6 Best Outdoor Shades for Cool Comfort, Sun Protection and Privacy

Posted by Merlyn Hunt on Saturday, March 2, 2024

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Radiance Cord Free Outdoor Shade via merchant

If you’re in the market for a great value, the Radiance Cord-Free Outdoor Shade will last through wet weather. Easy to clean, install and budget-friendly, this vinyl outdoor shade comes in two colors and five sizes. This outdoor rolling shade is an excellent child-safe option thanks to its roll-and-fasten system, so there are no potentially dangerous cords to worry about.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Available in two colors and five sizes
  • Easy to install
  • Uses child-safe fasten system

Cons

  • Some buyers said they bend easily

What to Consider When Buying Outdoor Shades

When looking for an outdoor shade, consider the size of the space you want to cover. Many outdoor shades are available in various sizes to fit almost any space. You may need more than one shade to properly achieve the look you’re going for.

You’ll also want to consider how much the outdoor shade blocks sunlight. Some shades can block up to 95% of the sun’s harmful rays, while others are semi-sheer and let some sunlight through. In addition, consider how easy it is to install and operate.

Types of Outdoor Shades

  • Corded shades work similarly to blinds and have a cord to adjust their height.
  • Some outdoor shades have a crank. These are a great option since they are easy to operate, and safer for children than corded models.
  • Remote-controlled shades are also an option. Use a remote to adjust the height whenever you need to block out the sun’s rays or want more light in your space.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’m a regular Family Handyman contributor, specializing in seeking out the best deals in home improvement. I have exceptional experience in product research; having done this for so long, I know how to decode descriptions and evaluate every aspect of a product, from materials to manufacturers.

How We Found the Best Outdoor Shades

To come up with this list, we first used our research skills to whittle down the offerings of the most popular major retailers, like Lowe’s, Wayfair and Amazon. We considered the reputations of the companies behind these outdoor shades, analyzed the features that speak to the product’s quality and read hundreds of user reviews to see how these outdoor shades performed in the real world.

FAQ

What material is best for outdoor shades?

Outdoor shades can be made with various materials, including vinyl, bamboo and durable PVC, which, when woven, creates a mesh-like fabric. All have pros and cons, depending on how you plan to use your outdoor shade. However, options made of durable PVC generally have higher ratings, are more durable and will likely cost you more than vinyl or bamboo.

Do outdoor shades block wind?

Outdoor shades, when properly secured, do a great job at blocking wind. Be sure to follow your manufacturer’s directions when installing.

Does rain go through sun shades?

If you want to keep rain out of a gazebo or pergola area, a sunshade is a good option. While no outdoor shade or sunshade will keep out the elements completely, they reduce the amount of rain that can get into an area. This means you may be able to sit outside comfortably during a quick, light rain shower.

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