Looking for extra UV and sun protection as hotter temperatures approach? Modern pergolas may just be the best option for your patio to help prevent burning yourself and your wallet this summer.
But before investing in a pergola, you may ask, do pergolas provide shade? In short, yes! Pergolas are a great addition to your outdoor living space or garden and can provide partial protection from the sun’s beaming rays.
Whether you’re looking to relax in the shade or protect your plants from the sun, we’re here to break down what a pergola is and how it can help you beat the heat this season.
What is a Pergola?
First things first. What is a pergola? A pergola is an outdoor structure usually consisting of a flat roof supported by pillars or posts. Its main purpose is to provide a shaded area for outdoor living, providing protection from direct sunlight and other weather conditions.
You can use a pergola for any outdoor seating or dining area, or as a walkway to divide the areas in your garden. Pergolas can also be used to frame views or provide partial shade for an outdoor patio or deck. That being said, the uses for pergolas are endless so you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee or afternoon read in peace.
Do Pergolas Offer Shade Protection?
If you’re wondering whether a pergola is a “shady” investment depending on how much shade coverage it actually provides, we’re here to cover the basics.
While pergolas are designed to provide shade, the amount depends on several factors such as size and structure, as well as the type of material or fabric used in its construction. Generally speaking, these types of outdoor structures provide partial shade and protection from the sun, but not complete coverage. However, depending on what you’re looking for as you envision your backyard oasis, a pergola may be a perfect match.
We’ve outlined a list of factors below to better understand what factors impact exactly how much shade a pergola roof provides:
Pergola Size
It’s important to consider the size of your pergola structure and how much of your patio or yard you intend to cover. Additionally, you’ll want to think about how many people will be enjoying the benefits of your pergola––so you can ensure all your friends and family are protected from the sun’s strong UV rays.
Larger pergolas can cover more surface area, providing more shade from the sun, while smaller-size structures may be a better option if you’re looking to cover 1-2 chairs and a coffee table.
Pergola Material
When it comes to pergola shade protection, there are different materials you can choose from. Aluminum and wood are two of the most common and effective materials used to construct pergolas. Both types of pergolas are designed to provide shade with their roofs and may feature louvers, allowing you to adjust and control the amount of sun and wind exposure.
In addition to material, the thickness of your pergola’s slats and their spacing will also impact how much shade it provides. For example, thicker, close-set slats can offer more shade than thinner slats that are farther apart.
Pergola Color
If you’re big on creating a cohesive and aesthetic style for your property, picking your custom pergola design and color may be one of the more exciting steps in the process. However, while you may be looking for colors to match the rest of your outdoor furniture, it’s essential to consider how different colors impact the amount of shade your pergola provides.
For example, darker colors like black, gray, or brown are prone to absorb more of the sun’s rays than lighter colors like white or beige. As such, darker pergola colors provide more shade than lighter colors.
Pergola Placement
Placement is key when installing a pergola for optimal shade. By being properly positioned and angled to the sun, a pergola can provide much-needed protection from the heat so you can enjoy the warm weather without sweating bullets. For example, a pergola oriented towards the east will offer much more shade during hot summer afternoons than one facing south or west.
Regarding the pergola itself, make sure to consider the angle and placement of the slats. The greater the angle, the more shade your structure will offer. However, too much of an angle may reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches the plants beneath if you’re a proud owner of spring and summer blooms.
When planning for a pergola, it’s best to get advice from an expert who can ensure it’s in the ideal position for maximum shade. This way, you can enjoy a cooler outdoor area all summer long. And at ALEKO, we’re here to help you do just that.
From aesthetic to effectiveness, be sure to keep all of these factors in mind when purchasing a pergola so you can rest easy knowing your unit is providing just the right amount of shade.
Pick the Perfect Pergola With ALEKO
When it comes to finding the perfect pergola for your outdoor space, ALEKO has you covered (quite literally). With a wide selection of metal pergolas that provide customizable amounts of shade and style, you can find the perfect one for your outdoor living area.
Contact us today to learn more about pergolas, pergola covers, and how a pergola can add just the right amount of shade and style to your property. And if you’re wondering, Do I need a permit for a pergola?, we’ve got the answers on the ready.
And if you’re looking for more shade protection, discover our collection of luxury gazebos to find a structure that’s perfect for you and your yard. Not sure which to choose? Read our blog on the differences between pergola vs gazebo structures to learn more!
