Shippensburg.

Ways to Expand Outdoor Living Spaces

Homeowners looking to add more space to their homes in Chambersburg & Shippensburg, PA do not necessarily need to make major renovations. They simply have to see the possibilities in outdoor living spaces.

Outdoor living spaces are coveted niches in a home. The American Home Furnishings Alliance says more than 70 percent of American households have outdoor living spaces, and nearly 70 percent of people use these spaces at least once per week in-season. Furthermore, homeowners are increasingly interested in enhancing these spaces to make them more usable and comfortable.

A recent survey from the online home design and remodeling resource Houzz found that more than 4,500 users were planning a landscape update. In addition, 56 percent of homeowners surveyed were making updates to improve their yards for entertaining. The following are just a few ways to expand your outdoor living space.

Patios

Patios can increase the value of your home and extend your living space to help make your home seem larger. Having a patio installed at your home in Chambersburg & Shippensburg, PA can also help you entertain friends and family more with added space for picnics and barbecues. You can dress up your patio with outdoor furniture and decor to create the ideal space for guests. Patios are also low maintenance and farely easy to keep clean. Locust Ridge Landscape, LLC uses only the highest quality materials for patio installations so you can rest easy that your new patio will withstand the elements and last for years to come.

Pergolas

Pergolas are an excellent way to improve your outdoor living experience in Chambersburg & Shippensburg, PA. Pergolas not only add visual appeal to your deck or patio, but add a private area for dining and relaxation. Pergolas can also offer additional garden space and shade during the spring and summer months. Locust Ridge Landscape, LLC can install the perfect pergola for your home and outdoor living space. We will work with you to determine the best style to suit your space and make the most of your new pergola.

Fire Pits

Adding a fire pit to your yard or patio is an ideal way to extend your outdoor season by providing an excellent heat source and space to gather with family and friends. A fire pit can add a wonderful ambience to your back yard and enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor living space. Not only is a fire pit an excellent source of heat and light, but can also be used for cooking and entertaining.

There are many ways to build or expand your outdoor living space in Chambersburg & Shippensburg, PA. Contact Locust Ridge Landscape, LLC for a free consultation to discuss your ideas and make your project a reality.