Cool off with these 12 backyard shade ideas
By Francesca Singer•Last updated May 6, 2022
Last updated May 6, 2022
Finally, warm days have arrived and it’s time for you to enjoy your backyard. However, there’s just too much sun for you to enjoy long periods outside. It can be unbearably hot to spend more than 20 minutes on your uncovered deck or patio.
If getting sunburned isn’t your idea of a relaxing time, it’s time to think about ways you can add more shade to your backyard. Fortunately, you don't have to be a DIY wizard to create a shady reprieve.
So, how do you add shade to your backyard? It depends on where you need shade, how much shade you want and what kind of budget you’re working with. We've broken it down into patio, deck and pool shade ideas to keep you cool this summer.
Deck and patio shade ideas
Even a well-designed patio or deck can get too much sun at certain times of day. Staying cool in your yard is easy with any number of shade ideas. Patio and deck shades come in all shapes, sizes, and prices.
Speaking of costs, keep this in mind: there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to add shade to your deck and patio if you're willing to take on a DIY project. For each of these shade ideas, there are inexpensive routes and high-budget options.
1. Install a patio awning
If you only want shade during peak heat, consider a retractable awning. Whenever the sun gets too hot, swing the covering out and enjoy a welcome reprieve. One of the best parts? There are no feet or supports involved, so you keep all the space underneath to sit, play, or set up a food and drink station.
2. Put up sail shades
Modern, minimalist, and affordable, sail shades are triangular or rectangular fabric shades that can be easily attached to the side of your house, trees, or posts. They’re versatile, attractive, and can be layered for more coverage. Multiple sails can be arranged to cover large areas. For professional installation help, call a skilled installer near you.
3. Plant shade trees
Okay, admittedly this one takes a few years. But shade trees can add long-term value to your home, even if you need another shade idea until they grow tall enough. Plant a fast-growing species if you can’t wait, but avoid weak-wooded species — especially if you plant close to the house.
Do your research to make sure you choose a tree that fits your needs. Some trees are messy, and others are high maintenance. Also consider planting native trees. If you need help choosing the right tree and planting it properly, you can always consult an arborist near you.
4. Add rolling sunshades
The motorized version of this shade can cost thousands of dollars, but manual rolling screens are available at a fraction of the cost. Like awnings, these shades are retractable, so you can soak up all the sun when you want it.
Using rolling shades to block out harsh west sun is another simple shade idea. Add bamboo rolling shades to the edge of a pergola or patio roof for a mobile shade solution.
Pro tip: For extra coolness when sitting on your patio or deck, consider installing a fan. Contact a fan installation pro to see if your covered patio can accommodate an outdoor ceiling fan.
5. Build a pergola
A well-built pergola is a beautiful, permanent shade structure. While it’s not the cheapest option, it will add value to your home. A pergola doesn't always offer full shade — it depends on the spacing and size of the beams — so homeowners sometimes add a second layer of shade. For example, outdoor fabric can be draped over a pergola to cover both the top and sides. Curtains can be added to create a private or bug-free environment. Or try planting lush fruiting or flowering vines to add more shade.
For avid DIYers, this is a great multi-weekend project. For the rest of us, contacting a professional builder will save a lot of time and hassle.
6. Install a gazebo or pavilion
It sounds grand and very expensive, but the pavilion we're talking about is a metal gazebo-type structure. These range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, but they’re one of the most stylish backyard shade ideas. Pavilions come in simple, modern styles or in ornate wrought iron designs. Gazebo-style pavilions may be built out of wood with a metal or shingle roof.
If you're handy, you may be able to install a pavilion on your own. If you want to make sure it's installed properly, find a gazebo installation pro to get the job done right.
Pool shade ideas
Staying cool by the swimming pool is a top priority during the hottest days of summer. It also lets guests spend more time outside and less time tracking water into the house. From low-key to high-luxury, there’s a shade idea for every pool and budget.
7. Construct a resort-style cabana
A cabana gives swimmers a poolside area where they can relax, change clothes, and grab a snack. It adds a sense of privacy, elegance, and luxury to your backyard, no matter how simple or complex it is. Choose one with a comfortable lounging surface, solid overhead cover, and adjustable curtains. Cabanas can be simple DIY wood structures covered in bamboo shades. Or they can be elegant, permanent builds complete with pillars and hard-wired lighting.
8. Set up a few fabric umbrellas
A large fabric umbrella can offer the deep shade you need to enjoy your outdoor space and pool during the hottest parts of the day. And there are plenty of options. You can go low-key with an inexpensive market umbrella and DIY stand. Or you can splurge on fancy cantilever patio umbrellas. Umbrellas offer elegant charm and come in a range of colors and styles. They can also be put away in winter, opening up your patio to sun when you need it most.
9. Try cantilevered shades
With only one side anchored to the ground or a supporting wall, cantilevered shade structures have the benefit of not interfering with traffic flow around a pool. They’re elegant, contemporary, and generally quite expensive. If you decide to splurge on a cantilevered pool shade, you’ll almost certainly need to find an installer near you to make sure it’s constructed properly.
More backyard shade ideas
Wonder what else you can use to shade your backyard and garden? Adding a little shade to your garden or yard makes it safer for kids and pets to play outdoors during the sunniest days of summer.
10. Pop up a gazebo or canopy tent
A pop-up gazebo or canopy tent is a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for occasional shade. These structures pack up small and can be easily stored. Some even come with mesh netting on the sides for extra protection from the sun and mosquitos. Find one in a pretty color that complements your backyard design.
They're easy to set up — some require only one person — and can be ready in less than 30 to 60 minutes. But if you need help, you can hire a local handyman or furniture assembly pro to set it up for you.
11. Use vines and plants
If you already have a pergola, arbor, or gazebo but it doesn’t offer much shade, get creative with climbing plants. Climbing plants add shade and beauty to any structure in your garden. Some popular plants to consider include:
- Bougainvillea
- Clematis
- Honeysuckle
- Ivy
- Rambling roses
- Wisteria
12. Try a DIY backyard shade structure
You don't need to be a master carpenter to build a simple shade structure for your backyard. Use copper pipes and fittings or simple treated lumber to construct a sturdy box frame. Then drape fabric over the top and sides. Yes, you'll have to sew on ribbons to tie the ends down, or you could hire a seamstress to do it.
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