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Shady Character: Stylish Covers for Your Patio
Top off your patio with a chic cover to protect guests from wind, sun and summer showers
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
The perfect outdoor entertaining space is all about comfort, and having just the right amount of shade or sun can make all the difference. Don't look only for practicality — shade your patio in style! If you're planning on hosting dinner parties and barbecues on your patio this summer, a permanent cover can help protect guests from the sun, wind or even the occasional summer shower while still adding to your outdoor aesthetic.
Read on to see a variety of patio cover styles and find one that's right for you.
Read on to see a variety of patio cover styles and find one that's right for you.
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| Retractable options let you choose when you want shade or sun. When it’s the former, this playful design folds out strips of yellow fabric to protect you from the rays. |
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| Custom design a style with a local manufacturer to get the exact elegant look you want. These beautiful custom covers work as a posh addition to the home's exterior. |
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by Tenshon, LLC
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| If you’re looking for better coverage over a patio that has a pergola-style roof, patio shade panels install directly into the wood roof for extra protection and a burst of colorful style. |
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| Think carefully about the material you choose for your patio cover — the right materials can alter your backyard's look dramatically. A bamboo roof creates tropical appeal that makes this space feel like a vacation spot. |
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| Corrugated metal is a surprisingly stylish option for a patio cover that works well with modern or industrial-style homes. |
The bamboo cover on this outdoor space adds shade and texture to the patio's simple and modern design.
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| Fabric might feel too simple, but don't overlook it. Layering outdoor fabric panels across an overhead frame will soften the sunlight on your patio. |
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| Regardless of the type of cover you choose, consider building the frame for your cover on an angle for extra protection. Think about the most common time of day you’ll be using the patio and work with an architect to determine the best angle for your home. |
| Don’t forget the sides of your patio. You may want to think about screens to help deter the sun sneaking in as it rises or sets. |
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Curtains can help filter out sunlight on the sides too. Flowing fabric delivers a soft, elegant touch to any outdoor space while helping to control both sun and shade.
Comments
olldbobbi I like the idea of the bamboo roof in the fourth picture. How does it work with bugs, like spiders? I wonder if it's an attractant or a deterent?
9 months ago · Like
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Julie Thomas love the curtains - elegant.
9 months ago · Like
nhpolo Bobbi, I have a house in Costa Rica, where bamboo is used this way a lot, I have never noticed it being a haven for bugs, and believe me, there are millions of bugs in the jungle.
9 months ago · Like
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Karin Brown_Del_Valle i have full sun but also wind and during the winter snow...i lean towards removable because i like the sun in the kitchen and only put out an umbrella when i am outside and need the shade. But it is just to hot to sit outside in the sun and the umbrella isn't enough. we need more ideas?
9 months ago · Like
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Melissa Brunson I love the pergola looks shown but hope that other looks in urban homes are shown with screening options - mosquitoes & other creepy crawlers are a concern as we sit and enjoy our back yard patio.
9 months ago · Like
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Fine Art & Portraits by Laurel The second photo is strikingly beautiful, but because of the angle, I'm not able to see what the patio cover material is.
9 months ago · Like
Insolroll Window Shading Systems Great article. We love the use of the Insolroll product line. It truly is a great option for your Patio Shading needs.
9 months ago · Like
hollybond We made curtains for our pergola but can't find any rust-proof rods and accessories to hang the curtains...any suggestions? 
9 months ago · Like
mother5590 Use electrical conduit poles or PVC they both work great plus you can find the fittings to match. MUCH less expensive as well.
8 months ago · Like
τεντες Very useful information for functional and energy efficient methods to protect from sun, heat and cool our places. Thanks!
6 weeks ago · Like
chjacobs123 Just bought our house. Can't figure out what to Dow this deck space. Gets full, very hot sun all spring and summer. Would love sun sails but have thunderstorms w high wind. Any suggestions. Thanks. 
4 weeks ago · Like
Ideabook published on Aug. 7, 2012.
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