Shading a pergola
10 ways to use a pergola for shade |
(Image credit: Simon Scarboro/David Cleveland/Real Stone and Tile Co))
There are plenty of pergola shade ideas that will increase the usability of your backyard during the summertime. Ranging from simple fabric coverings through to more substantial solid roofs, they can suit every style of garden, too.
Traditionally, a pergola is a frame, usually wooden, the consists of four posts and a roof. Typically, these roofs are an open slatted design, and while they’re aesthetically pleasing, they don't offer much shade – something that is essential in the warmer parts of the country.
But there are a whole host of pergola shade solutions you can combine with your pergola ideas to make yours a comfortable place to sit even on the hottest days. We’ve put together the best to inspire you.
Pergola shade ideas
Pergola shade ideas make this garden structure a more versatile addition to a yard. 'Pergolas are perfect for providing filtered sunlight as well as shade,' says Tammy Sons, founder of Tree Nursery Co . ‘They are a nice addition to decks for putting hot tubs, swings, lawn chairs, and picnic tables under. Outdoor lights work exceptionally well strung around pergola tops for nighttime enjoyment. Pergolas can also be decorated with all types of climbing plants and vines for added beauty in the spring and summer seasons.'
To make the most of any location and look, consider these ways to build a pergola for shade.
1. Add a rustic roof
(Image credit: Real Stone and Tile Co)
A rustic design can be one of the best pergola roof ideas to create shade in a backyard. However, since natural daylight will fade more quickly under a pergola designed for shade, ensure you include backyard lighting to illuminate it.
This shaded garden space is utilized for outdoor lounging surrounded by beautiful architectural plants – and the pergola is built as an element of the deck ideas.
2. Hang curtains on a pergola
(Image credit: Simon Scarboro)
While shade from above is important, shade around its sides can be crucial for day-long comfort.
In this idyllic setup, weighted sheer curtains are hung from the rails installed below the wooden framework of the pergola. As well as offering shelter from the sun, these pergola shade ideas give the space a softer edge and add both color and pattern.
3. Layer up roof materials
(Image credit: Alistair Nicholls)
If you're designing a pergola it’s worth considering layering roof materials to provide sufficient shade.
In this spacious scheme, a structure of wooden beams creates an airy roof. To provide extra pergola shade when the sun is at its highest, above is a second roof structure comprised of loose willow branches that offers an escape from the sun while still letting in pretty dappled beams.
4. Grow a living pergola roof for shade
(Image credit: Future / David Cleveland)
Think about growing climbing plants over the roof of a pergola to make a seating area that’s wonderfully cool during the hottest times of the year.
It’s an especially appealing pergola shade option if you want your structure attached to the house as it creates an attractive view from upstairs windows.
There are plenty of different plants that you can use but you might favor fast-growing flowering vines as these will provide both shade and interest in a relatively short period of time – typically just a few years.
5. Opt for a retractable pergola canopy
(Image credit: ShadeFX)
For maximum flexibility, take a look at a retractable canopy that enables you to create a pergola for shade when you want it – or not when you don't – perfect for achieving the perfect balance between light and shadow.
A retractable canopy has a soft, laid-back aesthetic like a fabric roof, but increased durability. It could also offer both sun and rain protection, which will help to preserve your furniture as well as providing a relaxing space in all weathers.
Designs like this Oakville canopy from Shade FX are controlled by a motor, although there are also more affordable options that are operated by a rope pulley system or a manual drive.
6. Relax in a pergola tent
(Image credit: Raj Tent Club)
If you're hosting a garden party, adding a decadently dressed pergola for shade to the lawn creates a focal point for gathering and the perfect spot to escape the heat of the day.
Ideal for summer celebrations, this 9 foot (2.8m) pergola from Raj Tent Club is able to seat up to 10 guests. As well as offering shade from above, the delicately tied curtains at each post can also be untied and closed to create an intimate setting. Just add lighting to linger in the yard after dark.
7. Introduce scent and color as well as shade
(Image credit: Jo Thompson Garden Design)
Planting climbing roses is one of our favorite pergola shade ideas, introducing beautiful blooms and fragrance, along with extra cool to the area. They can provide privacy for a yard that‘s overlooked, too.
There are lots of different climbing rose varieties that can be used to create pergola shade.
'Theo Clevers roses work well planted next to pergolas or porches where they will give a great display in combination with climbers,' recommends Marcus Eyles, horticultural director at Dobbies , 'This variety has a gentle aroma of strawberries and has beautiful rosette-shaped flowers in large, tight clusters.
They are also suitable for growing in larger pots if you only have space for containers on the patio.'
8. Install a louvered roof
(Image credit: Caribbean Blinds)
If you’re looking for pergola shade ideas with maximum flexibility, a louvered roof is a sound solution, allowing adjustment throughout the day.
'Designed for those who want to “live life outdoors”, modern pergolas with rotating aluminum louvered roofs permit the user to play with light and shade, offering an open-air alfresco feel when left fully open, and ensuring a completely water, wind and even snow-tight roof when closed,' says Stuart Dantzic, managing director of Caribbean Blinds .
9. Create temporary shade with vintage fabrics
(Image credit: Dan Duchars)
Pergola shades don’t need to be permanent additions to the structure. On a sunny day, simply drape a minimalist metal pergola with pretty fabric to create welcome cool and privacy. Use mismatched fabrics to create a laid-back boho vibe, then pair with rattan garden furniture and plenty of pillows for a cozy spot in which to relax.
10. Benefit from natural shade
(Image credit: Grange)
If you are looking to erect a new pergola in your garden, consider positioning it in an area that is already shaded. This beautifully simple wooden carousel design from the Oxford Garden Centre has a completely open roof which enables it to feel bright and airy but, since it is positioned under the boughs of a willow tree, is perfectly shaded. Dressed with bunting, pillows and picnic blankets, it is ideal for al fresco dining.
How do you add more shade to a pergola?
You can add more shade to a pergola with coverings at the sides. Fabric panels are a simple addition, and can be hung, like curtains, from railings fitted just below the perimeter of the roof structure. They will soften the lines of the pergola, too.
Alternatively, use large foliage plants in pots, positioned around the sides of the pergola to cool and green the area.
What can you use to shade a pergola?
To shade a pergola, use fabric hung as curtains or draped over the roof, patio planting ideas, and different roofing materials either alone or in combination.
Your choices might depend on the permanence of the pergola, and the style of your yard.
If you have erected a temporary pergola to provide shade over the course of a few sunny days, then fabric provides an excellent source of shade. As permanent solutions, consider adding blinds or even building a solid roof.
Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature.
Check Out These Smart Pergolas Sun Shade Ideas
Pergolas are unique structures that have been in use for hundreds of years. They were originally used to train vines to grow over the top, which created a type of canopy and shade for the user.
Today, pergolas are often left open to add definition to an area. They may also have covers, canopies, or other types of top added that can provide shade.
Pergola tops come in a wide range of styles both permanent and temporary, and can add a lot of style, interest, and function to your outdoor design. If you’re wondering how to incorporate shade into the pergola that you’re building, check out these 11 pergola sun shade ideas:
1. Fixed Pergola Roof
Pergolas are being used to help frame areas like outdoor kitchens, lounges, and entertainment areas. These spaces need more protection than an ordinary, open-topped pergola can give, so fixed roof pergolas are the perfect solution.
This pergola is topped with a fixed canopy made out of polycarbonate panels. The panels are UV resistant, and offer shade and protection from rain and snow as well.
2. Tension Fabric
Simple pergolas need a simple shade option. These pergolas have a stretched canvas canopy that offers shade and protection from a sudden shower. They’re also light, and perfect for complementing modern or contemporary pergola structures that have clean lines and no lattice top.
3. Motorized Retractable Canopy
Sometimes you need shade, sometimes you don’t. That’s where retractable canopies can be of use. They roll out smoothly to offer total protection from the sun and rain, or you can retract them to let the sun shine in. Want just a little shade? Stop the canopy halfway across. These canopies work well with really modern and contemporary style pergolas, offering shade and protection along with very clean lines and a simplistic appearance.
4. Oversized Modern Design
If you’re building a pergola with a canopy, you will find many styles that let you create unique and interesting structures. This modern pergola design has a retractable canopy that extends past the legs of the structure on either side. This creates a more interesting appearance for the pergola and the area as a whole. It also offers extra protection on either end, and with the retractable canopy, you can also adjust the shade as needed.
5. Classic Canopy
Tension canopies make a great addition to classically styled pergolas. This pergola has columns and beams that have decorative ends, fitting a more traditional setting. The fixed canvas effortlessly matches the style of the rest of the canopy, but also offers some much needed shade. The open sections of the canopy let more air circulate as well, helping to keep things cool inside.
6. Retractable Fabric Lengths
The fabric on this classic pergola top is draped and folded over the top of the pergola, and is manually adjustable to give you the perfect amount of shade or sun. You can switch up the colors and patterns of the fabric as well as the placement, giving you even more options for customization.
7. Fabric Walls
One way to create a traditional canopy top for your pergola also allows you to create an adjustable fabric “wall” as well. This is ideal if the location of the pergola lets the sunlight angle beneath the canopy top. Now you can have additional, adjustable shade as you need it, along with privacy and a traditional pergola design. The fabric can be switched and adjusted as needed to customize the look as well.
8. Roof Extension
Having a pergola over a patio or attached to the entrance of a home is a very popular idea.
A fixed canopy over a traditional-style pergola can create a cohesive look with the rest of the home, as well as protection from sunlight and the elements. Using fixed panels on the canopy of the pergola also means that it can get more use, even on rainy days, so the patio is more versatile.
9. Retractable Awning Style
If your pergola is attached to the side of a building, you can also make use of a retractable awning style canopy. Draw it out over the traditional pergola for shade as needed, or retract it against the building to allow some sunlight into the area. A traditional top on the pergola works well in both settings, giving more flexibility for use, and to the area.
10. Multi-functional Roof
If you’re building a pergola to be the cover for an outdoor kitchen or entertainment area, having a fixed canopy gives you lots of options. In this instance, electricity has been run to the pergola, allowing lights and ceiling fans to be installed on the frame.
The polycarbonate panels on top keep the Sun’s UV rays (as well as any rain or hail) off of the sensitive equipment and keep it protected from the elements.
11. Subtle Style
Sometimes you want the shade and protection from the elements, but you don’t want to call attention to it. Fixed panels installed over the top of a traditional pergola can complete that design. The panels have a subtle appearance from below, so they don’t detract from the overall appeal of the pergola, but they offer unparalleled protection from the sun and elements, so the area below can get more use.
Shade Your Pergola in Style
Adding a canopy to your pergola design adds a lot more versatility and use to the space. It can add some additional style, or facilitate more modern designs. Visit Structureworks to learn more about how you can create the perfect pergola for your next project.
SHADING THE TERRACE, OR HOW TO RELAX COMFORTABLY ON HOT DAYS
On hot summer days, the only way to get some relief from the scorching sun is to shade the terrace.
Unfortunately, standard garden umbrellas with a small canopy that wobbles in stronger wind gusts cannot cover a large terrace with soothing shade. An equipment with a much wider coverage is a canopy. What characterizes modern pergolas? Is it worth investing in these types of structures? Check it out!
Metal pergola - practical terrace shading
In recent years, we have been able to see how high temperatures can give us signs. Should the near-tropical heat mean giving up what we love most in the summer - the great outdoors? Not necessary! A simple yet effective way to provide relief from the heat pouring down from the sky is to shade your terrace with an awning.
Modern gardens have been dominated by modern gazebo-shaped canopies for several seasons. The high-end canopy over the terrace deck has little in common with romantic wooden arbors over which vines or roses freely weave. The undeniable hit in gardens carefully designed in accordance with the latest trends are minimalist pergolas made of metal.
The terrace with gazebo becomes a fully functional area that family and guests can use regardless of the weather. For everyone who wants to turn their garden into a bright, attractive and comfortable space, we are pleased to present the MARANZA pergola, designed by our designers.
MARANZA - terrace shading in a modern style
Terrace canopy of the MARANZA series is built entirely from a material that performs well in difficult, external conditions - aluminum. Powder coated metal successfully combines absolute durability with a sleek look. You can be sure that ultraviolet radiation, extreme temperatures, humidity and pollution will not adversely affect the condition of the structure. It is important to note that MARANZA allows you to shade a terrace of various sizes, both small and very large.
Sturdy profiles that remain completely stable even in very windy weather are the support for roofs built from lamellas, that is, flat laths. In addition, you can change the angle of their inclination by controlling the number of rays reaching the terrace.
Thanks to its clever design, MARANZA functions are not limited to terrace shading. Closed (i.e. flat) lamellas are also an airtight barrier to protect against precipitation. MARANZA reveals the fullness of its possibilities when you replenish it with additional elements in the form of roll-up walls that protect people on the terrace from strong winds, infrared heaters that emit pleasant warmth and lighting.
Shading the terrace for years, i.e. the correct maintenance of the canopy
The metal profiles of the pergola are firmly attached to the base, which means that MARANZA is a year-round structure. Contrary to appearances, you do not need to spend your time impregnating and protecting the canopy in the off-season. External factors will not affect the state of the gazebo. Snow lying on the roof for many months also does not pose a danger to the gazebo. Closed slats withstand heavy loads up to 80 kg/m2. Thanks to invisible drainage systems, precipitation will not accumulate on the roof.
Are you afraid that complex assembly is beyond your capabilities? We hasten to reassure all people who are not endowed with the ability to craft. Your task is to choose the model you are interested in. Our specialists will take care of measurements, transportation and placement of structures in the specified place! Experienced specialists will competently mount the structure and explain how to properly control the mechanism.
The dot above the "i" of a stylish terrace layout
The MARANZA line terrace canopy has been improved not only functionally, but also aesthetically. By shading the terrace with an innovative canopy, you get double protection from adverse weather conditions and exquisite decoration. MARANZA is available in two colors: white and anthracite. Each one is designed around the latest design trends. The simple, no-frills form, noble, pure colors and concise details make the innovative canopy a sophisticated decoration that complements the exterior.
MARANZA with a slightly rough metallic coolness will be interesting to contrast with the bright greenery and natural shapes created by Mother Nature herself. The collision of two worlds - natural and modern - will bring amazing results!
Restaurant terrace shading? Now it's not a problem!
The need to shade the terrace is a problem that not only those who like to relax in the comfort of their own garden, but also entrepreneurs running their business in the HoReCa industry face in the summer. On warm days, it is the outer areas of restaurants, hotels or SPA centers that customers are especially willing to visit. In order to provide its guests with optimal conditions for a relaxing holiday, it is worth enriching the outer zone of MARANZA. We are confident that customers relaxing on sun loungers, hammocks and swings will appreciate the opportunity to cool off in the soothing shade when the sun is too pampering.
Pergolas
AERO SKY®
AERO SKYE® - Sliding lamella roof for panoramic views.
The slats open from the center to the edges. The ability to install built-in lighting, music speakers and a heater allows you to use the pergola all year round from early morning until late evening. The perfect pool solution for your home!
ALGARVE CANVAS®
Aesthetically designed ALGARVE CANVAS® canopy with a sun protection fabric fixed roof will protect your car from bad weather. Optional Fixscreen® sunscreens on the sides provide protection from sunlight and raindrops. ALGARVE CANVAS® - protecting your car from sun and rain!
ALGARVE®
ALGARVE® is a sober, concise and at the same time elegant pergola with pivoting slats on the roof. When the slats are closed, the roof becomes waterproof. Rainwater is channeled through columns through a built-in drain, so your terrace is always clean and dry. To protect against sunlight, raindrops and insects, the sides of the pergola can be completed with Fixscreen® sun screens, glass sliding walls or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels.
The versatile design allows Algarve to be placed close to the house, by the pool or simply in the garden. Pergola ALGARVE® is elegance and comfort!
ALGARVE®
ALGARVE® is a sober, concise and at the same time elegant pergola with pivoting slats on the roof. When the slats are closed, the roof becomes waterproof. Rainwater is channeled through columns through a built-in drain, so your terrace is always clean and dry. To protect against sunlight, raindrops and insects, the sides of the pergola can be completed with Fixscreen® sun screens, glass sliding walls or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels. The versatile design allows Algarve to be placed close to the house, by the pool or simply in the garden. Pergola ALGARVE® is elegance and comfort!
CAMARGUE SKY®
CAMARGUE SKYE® is a premium pergola that allows you to create a cozy seating area and enjoy panoramic views. On a clear day or on a starry night, its fully retractable roof will give you the opportunity to enjoy the starry sky or floating clouds while lying in a hammock on the terrace.
A fully waterproof roof on a rainy day will protect from rain or shelter from the scorching sun in the heat. For additional protection from the sun, rain, wind and insects, the pergola can be equipped with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels. The roof, sun screens and lighting are controlled via a mobile app. Coziness, style, comfort and the opportunity to admire the open sky without going outside - this is the CAMARGUE SKYE® pergola!
CAMARGUE®
CAMARGUE® - a stylish pergola with a roof made of slats perfectly organizes the space of a country house, highlighting the place of rest, harmoniously linking the exterior of the house and its interior. By turning the slats, you can fill the recreation area with sunlight or shade it, hide from the scorching sun or rain. When closed, the slats form a completely waterproof roof. Rain water is discharged through special channels in the columns. The sides of the pergola can be fitted with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels to create a cozy and private atmosphere.
Add comfort options such as built-in lighting, music speakers and a heater.
CAMARGUE®
CAMARGUE® - a stylish pergola with a roof made of slats perfectly organizes the space of a country house, highlighting the place of rest, harmoniously linking the exterior of the house and its interior. By turning the slats, you can fill the recreation area with sunlight or shade it, hide from the scorching sun or rain. When closed, the slats form a completely waterproof roof. Rain water is discharged through special channels in the columns. The sides of the pergola can be fitted with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels to create a cozy and private atmosphere. Add comfort options such as built-in lighting, music speakers and a heater.
CAMARGUE®
CAMARGUE® - a stylish pergola with a roof made of slats perfectly organizes the space of a country house, highlighting the place of rest, harmoniously linking the exterior of the house and its interior.
By turning the slats, you can fill the recreation area with sunlight or shade it, hide from the scorching sun or rain. When closed, the slats form a completely waterproof roof. Rain water is discharged through special channels in the columns. The sides of the pergola can be fitted with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels to create a cozy and private atmosphere. Add comfort options such as built-in lighting, music speakers and a heater.
LAGUNE®
The LAGUNE® pergola's sloping retractable roof made from a sun-, water- and wind-repellent special fabric will protect you from bad weather. For additional protection from the sun, rain, wind and insects, the pergola can be equipped with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels. The ability to install built-in lighting, music speakers and a heater allows you to use the pergola all year round from early morning until late evening. The LAGUNE® pergola is ideal for any design and will become a real decoration of your home!
LAPURE®
Sloping LAPURE® pergola roof made of special sun, water and wind protection fabric.
Possibility of installing additional Fixscreen® sun screens, which provide, in addition to protection from lateral sunlight and raindrops, protection from insects, without obstructing the penetration of air. It is also possible to set the backlight. Simplicity and comfort - this is the LAPURE® pergola!
LAPURE®
LAPURE® pergola retractable roof made of special sun, water and wind protection fabric. Fixscreen® sunscreens can be installed on the sides of the pergola.
TOSCANE®
The TOSCANE® Pergola is an elegant model with slender columns and a sloping fabric roof. For additional protection from the sun, rain, wind and insects, the pergola can be equipped with sliding glass walls, Fixscreen® sun screens or Loggia® wood or aluminum sliding panels. It is possible to install a built-in backlight. The TOSCANE® pergola is an elegant solution for bad weather!
AERO®
An elegant and watertight pergola/slat roof that enhances your landscape and keeps the rain out.
