Deck Sun Shade Ideas

If you’re like us, your deck is the star of the show for a solid seven to eight months out of the year. Family dinners, get togethers with friends, birthday parties, and more — it all happens on your deck. As great as your deck may be, it’s not complete until you have your shade situation figured out. These deck sun shade options provide unbeatable protection from the beating sun — while enhancing the style of your beloved deck.

At The Backyard Showcase, we craft a wide range of outdoor structures that homeowners use to complete their outdoor living spaces. Check out the most popular deck sun shade ideas — and explore the pros and cons of each style! If you’re ready to bring one home, talk to our team to discuss DIY installation or scheduling installation from our expert craftsmen.

4 Main Deck Shade Options

Sure, super-cheap sun umbrellas might do the trick temporarily. However, when it comes to a long-term shade solution, you want something beautiful and permanent. Any of these deck shade options will deliver standout style that is perfect for wooden or maintenance-free decks and patios.

deck shade options

1. Classic Pergola

Quite possibly the hottest outdoor living accessory of 2021, the classic pergola has never been more popular than right now. These sleek, open-sided structures are known for their distinctive open lattice roofs. While the lattice roof alone won’t provide perfect sun protection, one of the best deck shade options is to upgrade your pergola with a solid roof or a shade canopy. Since pergolas have a simpler design and they utilize less materials to build, they come at a budget-friendly price point.

Pros:

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  • Variety of Materials (Wood, Vinyl, Cedar)
  • Great Price
  • Option for Full Roof or Canopy
  • On-Trend, Elegant Style

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Cons:

  • Needs to be upgraded to provide maximum shade

Start Shopping Classic Pergolas

pavilion on deck for sun shade

2. Pavilion

Amazing style meets exceptional protection! The full roof of your pavilion will not only provide complete protection from the sun, but it will also allow you to enjoy your deck in inclement weather. This deck shade option delivers a truly incredible range of pavilion style options, from traditional rustic options to highly ornamental, pagoda-style pavilions. You have so many different elements to customize when building your own pavilion.

Pros:

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  • Unbeatable Shade
  • Huge Style Variety
  • Protects Against Rain & Snow

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Cons:

  • Can Be More Expensive

Start Shopping Pavilions

modern pergola providing deck shade

3. Modern Pergola

This deck sun shade idea adds a distinctly modern look to your space. While many of these structures have something of an ornamental flair, modern pergolas focus on a no-frills, straight line design that is ideal for contemporary spaces. While the roof will offer more shade than a standard pergola lattice roof, an upgraded pergola roof or a pavilion will perform even better at blocking the sun.

Pros:

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  • Modern Aesthetic
  • Great Privacy Wall Option
  • Matches Wooden Decks Very Well

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Cons:

  • Only Offers Partial Shade

Start Shopping Modern Pergolas

wood gazebo on deck for sun shade

4. Gazebo

While you may not typically think about a gazebo as a deck shade option, if your deck is correct for it, it can be very effective. Not only do gazebos have full roofs for blocking the sun and rain, but the full privacy siding can make your deck even more secluded. On larger decks, gazebos can be used to partition off a corner of the deck for a formal dining space or seating nook.

Pros:

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  • Unbeatable Shade
  • Privacy & Bug Protection
  • Protects Against Rain & Snow

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Cons:

  • Can Be More Expensive
  • May Be Too Large for Some Decks

Start Shopping Gazebos

Always Insist on Amish Quality

There’s a lot of variety in these deck shade options — from the traditional look of a gazebo to the sharp angles of a modern pergola. The one thing that all of these pieces have in common is that they are built by true Amish craftsmen. All of these structures will last for decades out in the elements. While big box hardware stores sell versions of some of these sun shade structures, they simply won’t have the same construction quality or be made with the same high-quality materials. This can lead to them falling apart after just a few seasons in the elements. Investing in one of our gorgeous and long-lasting structures not only delivers a more beautiful deck, but it’s the only practical choice in the long run!

Bring Home Any of these Deck Sun Shade Ideas

If any of these deck sun shade ideas caught your eye, we’re here to help. The first step is to reach out to our team to discuss your options and to get quotes. Whether you want to build one of these structures with a DIY kit or have us build it for you, we can help!

Reach out right now to work with us!

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