A well-crafted patio or yard area can be your ideal extension of the house – a retreat for relaxation, entertainment space, and outdoor enjoyment. Yet, the strong rays of the sun far too often render such areas unusable for the hottest part of the day. A quality shade structure is not so much an add-on, as it truly is an essential investment that translates to use, comfort, and durability for your outdoor living space. If you want ideas and inspiration, our shade structure projects gallery demonstrates the possibilities for transforming your outdoor area.
It provides many advantages besides just offering you a shaded spot. One of the biggest benefits of products from Smart Shade Structures is that they not only protect your health and comfort, but also add real value to your property and outdoor assets.
Protection from Damaging UV Radiation
One of its best advantages is the shield it offers from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Exposure to UV rays for long times not only leads to sunburn, but it also increases the chances of developing skin cancer. A properly situated shade structure, i.e., an awning or pergola, offers shelter wherein you and your family members can revel in the joy of fresh air without the constant likelihood of damage from the sun. This highlights the importance of shade structures for any outdoor living space.
Temperature Control and Comfort
Direct sunlight will rapidly heat your patio or deck and will become uncontrollable on extremely hot days. A shade structure will deflect sunlight and substantially decrease the temperature that comes below. This provides cool as well as comfort, and you will now have the opportunity to use your outdoor space at any point of the day. It converts your patio from its sunny surface form to that of an inviting, relaxing sanctuary – a key reason why shade structures are essential for making the most of your outdoor areas.
Protect Your Outdoor Investments
While we are impacted by the sun, our patio furniture and plants are also. UV rays will cause materials on patio furniture like cloth, plastic, and wood to crack and break down due to use. Sensitive plants will also wither due to the stress of direct sunlight on an ongoing basis. A shade structure will cover and sustain the lifespan and look of your furniture, as well as keep delicate plants from scorching and save you money on replacements and upkeep. This is yet another example of why shade structures are important when considering the long-term care of your outdoor investments.
Selecting the Right Shade Structure
With all the options on the market, selecting the right shade structure involves considering several factors so that it will serve you and your space well. Knowing the shade structure essentials can help you make informed choices for your environment.
Space and Budget
First, determine the space and size that needs coverage (and your budget). You can choose from easy shade sails and jumbo umbrellas on the low end, to permanent options such as pergolas and retractable awnings on the higher end. Clearly, your budget will dictate your options, but also consider your long-term plans for the space and try and reconcile your budget with those plans.
Material and Durability
Material for the shade structure will also dictate how long the structure will last and how much maintenance it will need. Shelters will need waterproof and UV-covered material, and frame material will need coating and long-lasting material for its long lifespan for the environment. You want top-of-the-line material so that your structure will last for years.
Create Installation Requirements
Lastly, think of the installation. A few of the shade solutions, such as umbrellas, are easy to install. Others, such as pergolas or fixed awnings, will need professional installation. Determine if you’ll have one that will always be there, or if you’ll have one which will be seasonal and can be removed during the off-season.
Elevate Your Outdoor Experience
Investing in a shade structure from Smart Shade Structures is the practical and intelligent means of achieving maximum use of your patio or yard. It achieves your required sun coverage, increases comfort, and protects your outdoor investment from harm. In due regard of your needs and selection of your best design, your patio or yard extension can become an attractive, functional, and safe area for everyone.