A pergola can be a beautiful addition to any backyard or patio area. But without proper shade, your pergola may go unused during the hottest parts of the day. Adding a shade cover or canopy is an excellent way to enhance your pergola and get more enjoyment from this outdoor living space.
From fabric canopies to wood panels, sail shades, plants, and more, we will cover the different types of covers, features, and design considerations to help you find the perfect shade solution for your pergola.
Types of Pergola Shade Covers
There are several options when it comes to selecting a shade cover for your pergola. The type you choose will depend on factors like your style preferences, needed level of sun protection, and budget.
Fabric and Canvas Canopies
Fabric canopy covers are a popular choice for pergolas. Canopies can be made from canvas, acrylic, polyester, and other textiles that are durable and weather-resistant.
The fabric can be solid, striped, or printed with geometric or abstract patterns. Custom sizes and shapes are available to seamlessly integrate with your existing pergola design.
Fabric canopies provide excellent UV ray and sunlight protection. They are typically water-resistant as well, protecting from light rain. Easy to install, they can simply be draped over the pergola and secured.
Sail Shades
For a dramatic look, consider using sail shades. These covers use fabric cut into triangular or square shapes and mounted above the pergola in an overlapping design.
The billowing shapes provide both form and function. Mesh, canvas, polycarbonate, and other fabrics can be used. Reinforced edges and wind flaps help the sails maintain their structure in windy conditions.
Sail shades make a bold style statement and cast beautiful dappled shade. They can be installed on their own or layered with other covers like fabric canopies or plants.
Wood and Bamboo Panels
Wood and bamboo are natural materials that lend a classic vibe to pergola covers. Slatted panels made of real wood or bamboo can be mounted as moveable screens or fixed roof panels.
Faux wood made of PVC and vinyl is also available for a lighter, cheaper option. The panels can be tilted at angles to control shade and airflow. Wood and bamboo also provide increased privacy.
Some wood covers attach to tracks or motors that allow them to open and close with the push of a button. This allows you to control sunlight and views throughout the day.
Plants and Greenery
Vines, trees, shrubs, and other climbing plants are a natural way to create shade over your pergola. Positioning planters around the edges and training vines to climb the structure creates a living canopy.
Choose hardy plants that grow well in your climate, like grapevines, wisteria, jasmine, or clematis. The foliage blocks sunlight while enhancing beauty and privacy.
A green canopy provides dappled, shifting shade that changes with the seasons. Proper plant selection and maintenance is needed for this organic approach.
Pergola Shade Cover Features
In addition to the type of material, there are other factors that go into choosing the perfect shade cover for your pergola space.
Size and Shape
The dimensions of your shade cover should match the footprint of your pergola, or extend slightly past the edges for increased coverage. Consider the orientation of the structure and how far you want the shade to project.
Custom options like curved, angled, or domed shades can provide tailored protection from the sun’s angles at different times of day. Make sure to measure carefully before ordering a canopy.
Installation Types
Some shade covers, like basic canvas canopies, can easily be installed by the DIY homeowner with basic tools and motiation. Other options like wood panels are better left to the professionals for proper support and positioning.
Canopies may be attached to the pergola rafters and beams or installed as freestanding units with integrated frameworks. The mounting hardware needs to safely and securely hold the weight and withstand weather factors.
Operation Styles
Manual shades require physically rolling or folding the cover open or closed. This allows you to control shade and views on demand.
Motorized systems make operation easy with the touch of a button or smartphone app. These automated pergola shades can also incorporate sun and wind sensors to automatically adjust the cover depending on conditions.
Extra Considerations
Factor in additional features like lighting, heaters, and fans when choosing your cover. You may also want clear plastic panels to allow stargazing at night or gutters around the edges to divert rainfall.
Design and Material Options
Pergola shade covers come in a diverse array of colors, prints, textures, and transparency levels. Select materials and designs that complement your outdoor space.
Colors
Neutral solid colors like white, tan, brown, black, or gray blend well with most patio decor. Or make a statement with bold shades of coral, mint, yellow, teal, and more.
The shade cover color can match exterior house paint or coordinate with plants, furniture, and accessories. Contrasting hues can also pop beautifully.
Textures and Patterns
Fabrics come in smooth finishes or textured woven looks. Faux wood grain mimics natural shingles. Abstract shapes and stripes create visual interest.
Ribbed patterns provide structural integrity. Colors can ombre fade from dark to light. Printed dots, geometrics, and floral designs infuse personality.
Transparency and Privacy
Some covers like blackout fabric completely block sunlight, while translucent mesh filters hazy shade during the day and glows at night.
Wood and bamboo slats obstruct views when closed but can tilt open for breezes and scenery. Find the right balance of visibility and seclusion for your needs.
Durability Factors
Look for UV and water resistant fabric. Mold and mildew resistant properties are useful in humid climates. Sturdy aluminum or steel framework prevents sagging.
Fade-resistant colors maintain vibrancy for years. Stainless steel hardware resists corrosion. Investing in quality materials will ensure your cover withstands all types of weather.
Costs and Budget
There is quite a range when it comes to shade cover pricing. DIY kits can be several hundred dollars, while fully installed solutions with features can be a few thousand.
Size, materials, accessories, motorization, and professional installation all impact the final cost. You can often save money by purchasing materials and handling the installation yourself if you are handy.
No matter your budget, there are options available. Focus on finding durable materials that provide sufficient coverage and match your design sensibilities.
Adding a shade cover is one of the best ways to enhance and maximize your pergola usage. With the variety of types, features, and designs available, you are sure to find the perfect solution for your unique needs and style.
Use this guide to understand the pros and cons of fabrics, wood, plants, and other pergola shade cover options. Consider factors like privacy, weather protection, aesthetics, and ease of use. With proper planning, you’ll enjoy relaxing days and evenings in your shaded pergola retreat.
