A great patio awning can turn a scorching hot outdoor space into a cool, comfortable retreat.

Enjoying your patio or deck all day requires some type of patio cover to shield you from the sun’s intense rays. If your outdoor space doesn’t have a built in covering, you have many shade idea options to choose from. A classic patio awning is one of the most popular patio shade ideas.

An awning is a sheet of canvas or another type of shade cloth stretched on a fiberglass, metal, or aluminum frame. Not only will a patio awning protect you from the sun, it will also protect your outdoor furniture from rain, hail, and other natural elements.

Check out our favorite patio awning ideas and learn more about which type of patio cover will work best for you.

1. Backyard

Some homes have a canopy awning over each window, in both the front yard and the backyard. This type of canopy is usually a design element, common on older bungalows and cottage-style homes. However, it’s most common to see window and door awnings in the backyard.

Source: @life.at_.theshire via Instagram

A patio awning is most likely a backyard element, as a patio usually opens out into the outdoor space behind the house. If your patio, deck, terrace, or other outdoor living space is uncovered, you can install a retractable patio awning. For a more permanent backyard awning, build a permanent frame to support your awning fabric.

2. Canopy

It’s common to interchange the words “awning” and “canopy” but the two sources of outdoor shade actually have some differences. While both are often made of a durable, waterproof material, an awning is thought to be more permanent. Stationary awnings prevent light from entering inside windows and doors and protect an outdoor area from the elements.

Source: @blushingbungalow via Instagram