When sunny days become too much, adequate shade protection is a must.

A large patio or deck may be one of the features that led you to choose your current home, but without adequate shade, these outdoor living spaces can quickly become uncomfortable. This is especially true if you live in a warm climate where summer sunshine and temperatures can be intense.

Many homes include a deck or patio that lacks an awning or any shade structure. If that describes your dwelling, you will need to research backyard shade ideas and find out which one will work best in your own backyard.

This article is a great place to start, as we have collected an impressive number of patio shade options for your perusal. Click through for inspiration on how to turn your patio into a comfortably well-shaded outdoor area.

1. Deck

One of the more classic deck shade ideas, building a gazebo over your deck, or adjacent to it, is a great way to escape the sun. A gazebo provides shade and a lovely focal point to your outdoor living space.

It’s also a marvelous place to locate an outdoor kitchen. Most gazebos have a solid roof that makes the space beneath feel more like an outdoor room than a shaded structure.

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Don’t overlook the power of nature to provide plenty of backyard shade over your outdoor space.

Plant a tall hedge near your deck’s border for privacy as well as shade. A flowering hedge will add a blast of color and fragrance to your garden as well. If you are building a home, try to arrange your house plan so that your backyard patio is well-shaded by mature trees.