How to Keep Your Outdoor Areas Cool

Keeping Cool Outdoors: Practical Shade Ideas

Queensland's climate means our outdoor areas can be used for much of the year, but during the hotter months, direct sun can quickly make a patio, deck or entertaining area uncomfortable.

The right combination of shade, airflow and landscaping can make a significant difference. It can also help protect outdoor furniture and create an outdoor area you're more likely to use.

Here are some practical ideas for keeping cool outdoors and making your outdoor spaces more comfortable.

1. Pergolas and Patio Roofs

A pergola or covered patio can provide substantial shade over an outdoor entertaining area.

There are plenty of options, from traditional fixed roofs to adjustable louvres that allow you to control the amount of sunlight entering the space.

Before deciding on the position and design, consider where the sun falls throughout the day. Protecting an area from the harsh afternoon sun can often make the biggest difference.

2. Shade Sails

Shade sails can be a practical option when you want shade without constructing a permanent roof.

They can work particularly well over pools, decks, children's play areas and sections of the backyard that receive strong direct sunlight.

Positioning is important. Consider not only where the sun is now, but how its angle changes throughout the day and at different times of the year.

3. Outdoor Umbrellas

Sometimes the simplest solution is all that's needed.

A large outdoor umbrella can provide flexible shade over a dining table, seating area or poolside space without requiring permanent construction.

Cantilever umbrellas can be particularly useful because the supporting post can sit away from the area you're trying to shade. Look for an umbrella that can be adjusted as the sun moves.

4. Screening for Afternoon Sun

An overhead roof won't necessarily solve every heat problem.

If strong western sun enters from the side in the afternoon, screening may be more effective. Slatted screens, outdoor blinds and strategically positioned privacy panels can help reduce direct sunlight while still allowing airflow.

Screening can also provide additional privacy and help define an outdoor entertaining area.

5. Use Trees and Plants for Natural Shade

Landscaping can play an important role in keeping outdoor areas comfortable.

Established trees can provide valuable natural shade, while smaller trees, hedges and layered planting can help soften hard surfaces and create a cooler-feeling environment.

Choose plants appropriate for the position, available space and local conditions. Also consider their mature size before planting close to the house, fencing or other structures.

6. Combine Different Types of Shade

Often the most effective outdoor spaces don't rely on one solution.

A covered patio might provide the main shaded area, while an umbrella provides flexibility around the pool and landscaping helps protect another part of the garden from afternoon sun.

Combining permanent and flexible shade allows different parts of the outdoor area to remain comfortable as the sun moves.

Plan Around How You Use Your Outdoor Space

Before spending money, take some time to watch how the sun moves across your property.

Consider which areas become hottest, where shade already falls and when you actually use the outdoor space.

You may discover that a relatively simple change can make a significant difference.

A well-planned outdoor area doesn't need to be completely covered. The aim is to create enough protection from the sun to make the space comfortable, practical and enjoyable throughout more of the year.