Picture this.
The sun is beaming down on you as you relax on the patio at your lake home. You have burgers and veggies cooking on the grill and a cold drink in your hand. When you get a little too hot from the sun, you jump into the refreshing waters of the lake to cool down. But, what do you do when you’re ready to get out of the sun?
Going inside is one solution, but why spend a gorgeous day at the lake indoors? Instead, shade your outdoor space so you can still spend time outside your lake home with family and friends while relaxing in the shade.
Keep reading for the 5 best lake home shade ideas.
1. Pergola
A pergola is a beautiful addition to any backyard, but they’re exceptionally breathtaking at lake homes. These structures add both shade and beauty to decks, patios, or any space in your yard that you want to block from the sun.
Go for partial shade with a traditional pergola or the ability to choose 100% shade with an operable pergola.
Pergolas can be made from wood or vinyl, but an aluminum pergola design is a low maintenance choice that is designed to last a lifetime.
2. Retractable Awning
Do you love the sunshine too much to commit to a solid structure that will block it? If so, a retractable awning may be precisely what you need.
Retractable awnings allow you to choose when you want sun or shade on your patio or deck. Awnings come in either manual or motorized options and either type will provide sun protection and add an aesthetic boost to your yard.
Awnings are custom-designed for your space and are available in a variety of sizes and fabric styles. There are options for you whether you want a plain color or prefer a pattern.
3. Shade Screens
Patio sun shades are another great sun-blocking option for lake homes. These screens can be customized to fit your needs and can even come with a motor for smooth operation.
Think of shade screens as a curtain for your outdoor living area. They can be pulled down as low as you need them to be to protect you from the elements.
A great bonus about shade screens is that they’re useful in all seasons. Not only will they protect you from the sun, but light rain and insects, too.
4. Patio Covers
Do you want a more permanent solution to protect your outdoor lake space? A patio cover can provide protection from the sun as well as excessive heat and even rain. Imagine, no longer having to run inside when rain hits. With a patio cover, rain doesn’t need to ruin your lake time. You can still enjoy your outdoor space with the cover of a patio roof.
They’re not retractable like shade screens or awnings, but they provide infinite protection all year round.
5. Plant a Tree
There’s nothing quite as beautiful as a well-landscaped yard. The right tree can supply shade, provided you have the patience to wait for it to grow. Once it’s reached full size, you’ll be enjoying a cooler and shadier yard for many years to come.
Choose a fast-growing tree like a hybrid poplar, which can grow up to eight feet per year. Be sure to plant the tree on the southwest corner of your sitting area. This ensures you’re getting shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Benefits of Adding a Shade Product to Your Lake Home
- Have a place to get out of the sun
- Protect family and outdoor furniture from harmful UV rays
- Create an outdoor extension of your lake home
- Add a little privacy
- Beautify your space
Enjoy Your Lake Home Safely
Imagine an outdoor space at your lake home where you can enjoy the sun and the shade. Our five lake home shade ideas above will help you do exactly that.
If you’re hoping to spend more time outside this summer, let us help. With help from W.A. Zimmer, your lake home can become the perfect getaway. Contact us today to see how we can help you create a safe and shady oasis.
