Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (2024)

Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (1)

Your backyard space is nearly perfect — you love nothing more than to entertain guests or unwind there after a long day. But there’s one thing missing: shade. Backyard shade structures provide a break from the beating sun, while enhancing the style of your deck or patio. In today’s blog, we’re helping you find the perfect choice for your backyard space by highlighting the most popular choices: pergolas, pavilions, and gazebos.

At B&L Woodworking, we’re an Amish builder in New Jersey that crafts luxury structures for homeowners throughout the state. Since we build all three of these trending backyard shade structures, we’re qualified to share the pros and cons of each one. Keep reading to learn more and to see pictures of each option — or reach out to our team to get started right now!

Talk to a Designer

Find Your Perfect Covered Outdoor Structure

All three of these covered outdoor structures are fantastic, which is why we gladly build all of them! Uncovering the right choice for you is a matter of matching your aesthetic style and deciding on the practical benefits of each that will make using your backyard space more satisfying.

Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (2)
Pergolas

If you’ve watched any number of HGTV shows or browsed Pinterest in the last year, you’ve certainly seen this covered outdoor structure featured prominently. Pergolas are instantly recognizable due to their sleek posts and signature lattice top. While the standard top on a pergola is open, a special sunshade or full roof can be added to make it a true backyard shade structure. Compared to the other two options, the slim pergola structure takes less materials and generally is the most budget-friendly option.

Pros:

  • The Hottest Trend of 2021
  • Generally, Least Expensive Option
  • Slim and Sleek Style

Cons:

  • Limited Shade and Weather Protection Compared to Solid Roof

Get Pergola Prices

Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (3)
Pavilions

Similar in several ways to pergolas, pavilions use posts to support a shade roof while keeping the sides open. What sets a pavilion apart is the roof which is often finished with shingles or attractive metal panels, to provide superior protection against the elements. In addition, pavilions come in different shapes like our hexagonal bell pavilions — and the roofs often feature ornamental cupolas. When it comes to designing with this covered outdoor structure for your yard or poolside retreat, you can fit a pavilion on almost any deck or patio where a pergola would fit to provide a truly luxury flair.

Pros:

  • Perfect Shade and Weather Protection
  • Enormous Range of Styles
  • Has a Variety of Different Uses — see some of our favorite backyard pavilion ideas.
  • Distinctly Upscale Feel

Cons:

  • Some Options and Accessories Can Be Expensive

Get Pavilion Prices

Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (4)
Gazebos

Gazebos are a bit different than both pergolas and pavilions, but they are a worthy choice for anyone looking for a covered outdoor structure that provides unbeatable protection. Gazebos feature a more complete structure that includes options for walls, flooring, built-in seating, and electrical wiring. These touches can make this space an exceptional option for a comfortable outdoor dining space or seating area. In addition, gazebos tend to create more of a traditional or rustic space. While pergolas and pavilions are often used overtop outdoor grills and bars, a gazebo just doesn’t match as well with spaces like this. Instead, gazebos are better placed in the middle of a large lawn or on an open deck.

Pros:

  • Unbeatable Outdoor Comfort
  • Countless Ways to Accessorize and Upgrade
  • Rustic Style

Cons:

  • Tends to Be the Most Expensive Option
  • Doesn’t Fit All Spaces

Get Gazebo Prices

Also Building Dependable Storage Sheds

While a shed might not inspire the same style excitement as a luxury backyard shade structure, our quality storage sheds solve problems, while adding to your outdoor décor. At B&L Woodworking, we offer both wooden and vinyl sheds in a wide variety of different styles. Both our A-frame sheds and our Quaker sheds stand out as popular types that pair well with almost any house.

All of our sheds are hand built by real craftsmen out of quality materials, like genuine roof shingles and vinyl siding. The careful construction and durable materials are the reasons that our structures are able to provide decades of dependable, weatherproof storage.

Get Quotes on these Backyard Shade Structures

Any of our backyard shade structures will transform your beloved outdoor space. Whether you prefer a pergola, a pavilion, or a gazebo, we can build the perfect custom structure to match. If you know what you’d like, we encourage you to reach out to get prices and place your order. However, if you’re still weighing your options, talk to our team for a free design consultation — tailored to your tastes!

Reach out to start the conversation right now!

Share This Post:

Popular Backyard Shade Structures to Stay Covered Outdoors (2024)

FAQs

What is an outdoor shade structure called? ›

While an arbor is a smaller structure, pergolas tend to be much larger outdoor shade structures. They include a lattice-style roof that is supported by posts and are used to cover and define larger areas, including entire patios or outdoor seating areas.

What are park shade structures called? ›

Trellises are a beautiful and functional shade structure that offers partial shade coverage. They are typically made of wood or steel and can be customized to fit any space. Trellises are a great option for parks and public spaces with a designated walking or sitting area.

How do you bring shade to outdoor space? ›

One of the most popular ways to add shade to your outdoor paradise is by installing a pergola. You can leave a pergola entirely uninhibited or use covers and screens to keep the sun at bay. In this case, sheer curtains cover the top and the sides for a little extra privacy.

What are the three types of shade? ›

Shade is a term used to describe some degree of relief from the sun. There are basically four classes: light shade, partial shade, full shade, and deep shade. These are based on the duration of time without sun, coupled with shade density.

How to make a cheap outdoor canopy? ›

Buy a high-quality tarp with grommets, big enough to cover the desired area. Use a silver tarp for the best protection against both sun and rain. Use a blue tarp if you can't find a silver tarp. Grommets are small metal rings in each corner of the tarp that will allow you to attach tent poles to create the canopy.

How to anchor a sun shade? ›

The following is a step-by-step guide.
  1. 1 • Locate position. Locate the attachment points, orienting the pole toward the center of the sail.
  2. 2 • Drilling the well. Drill the concrete manhole with Ø14 drill bit.
  3. 3 • Chemical anchor. ...
  4. 4 • Threaded rods. ...
  5. 5 • Screw base. ...
  6. 6 • Eyebolt and Muscle x3. ...
  7. 7 • Cap. ...
  8. 8 • Pole assembly.

How can I cover my patio without losing light? ›

Polycarbonate Roofing

This can be an excellent solution for areas that require warmth and light. You can choose from a variety of colours and profiles to create the right look for your entertainment space. It is so versatile that architects have used it on their buildings for years.

What is a shade pergola? ›

Pergolas with shade covers are great because they're able to give you the shaded protection you're looking for while still allowing air to flow in. These easily removable canopies are often made of breathable woven fabric. This light material provides shade, and it also provides UV protection.

What is a shade roof called? ›

Pergolas are designed to provide shade and protection from the elements. Pergolas can be built as standalone structures, or attached to a structure to create a seamless indoor/outdoor living space. Pergola roofs can be seen in solid fixed-panel styles that create full-time shade, or constructed of louvers.

What can I use instead of a gazebo? ›

A pergola is guaranteed to add that “pop” to your backyard that you've been missing. And with the option to add a retractable shade cover, your pergola becomes kind of like a pavilion, literally giving you the best of both worlds.

What are shade structures? ›

Shade structures provide the protection and coolness that your organization's premises need. Our shades are perfect for parks, parking lots, housing associations, and any place you want to keep cool and shady.

What is the definition of shade structure? ›

Shade Structure means a structure with a temporary or permanent roof or a covering made of or supporting plants or vines which is designed to provide shelter from the heat or glare of the sunlight.

What is a shade batten? ›

Batten - a horizontal stiffener made of fiberglass that is inserted into a small . 25 in. (6.4 mm) pocket in the fabric panel, typically near the vertical center of the shade or at a seam. 3. V's/Smiles - a sagging in the fabric panel of large shades which has a V shape.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Jerrold Considine

Last Updated:

Views: 5960

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jerrold Considine

Birthday: 1993-11-03

Address: Suite 447 3463 Marybelle Circles, New Marlin, AL 20765

Phone: +5816749283868

Job: Sales Executive

Hobby: Air sports, Sand art, Electronics, LARPing, Baseball, Book restoration, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Jerrold Considine, I am a combative, cheerful, encouraging, happy, enthusiastic, funny, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.