11 Deck Cover Ideas to Create Shade
Stay cool.
Enjoying time outdoors on your deck doesn’t have to be cut short by surprising showers or harsh rays. By adding a deck cover, you’ll be able to spend more time outside this season. Keep reading to learn more about our must-see deck cover ideas.
Go for an Umbrella
One of the most common ways to create shade on your deck is with an outdoor umbrella. Pair it with a patio table or let it stand on its own. They are a great option if you want to create more shade quickly – they can be put up and down with a few turns of a lever. If the sun hits your patio at an angle, opt for a cantilever patio umbrella. It will let you adjust the umbrella’s angle to fit your specific shade needs.
Tip!
Want more patio cover ideas? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Outdoor Shade Structures.
Add a Pergola
A pergola is a freestanding structure with a latticed roof that offers partial shade to your deck. It is a great option if you want some sunlight on your deck but need reprieve from direct rays. If you like the style of a pergola but want more shade, grow greenery or vines on your pergola to create more shade as they grow. If you want to block out all sunlight, opt for a pergola with a canopy included. To learn more about pergolas, read our guide What Is a Pergola?
If you want a more temporary deck cover idea, opt for an outdoor canopy – it’s the perfect shade solution for decks and patios. They come in a variety of sizes and colors to match your needs, while remaining budget-friendly compared to other more permanent deck shade options. Some come with curtains or fabric walls with window cut-outs to help minimize side sun exposure. The best part? Once you're done alfresco dining you can easily collapse and store the canopy until the next time you need it.
Curtains are not just for the indoors. They create a resort-like feel when used outdoors, which makes them a must on our list of outdoor deck cover ideas. Add curtains to your deck posts or to the side of a pergola to block out direct sunlight. When the sunlight gets to be too much, you can pull the curtains aside so you can still enjoy being outside. While protecting you from the sun, curtains also can act as a privacy screen. Opt for weather-resistant, mildew-resistant, and UV-blocking fabrics to prevent your curtains from fading and keep them in good condition.
Adding a gazebo to your deck is not only a great focal point, but it helps create shade and protection from the elements. Whether you want to use it as a designated seating area or place it over your grill, it will let you enjoy the outdoors, no matter the weather.
Tip!
Review our Backyard Buying Guide: Pergola vs. Gazebo to determine the best gazebo option for your deck.
Bring in a Porch Swing
Designate a shaded seating area on your deck with a shaded porch swing like the one pictured above. This all-in-one furniture piece works especially well on small decks or patios as you don't need to designate space for seating and shade. Pair two canopied porch swings with an outdoor table for shaded meals and happy hours.
Shade sails are great if you are looking for seasonal deck cover ideas. Shade sails can be anchored to the exterior of your home, deck posts, or even trees, making them a versatile option. They are designed to withstand light weather conditions, like light wind and direct sunlight. Before hanging up your sail, it’s important to look where shade falls naturally in your yard. You will want to hang your shade sail in an area that casts shade where it is needed the most.
Tip!
Check out these 12 Shade Sail Ideas to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Outdoor Space to discover just how versatile shade sails can be.
Make Use Of Outdoor Privacy Screens
Privacy screens aren't just for sectioning and enclosing deck spaces. They are also great tools for minimizing harsh evening or morning light while still filtering some light through. Position privacy screens around any outdoor seating area that gets intense morning/evening sun. The best part? Most privacy screens are easily moveable so you can adjust as the light changes throughout the seasons.
Awnings create shade in places that are close to the exterior of your home, like a deck or patio, or to shade windows that get a lot of direct sunlight. Awnings are connected to the side of your house and can either be extended or retracted, making them a great option if you are looking for shade that does not require storage space throughout the year. If you find yourself wanting to get both sunlight and shade throughout the day, opt for a motorized retractable awning for a quick switch. It allows you to enjoy both shade and sunshine throughout the day without having to move your seat.
Tip!
Leaning towards covered deck ideas involving an awning? Review How to Choose the Best Type of Awning to achieve your shade goals.
Consider a Canopy Daybed
If you want to add more shade to your deck, consider a deck cover idea like a shaded daybed. A daybed with a canopy will give you reprieve from the sun while you enjoy the outdoors in a cozy seat.
A repurposed shed can help you fulfill your deck shade goals! This concept works especially well when paired with ground-level decks or level patio surfaces. Pursue your hobbies while getting some fresh air, or bring the bistro set in to enjoy the outdoors (and a cold drink!) on hot summer days. If you have a raised deck, make sure to review the deck's weight capacity and local building codes before putting a shed on your deck.
Tip!
Want to add more shade with greenery? Think about planting trees in your yard near your deck. The leaves will create shade, letting you enjoy more time outdoors.
