Are you planning to spend the spring and summer months outside with your friends and family?
If so, sun safety should be a top priority—ahead of things like backyard decor, landscaping, and your collection of pool toys.
Unprotected exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage of all kinds, affecting your skin, eyes, immune system, and more. Sunburn can lead to premature skin aging and even skin cancer.
With that being said, the following patio cover ideas are a fantastic way to enjoy long summer days without the risk of UV exposure. Not only do they protect your skin (and that of your loved ones), but they look good, too. They’re a win-win!
1. Triangle Shades
For cheap patio cover ideas that still get the job done, consider triangle shades, also known as shade sails.
Shade sails are made from UV-resistant materials like polyethylene fabric and are also weather- and waterproof, allowing you to keep them up whether it’s raining or not. They’re durable enough to withstand tears and provide shade, but thin enough to look breezy and offer you some light.
Pull your triangle shade taut so it’s not drooping, and you’ll love the way it fits chicly right into your space.
2. Pleasing Pergolas
Unlike triangle shades (or umbrellas, which we’ll cover next), pergolas are one of those backyard patio cover ideas that require more forethought. They’re not so easily moved or adjusted once you set them up—without a demolition team, at least!
But if you’re interested in making a more permanent cover, pergolas are one way to do so.
Pergolas typically cover the main space you’ll hang out in, making a central location for everyone to sit under. They’re made from posts or pillars—usually, some type of wood—and aren’t enclosed, with a lattice top. Because of this, you might consider adding a shade on top of your pergola or curtains on either side to double down on sun protection.
3. Beautiful Umbrellas
Umbrellas are a great addition to any backyard space—but they should be high-quality, durable, and purposeful.
Take the umbrellas here, for example: https://www.harborclassic.com/collections/umbrellas. These beauties are heavy enough to withstand wind, resilient enough to outlast all types of weather, yet elegant enough to be pleasing to the eye.
Keep it classic with a standard white color, or opt for some flair by adding a navy trim. If you want to go bolder but keep it cohesive, consider black, taupe, or grey. They’re sure to match any color scheme you already have going on!
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Patio Cover Ideas for Pleasant Outdoor Hangs
Utilizing your back- or front yard is a wonderful way to capitalize on your home’s space.
A summer spent indoors is a summer wasted. Use these outdoor patio cover ideas to enjoy long, sunny days—without the risk of harmful sun exposure. At the same time, you get to enjoy the benefits of an eye-catching addition to your decor.
How else can you turn your house into a home?
Check out the rest of our articles for more fantastic ideas!
