Our Top Recommendation
- Enhance Outdoor Comfort By Blocking Direct Sunlight, UV Exposure, and Blinding Glare
- Place Over Windows Facing Direct Sunlight to Reduce Heat Inside Your Home. Save on Cooling Costs!
- Exterior Grade Knitted Fabric and Components For Years of Worry Free Use
Winter is over and it's time to enjoy the outdoors! If you're one of the lucky people who has a porch or veranda, ‘tis the season to revamp those private outdoor areas! Outdoor shades are a good investment if you have the ability to extend your living space outside in the warmer months.
Similar to indoor window shades, these coverings are hung around porches and other sun-drenched areas in order to keep them cool and provide ambience to your outdoor spaces.They are made of more durable material in order to withstand nature’s elements and are typically operated by pulleys or motors since they are hung along awnings, rooflines, or other hard-to-reach areas.
You can find examples of these screened porch facades in magazines or online, showcasing what can be achieved using this type of decor. In addition to aesthetics, there are many benefits to installing outdoor shades, such as:
- Energy savings from reducing glare and heat in both indoor and outdoor spaces
- Protection from UV rays, harsh weather, and insects
- Maintaining privacy while enjoying the outdoors from the comfort of your home
Depending on your space and budget, outdoor shades can be a fashionable, functional, and economical home improvement choice. But how to find the perfect product for your screened area?
9 Awesome Outdoor Shades For
Screened Porch Facades
1. Radiance Exterior Solar Shade with 85% UV Ray Protection
SIZE: Available in 48" x 72" (4 ft. x 6 ft.), 60” x 72” (5 ft. x 6 ft.), and 72” x 72” (6 ft. x 6 ft.)
DESCRIPTION: This sturdy roller shade is great bang for your buck! It is made from a weather-resistant fabric that will block sun glare and provide UV protection while still letting in air and light. Great for both indoor and outdoor structures, such as windows, porches, gazebos, and sunrooms. It is easily operated via a smooth-action roller clutch-and-pull chain, which features a safety device to reduce risk of strangulation. Proper placement will help reduce cooling costs by shielding your home from the hot sun. All hardware is included to easily install this shade on your own. Available in a lovely Cocoa color. .
Pros
Cons
- Low cost for some customers
- PVC-coated fabric resistant to water, mold, mildew, and fading, cracking, or tearing
- Filters light well and withstands a wide range of weather conditions
- May help boost home energy efficiency during the summer months
- Some customers feel the shades are too transparent and do not provide enough privacy
- Problems with pulley chain and mounting hardware not working or breaking
- Not recommended for extreme weather or high winds
SIZE: Available in 4 ft. x 6 ft., 6 ft. x 6 ft., and 8 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: Made of breathable woven polyethylene, this lightweight yet durable shade maintains visibility while providing excellent UV protection. In addition, it will help reduce sunlight and glare, keeping your home cooler by blocking the sun's rays before they heat up your surroundings. The panel is easy to install and adjustable with a beaded cord that can be placed on either the right or left side. It also includes a cord safety device designed to prevent child and pet endangerment. All hardware and mounting brackets for ceiling or wall installation are included, as well as bottom rail rings to prevent the shade from moving or flapping in wind. The sleek design comes in three stylish colors as well - Black, Cream, and Cabo Sand.
Pros
Cons
- Synthetic material provides extra durability and maintains privacy while still filtering light and blocking heat
- May help boost home energy efficiency during the summer months
- Very easy to operate, according to customer reviews
- Problems with beaded cord and other components breaking
- Higher price point - varies depending on size
- Some customers feel this product does not provide enough privacy
SIZE: Available in 4 ft. x 6 ft., 6 ft. x 6 ft., and 8 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: Enhance the comfort of your outdoor areas by blocking direct sunlight, UV exposure, and blinding glare with this tough exterior solar shade ! Made with a heavy-duty PE (polyethylene) fabric, this product protects people, pets, and furnishings from up to 88% of UVA rays. The exterior-grade knitted fabric and durable components will give you years of worry-free use! Using the included mounting brackets for either ceiling or wall installation, simply place this shade in any area facing direct sunlight to reduce heat inside your home and start saving on cooling costs. As part of the manufacturer’s “silver series,” these shades come with a metal bottom tube and a ring tie-down system. Additionally, the cord-operated roller chain clutch features a child safety tension device and can easily be moved to the left or right. Available in three fabric colors - Monterey, Cabo Sand, Pebble Beach.
Pros
Cons
- Hardware and fabric colors complement each other
- May help boost home energy efficiency during the summer months
- Up to 88% UV protection, depending on fabric choice
- Some customers had problems with the shade rolling up unevenly
- Two-person installation recommended by customers
SIZE: 4 ft. x 6 ft. (An additional 2.75” is required for the installation of this shade to accommodate the mounting brackets. The total height once mounted and installed is 74.74”.)
DESCRIPTION: Similar to the previous Coolaroo product, this shade combines their signature breathable HDPE fabric with child-safe cordless crank mechanism. This shade blocks up to 90% of damaging UV rays while filtering light and reducing glare. The durable material and components will resist fading, mold and mildew for years to come! And don’t forget, installing these shades can substantially reduce indoor temperatures and help you save on energy costs.
Pros
Cons
- Lightweight, weather-resistant fabric blocks up to 90% of UV rays
- Save on energy costs with proper placement
- Safe, cordless operation
- Most affordable Coolaroo option on this list
- Some customers had problems with installation
- Not recommended for withstanding strong winds
SIZE: Available in 36" x 72", 48" x 72", 60" x 72", 72” x 60”, 72” x 72”, 72” x 96”, 96” x 72”, 96" x 78", and 96" x 96" (some sizes were out of stock at the time of this writing)
DESCRIPTION: These durable roll-up blinds are as easy on the wallet as they are easy to use! For those looking for a minimalistic option that still provides ample sun coverage and privacy, this is the product for you. Unlike the shades previously listed, this item is made from PVC slats instead of fabric. It operates like a traditional window blind and even comes complete with an automatic cord lock to aid in height adjustment. It also has hooks and an adjustable headrail for easy hanging. Available in a variety of sizes and two colors, Woodgrain or White, to fit any space and complement your current decor.
Pros
Cons
- One of the more affordable options on this list
- PVC material makes this product very durable and easy to clean
- Easy installation with hooks
- Blinds do not offer as much protection from glare and UV rays as fabric shades
- Many customers had problems with rolling the blinds up - the cords get tangled easily or are not taut enough to hold the slats together
SIZE: 4 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: Coolaroo is really dominating this sunshade list! Here is another outstanding option with the same UV- and heat-blocking power as the previous items. It will help keep your outdoor space cool and comfortable even in the strongest sun, thanks to the company’s innovative fabrics that withstand extreme weather conditions and the effects of harmful UV rays. The shade is mounted on an easy-to-install roller clutch head rail, making adjustments a breeze. Then you can focus on enjoying the actual breezes while basking under your new outdoor shades!
Pros
Cons
- Blocks up to 80% of UV rays
- Superior breathable fabric to allow airflow while reducing temperature
- Not a lot of customer feedback on how these function
SIZE: Available in 4 ft. x 6 ft., 6 ft. x 6 ft., and 8 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: Coming in as 2nd runner up in affordability is this window shade from Castlecreek . Its weaved HDPE fabric resists mold, mildew, weather, and fading while letting light and fresh summer breezes right in. This item is easily installed wherever you need it, using the included headrail and mounting hardware. A traditional pull cord raises and lowers the shade, making height adjustment a snap. Very handy whether you want to soak up some vitamin D or keep light and harmful UV rays out of your eyes and home.
Pros
Cons
- Blocks up to 90% of UV rays without cutting off airflow
- One of the more affordable options on list
- Some customers had problems with the pull cord breaking and not being able to order replacement parts. However, the manufacturer gladly replaces any broken items once they are returned.
SIZE: Available in 6 ft. x 6 ft. and 8 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: Another high-ranking item from Coolaroo! Their unique knitted polyester fabric is really great at blocking the sun's heat (and up to 90% of UV rays) while at the same time allowing in airflow during those hot days. This particular shade has the same child-safe cordless operation and is made of the same weather-resistant materials as the previous Coolaroo items, Its stylish mocha-colored, light-filtering fabric weave reduces glare without darkening the surrounding areas too much, providing adequate privacy and helping improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Pros
Cons
- Unique knitted 'breathable' fabric allows airflow and privacy
- Substantially reducing temperatures and energy costs
- Designed with an aluminum head rail for added strength and durability
- Heavy-duty spring roller mechanism allows you to easily move the shade into position.
- Many of the reviews stated they received their shipments damaged or the product was defective and had to be returned.
- Medium price point - one reviewer claimed they found it at their local home improvement store at half price!
- Not recommended for inside mounting - be sure to verify your width measurements if you plan to hang this within any frame or enclosure.
SIZE: Available in 4 ft. x 6 ft., 6 ft. x 6 ft., 8 ft. x 6 ft., and 10 ft. x 6 ft.
DESCRIPTION: This exterior roller shade is one of our FAVES! Coolaroo shades combine unique knitted fabric and neutral Sesame color that will be a fresh addition to any décor. This lightweight HDPE synthetic material blocks up to 80% of damaging UV rays while still allowing ample airflow and light into the area. Operated by a smooth-action crank mechanism without cords or chains, this product is a great child-safe option. The shade and its components are very durable and will resist fading, mold and mildew, ensuring they look great and last for a long time. Furthermore, the manufacturer claims installing these shades can substantially reduce temperatures in and around your home, saving up to 40% on energy costs - doesn’t get any better than that!
Pros
Cons
- Breathable, weather-resistant fabric blocks up to 80% of UV rays
- Save up to 40% on energy costs with proper placement
- Safe, cordless operation
- Higher price point - depending on size
- Some customers had problems with installation
- Not recommended for withstanding strong winds
How To Pick Your Outdoor Shades
According to Awnings-and-Blinds.com, the main things to consider when shopping for outdoor shades are:
1. Atmosphere - Decide what sort of ambience you want for your space and have your shades complement this. Take into consideration things like the overall style and color scheme of your outdoor furnishings.
2. Level Of Protection - Consider why you are purchasing outdoor shades. Does your area have a mild climate or do you need protection from harder weather? Do you want shades that will give you more privacy or let light in?
3. Cost - Be sure to plan your budget accordingly and stick to it. No matter what the total amount is, you will find many options to choose from when shopping for your outdoor shades.
4. Durability - Based on your needs and geographical location, you may want to opt for shades that can tolerate extreme temperatures or be easy to clean. Most products are mold and mildew resistant, too.
The following is a list of just a few fantastic outdoor shades available online that are sure to deliver quality and affordability to your home improvement project. This article will help you sift through these products and make an informed purchase, but please be sure to measure the areas where you plan to use these shades before buying anything.
Conclusion
So what to do with all this information? Of course, we encourage you to research the products a bit more on your own, but - in this author’s opinion - the best choices on the list are the Coolaroo Select Exterior Cordless Roller Shade and Castlecreek Sunscreen Roll-Up Window Shade.
Both items are priced very affordably on the list, which is especially exciting for a brand name like Coolaroo. The Australian company is well-known for their innovative fabrics that withstand extreme weather conditions, so you can expect high quality from their products.
The Castlecreek shade, however, is of a similar caliber. When it comes to UV protection, both shades block up to 90% of the sun’s harmful rays. Both are also made of lightweight synthetic fabric that will allow airflow and light through while resisting mold, mildew, and fading.
In terms of differences, a big plus for the Castlecreek product is that it’s available in more sizes. On the other hand, the Coolaroo has a leg up with its child-safe cordless crank operation. Both are important features not to be overlooked.
If you’re feeling like this is is gonna be a tough decision, as they say Down Under, no worries, mate! If the customer reviews are accurate, you’ll be happy no matter which one you purchase.
Additional Research:
http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/gardens/front-back-screen-porch-patio/modern-cottage-screened-porch
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/outdoor-blinds/
https://energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-treatments
http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/seal-of-recommendation
http://www.awnings-and-blinds.com/porch-blinds-and-porch-shades.php
5 Tips for Choosing the Best Outdoor Shades for Screened Porches
- Choose a shade material that is durable and can withstand the elements. Sunbrella fabrics are a great option as they are fade-resistant and water-resistant.
- Consider the size of your screened porch when selecting shades. Make sure to measure the area before purchasing to ensure you get the right fit.
- Look for shades that offer UV protection, as this will help keep your porch cool and protect furniture from sun damage.
- Think about how much light you want to let in when choosing outdoor shades. If you want more privacy, opt for darker colors or blackout shades.
- Make sure to choose outdoor shades that are easy to install and maintain. Look for options with removable covers that can be washed or replaced if needed.
ALSO: Consider adding motorized shades for convenience and ease of use!
Additional Helpful Info For Readers
With these products, you can enjoy being outside without worrying about bugs or other pests. They protect you from the sun's rays while still letting you enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of your outdoor space. Because there are so many choices, it can be hard to decide what kind of shade is best for your porch. When choosing outdoor shades for your screened porch, here are some things to think about: 1. Durability: Look for materials that are made to last a long time and stand up to bad weather. Sunbrella fabrics are a popular choice because they are resistant to mildew and UV light, don't fade, and are easy to clean. 2. Style: Choose an outdoor shade that fits with the style of your house and its overall look. Think about colors, patterns, textures, and shapes that will make your porch look better and block enough of the sun's rays. 3. Make sure you think about how it works.
Ideas for Effective Use: What Can They Be Used For?
There are three primary ways to use these shades. First, they protect you from the harmful UV rays of the sun. This is especially important for people who spend a lot of time outside, as it helps lower the risk of skin cancer and other health problems. Second, they keep your screened porch cool when it's hot outside. This is done by blocking direct sunlight and making it easier for air to move. Lastly, you can also use these shades to make your porch more private. This is great for people who want to enjoy some peace and quiet without having to worry about nosy neighbors or people walking by peeking in. With all of these uses, outdoor shades are a great way to make the most of your screened porch while staying safe from the sun's harmful rays.
The Cons: What To Know
After talking about the pros of these products, it's important to think about the cons as well. First of all, these shades can be pricey and hard to put up. Depending on how big your porch is, you may need to hire a professional to install them. This can add a lot to the cost. If you choose a motorized system, you will also have to pay for wiring and a power source. There are some practical ways to deal with these problems, which is good news. By choosing manual shades instead of motorized ones, for instance, you can save money on installation and wiring costs. Also, buying shades that are already made from a store or online can save you money on installation because they come with instructions and all the hardware you need. Lastly, you could try to install it yourself if you have some basic DIY skills and tools like drills and screwdrivers. However, this should only be done with care.
By What Criteria Should They Be Evaluated?
When assessing them, the most important quantitative factors to look at are how long they last, how easy they are to install, how much they cost, and how well they protect against UV light. Durability is important because it tells you how long the shade will last in outdoor conditions. Ease of installation is important to make sure you can set up the shade quickly and easily. Cost-effectiveness tells you if the shade is worth the money, and UV protection is important to keep you safe from the sun's harmful rays. When deciding which outdoor shade is best for a screened porch, you should think about all of these things.
Using It First Hand: What To Expect
These installations are a great way to get more privacy and protection from the weather while still being able to enjoy being outside. They can be used to keep bugs away and block out direct sunlight. Depending on the kind of shade you choose, they can also keep heat and cold out. When choosing outdoor shades for your screened porch, you should think about things like the type of fabric, color, size, and how it will be put up. Sunbrella fabrics are popular because they last a long time and don't fade when used outside. Light colors will help keep your porch from getting too hot, while darker colors will soak up more heat. The shade should be big enough to cover the whole area you want to be in the shade without getting in the way of any views or airflow. Lastly, make sure you choose a way to put up your shades that is safe and easy to use so that you can change them or take them down when you need to. With the right choice and installation, you'll be able to use your outdoor space in comfort and privacy all year long.
In general, here's what you need to do to set up these shades: First, make sure that the shade on your porch is the right size and style. Next, put the mounting brackets on your porch's walls or ceiling. Third, hang the shade from the brackets and make any necessary adjustments. Fourth, use weights or tie-downs to keep the bottom of the shade in place. Fifth, if you have a motorized system, connect it to a power source and program it to meet your needs. Last but not least, enjoy more privacy and shade from the sun! With these easy steps in mind, it's easy to use these useful items to make a comfortable space outside.
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