Not yet registered? Create a OverBlog!

Create my blog

A guide to buying an outdoor shade

One way to extend the space of a home or just enjoy cooling off outside the home is to put up an outdoor shade in the form of an umbrella, an awning, a canopy, or window shades. Find out which type suits your needs and what to consider when buying one.

Outdoor shade

Summer is a great time for people to go outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. While children run around and play, adults may just want to lounge and read or maybe, enjoy an outdoor picnic in the backyard. However, the midday sun can be stifling and having an outdoor shade is essential to avoid sunburn or a heat stroke. Temporary or permanent shade Outdoor shade can be provided by a magnificent oak tree in the backyard, but not all people have one, or care to have a tree that sheds or grows too fast. Another alternative would be to set up a temporary or permanent shade that can protect the family from the garden sun or even the rain.

Types of outdoor shades

Umbrellas One can use simple, large umbrellas called shade or solar umbrellas which are erected near tables. Side-arm umbrellas, also known as off-set umbrellas extend from nearby chairs. Umbrellas are the simplest kinds of shade where one does not need to make structural changes to the house in order to fasten the shading. Awnings Garden awnings are retractable aluminum or plastic frameworks supporting a fabric that can be installed over windows or doors. Sun awnings provide a small extension of the house from an opening like a door or window to provide shade to those near the opening. Outdoor awnings must be kept clean to prevent the possibility of mold or fungal growth. Awning material can be woven fabrics or polyesters, and both require regular cleaning. Canopies Canopies are large tent-like frames that are set up on the ground and covered by fabric in contrast to awnings which are supported by a frame attached to another structure like a window or door frame of the house. Patio canopies are partly attached to a house, yet have two poles (wood or steel) that support the rest of the structure. For a wider shade, use outdoor canopies that will give you 100% UV protection and are also water-resistant. Look for models with steel frames that are rust-resistant. Make sure that the top of the canopy is vented so that the hottest air will go out leaving cooler air behind. You also need these vents to prevent the wind from blowing it over your yard. Securely fasten down the sides of the canopy with weights to make sure that it stays in place. Reference Outdoorshades.org and Galttech.com

Same category articles Garden & exterior

Five great garden storage ideas

Five great garden storage ideas

The history of gardening dates back from the beginning of mankind. while it can be argued that it began accidentally, it soon became a wide-spread practice that was passed down through the ages. gardens ranged from the practical to the elaborate, like the hanging gardens of babylon or the more modern gardens by capability brown. whether the garden is there for pleasure or sustenance, having garden storage for your gardening supplies is a must.
A guide to buying quarry tiles

A guide to buying quarry tiles

According to the national park service, quarry tile is one of the most common types of tile found in historic houses. the service defines quarry tile as "unglazed, semi-vitreous or vitreous, and essentially are square or rectangular slabs of clay baked in a kiln." the hard, ceramic tiles work well in various applications. this article will explore these versatile and beautiful tiles.
A guide to buying a steel fence

A guide to buying a steel fence

When you buy fencing for your property, you are not only protecting your property but you are also enhancing it. it is also a great way if not an attractive one to divide your property. you can choose whether to put it up around the pool area, keep creatures out or simply to keep pets and children in. you have a choice between steel railings, metal railing, iron fences or wooden fences. read this article to find out more about steel fences.
A buyer's guide to tractor mowers

A buyer's guide to tractor mowers

Tractor mowers, commonly known as ride-on lawn mowers, are designed for rapid cutting of large lawns and grassy areas. larger versions are primarily used by commercial turf maintenance companies, golf courses, municipalities and so on. smaller versions, however, are manufactured for easy use by homeowners. zero-turn radius mowers and tractor mowers are the two types that are commonly used for residential applications.