Many people take the luxury of having a balcony at their house or apartment for granted. It can be a great spot to relax in the sun or enjoy a nice breeze on a warm day. Sometimes, though, the sun can be a bit too strong. That doesn’t mean it’s time to head inside—all you need is to add some shade, and you can sit out for as long as you’d like. Added bonus? Many of these ideas also add privacy to your balcony. There are numerous options for shade out there, ranging in structure, style, and size. Read on to learn about six shading options for your balcony.
Awning
An awning is a piece of fabric or other material that is attached to the exterior of a building and provides protection from the sun and rain. Since they’re attached to the building, it’s likely a project for a contractor, rather than doing it DIY like some other options. Awnings can be made from various materials, including canvas, vinyl, and aluminum. They are often used over doors and windows, but they can also provide shade for balconies and outdoor areas.
Awnings cover the whole balcony, so you’ll almost always be in the shade and not worrying about the sun heating you up. If you find yourself wanting some of that sun, retractable awnings are available. In addition, an awning can protect your furniture and flooring from fade damage caused by UV rays. When choosing an awning for your balcony, select one that is durable and weather-resistant.
Shade Sail
Shade sails are a popular way to shade a balcony and for a good reason. They provide effective sun protection while being relatively easy to install and remove. A shade sail is typically made from a sturdy fabric such as polyester or canvas, and it is attached to the balcony’s railing using ropes or straps. The sails come in various sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.
When installing a shade sail, it is crucial to ensure that the fabric is tight so it does not flap in the wind. You should also secure the corners of the sail to provide additional stability. A shade sail can provide years of enjoyment on your balcony with proper care.
Umbrella
One way to bring shade to your balcony is by using an umbrella. Umbrellas come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes, so you can find one that fits your space and personal preferences. In addition, umbrellas can be easily closed and stored away when not in use. Their maneuverability comes in handy if you’re out on the balcony long enough for the strongest of the sun’s rays to change location. No more moving your chair—just shift the umbrella!
When choosing an umbrella, it is important to consider its size and the sun’s strength in your area. If your balcony gets a lot of direct sunlight, you will need a larger umbrella to provide adequate coverage. It is also essential to choose a durable umbrella that can withstand rain and strong winds if you plan on leaving it outside. Once you have selected the perfect umbrella, you can enjoy spending time on your balcony without worrying about getting too much sun.
Trellis with Plants
Trellises tend to be vertical, so they may need to be combined with overhead protection for a full shaded effect on your balcony. Still, a trellis with plants is an ideal way to bring shade to your balcony. Climbing plants such as ivy or morning glories can quickly cover a trellis, providing much-needed relief from the hot summer sun. Not only do they offer protection from the sun, but they also add color and visual interest to your outdoor space.
In addition, many climbing plants are straightforward to care for and require little maintenance. You can also make your own trellis using recycled materials such as old pieces of lattice or even chicken wire. Once you’ve selected or made your trellis, place it against your balcony wall and start training your chosen plants to grow up and over it. With a bit of time and effort, you can create a shady oasis on your balcony that you can enjoy all summer.
Pergola
A pergola typically consists of a lattice of beams. Pergolas provide several benefits: they can block out the sun to create a cool, comfortable space, they can serve as an ornamental feature in your landscape, and they can provide support for climbing plants like a trellis, but horizontal. A pergola can provide much-needed shade from the hot sun when placed over a balcony. In addition, a pergola can add style and character to a balcony, making it an inviting place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Pergolas can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and even plastic. Once you have selected the perfect pergola for your home, you can enjoy the outdoors in style while staying cool and protected from the sun.
Natural Tree Coverage
Trees are a wonderful asset to any landscape, providing beauty, privacy, and a variety of other benefits. One of the best benefits of trees is their ability to provide natural shade for outdoor living spaces, such as balconies. Depending on the height and location, different trees might be better suited for your circumstances. While both leafy and coniferous trees offer their own versions of privacy and shade, they may not reach or cover your living spaces adequately.
When choosing trees, it is important to consider the size and growth habits of the tree. Fast-growing trees can provide quick relief from the sun, but they may need to be pruned frequently to maintain the desired shape. Smaller trees may take longer to provide significant shading, but they will require less maintenance over time.
One other option is picking a tree that you can put directly on the balcony. Plants that have large leaves are ideal for this purpose, as they will provide the most shade. Some good options include ficus trees, fig trees, and banana trees.
Stay Out Longer Under Your Balcony’s Shade
Balconies are a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but they can also be quite hot during summer months. Shade is a great way to increase the time you can spend on your balcony. Not only does shade provide relief from the sun, but it can also add an extra layer of privacy, depending on the setup. By bringing shade to your balcony with one of these options (or creating your own!), you can stay out longer and enjoy the fresh air. Now all that’s left is to get out there and enjoy those sunny days!
About the Author
Meet Bridgett, your friendly neighborhood green building guru! With more years of experience than she’d like to admit, Bridgett is your go-to expert for all things eco-friendly construction. She’s on a mission to make your home the envy of every tree hugger in town (and maybe even the squirrels 🐿️). Let’s build a greener, funnier, and all-around better world together – one enlightened eco-conscious choice at a time!