Crafting Comfort With Cover
Comfort is king when it comes to outdoor living. So, if your deck or patio gets a lot of sun exposure, you’ll want to consider adding one or more shade elements to maximize the use of your project area. “In some instances, your house may block the sun; but in other cases, it may be fully exposed and unbearably hot,” explains Erik Moden, owner of Outdoor Spaces in Leesburg, Va. “So, even if you have a really nice deck or patio space, you won’t be able to use it.”
There are a number of shading options available — ranging from permanent, fully covered structures to retractable fabric shades and curtains. The best feature for your space will depend on your budget, your preferences and the way your space is situated. “The key to choosing the right shading elements is to pay attention to where the sun is and how exposed you may be at the times of day you’ll be using the space,” says Moden. “Then decide whether you need some kind of covering and whether it’s a screened porch or detached structure like a pavilion or pergola that will give you a functional space without leaving you too exposed.”
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