Shaded areas in the courtyard: 5 top proposals for every need

When the days warm up it's nice to spend time outdoors. And, if you are lucky enough to have a courtyard, it can become an extra "room" to your house, where you can spend many days gardening, having lunch or dinner outdoors.

When the sun's rays become very intense, however, the need for a shaded area is paramount.But are you running out of ideas on how to get shade in your backyard? We suggest below the 5 proposals which might suit your needs.

1. Portable solar tarp

Let's start with the simplest idea to implement - suitable for all people who love to travel the world and always want to be ready for new horizons. Among the advantages of this option is the possibility of being positioned wherever it is needed and the ease of assembly, disassembly and transport. This make these tarps suitable for those who are particularly mobile.

The disadvantages of this choice are is the relatively small size, which makes it unsuitable for large groups. Also, they are not particularly water/rain resistant. 

2. Sail shades

The cheapest and most effective method for shading large areas is to use triangular or rectangular sheets suitable for balconies, terraces and gardens with permanent anchor points. Available in different shapes and colors, this is an optimal choice for spacious areas. The disadvantages are that sails have poor protection from UV rays and are not water-proof. Also, the need for fixed anchor points may not be convenient for you.

3. Pergola

The best way to permanently shade a patio or area of your backyard, a pergola is a wooden or metal structure that adds charm and beauty to any outdoor area. You can choose to integrate them into nature by adding climbing plants, leaving the structure open, or to close it with fabric awnings that will block the sun and rain. Pergolas and can be purchased in kits that are easy to assemble.

The disadvantages of this choice are the high costs and the possible need to apply for a permit for their installation.

4. Patio umbrellas

Available today in numerous different models and sizes, patio umbreallas are easily adjustable according to the position of the sun and are perfect for those who do not want to (or cannot build) permanent installations without sacrificing stability.

The disadvantages of umbrellas are their instability, which requires using a sturdy base, and their vulnerability to windy conditions.

5. Motorized sun awnings

These motorized awnings are useful not only for shading the outside of one's home, but also the inside. They are especially perfect for those rooms which face south and which receive a lot of sun in the summer. You can easily retract it when it's not needed and you can adjust the shading amount to suit your specific needs.

The disadvantages are that they are a permanent installation (which may be impossible in some circumstances), and also the need to remember to retract them during spells of bad weather.

Have you decided yet what will protect your backyard from the sun?