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Casting shade
According to recent online studies (Wikipedia), over 70 per cent of all outdoor useable space surfaces being installed in our backyards are either stamped concrete, manmade pavers or natural flagstone. This is creating a phenomenon called ‘urban heat islands’ in cities and towns. This study goes on to show that we are able to increase the ambient temperature in our backyards by up to 10 degrees by removing the plants and adding stone, which holds the heat. It makes sense: stand in a parking lot on a hot sunny day and then walk over to a grassy area with trees. You definitely notice the difference! This makes adding shade to our patios even more important. Trees, plants, even umbrellas and shade structures all help keep cooler temperatures right where we need them.
The look of umbrellas may have changed with all of the different styles and colours available, but the simple concept of them has stayed pretty much exactly the same. A piece of canvas or outdoor material that is supported overhead by a pole. Personally, I choose umbrellas with either wood or aluminum structures as they do better in our climate. Look for a solid base that will help hold the unit in place in case of a good breeze. Just remember: the bigger the umbrella, the heavier the base. I have had some success with the umbrellas that mount to the side of the house, removing the need for the base altogether. If you are considering this route, just remember to mount it properly— a strong wind can remove your umbrella, it can also take off a chunk of wood and siding!
I’ve noticed more retailers are now including shade sails and squares in their outdoor selections. These are a modern take on shade, popular in Australia and other hot climates. I’ve used these geometric shapes to customize shade in backyards where the homeowner needs shade all summer long. By layering the sails using different shapes and colours, you can create shade exactly where you need it without having to worry about putting everything away at the end of the day. Just make sure that you take down your sails at the end of the season. Heavy snow loads can stretch the fabric and permanently damage the posts.
Pergolas are not usually known for creating a lot of shade in a space. Traditionally they are more for defining an outdoor room. I use fabric panels in between the beams to introduce shade (and extra privacy) in the yard. More stores are now selling these types of units with retractable panels so you have the shade when you need it. Just make sure to choose fabric panels that have grommets or ways for the rainwater to drain out so that it doesn’t collect overhead. Otherwise, someone is getting an unexpected shower!
This summer make the most of your outdoor spaces; just be smart in how you are doing it. As more information comes out about Global Warming and our role in changing the planet, we need to look for options that help solve the problem—even on a small scale in our own backyards.
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