Shade Structures For Your Pool: What You Need To Know
Basking in the sun by the pool—what could be more idyllic? As delightful as a sunny poolside day sounds, prolonged exposure to the sun is neither pleasant nor safe. Installing a shade structure transforms your pool area into a comfortable oasis where you can protect your skin and enjoy the great outdoors without the risk of overexposure to harmful rays. If you're considering a shade upgrade for your beloved pool, it's crucial to understand the different types, what factors to consider, the benefits, and how to best install and maintain these structures. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about integrating shade into your pool area, ensuring that every pool day is a perfect day.
Types of Shade Structures
When considering shade for your pool, you’re spoilt for choice with a variety of options each bringing its own aesthetic and functional advantages.
Umbrellas
The quintessential poolside parasol, umbrellas are a versatile option suited for their adjustability according to the sun’s trajectory. They come in a wide range of sizes, colours, and materials, making them ideal for smaller pool areas or for those seeking a flexible shading solution.
Pergolas
For a touch of elegance and sophistication, the permanent structure of a pergola provides a more solid shade option. Often covered in climbing plants, pergolas create a beautiful natural canopy that brings a resort-like atmosphere to your backyard.
Gazebos
Larger and more enclosed than pergolas, gazebos are a social hub that provides not just shade but shelter from the elements. They can be customised to include seating or even an additional poolside bar, making them perfect for those who entertain frequently.
Sail Shades
Modern and minimalist, sail shades are a stylish option known for their high UV protection and air of contemporary cool. Typically crafted from durable fabric, sail shades come in various geometric shapes that can complement any design scheme.
Retractable Awnings
Perfect for those who like flexibility, retractable awnings offer adjustable cover at the touch of a button. They span across large pool areas, providing ample shade when necessary and retracting neatly when not in use.
Each of these structures serves a different purpose, so it’s important to evaluate your specific needs and the characteristics of your pool area before making a choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shade Structure
Beyond personal taste and the aesthetic of your outdoor area, there are several practical factors that should influence your decision when selecting the right shade structure.
Size and Shape of the Pool Area
Whether you have a large rectangular pool or a small free-form one, the size and layout of your pool area will dictate the size and number of shade structures that will fit best. You also need to consider where the sun hits your pool area throughout the day to ensure that your shade solution offers protection when you need it most.
Material Durability
Poolside shade structures are subjected to not just sun and rain, but also chlorinated water and blowing debris. It’s essential that the materials are up to the task. Look for UV resistant fabrics, corrosion-resistant metals, and quality timber for structures that will last.
Design Aesthetics
Your shade structure should blend seamlessly with your overall outdoor design. Consider colours and shapes that complement your existing poolside décor for a polished look.
Installation and Maintenance Requirements
Some shade structures are more complex to install than others. Gazebos and pergolas, for example, may involve construction and permits, while umbrellas could be more straightforward DIY projects. Maintenance routines should also match your preferences and capacity—sail shades are relatively low-maintenance, while pergolas may require more care due to their living cover.
Consider these factors in tandem with your personal style to select a shade structure that ticks all the boxes.
Benefits of Pool Shade Structures
The advantages of having shade near your pool go beyond comfort and aesthetics. By providing a cool retreat from the sun’s rays, shade can enhance relaxation and enjoyment by creating a pleasant ambience. Additionally, it helps protect swimmers from excessive sun exposure, promoting skin health and overall well-being.
Sun Protection
The most obvious benefit is the protection from harmful UV rays that prolonged sun exposure can bring. A good shade structure ensures that you can enjoy your pool without worrying about sunburn or long-term damage to your skin.
Enhanced Outdoor Comfort
By reducing the heat of the midday sun, shade structures create a cooler environment that invites you to linger by the pool for longer. They also protect the flooring around your pool, keeping it cooler underfoot.
Increasing Property Value
A well-designed and meticulously maintained pool area not only enhances the value of your property but also creates an inviting oasis for relaxation and entertainment. Prospective home buyers are frequently captivated by the allure of a thoughtfully curated outdoor living space that offers a safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing environment for unwinding with family and friends.
Installation Tips and Maintenance
Ensuring your shade structure is correctly installed not only guarantees its functionality but also your safety.
Proper Installation Techniques
Depending on the type of structure, you may need to anchor poles, secure fabric or build a more complex framework. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and, if in doubt, consult with a professional.
Maintenance Practices for Longevity
Regular care ensures that your shade structures maintain their beauty and functionality. This includes cleaning fabrics to prevent staining and the development of mildew, oiling hinges and moving parts on retractable awnings, and repairing or replacing any damaged components promptly.
Conclusion
Adding shade to your pool area is a smart investment that can greatly enhance your outdoor lifestyle. By understanding the types of structures available, the factors to consider, the benefits they bring, and how to maintain them, you can choose the perfect addition to your poolside paradise.
Remember that while these structures are practical, they also hold an aesthetic role, so take the time to select a shade solution that not only protects but also embodies the style and ambience you want for your pool area. Contact the friendly team at Newcastle Swimming Pools if you need a hand selecting the best shading for your fibreglass pool!
Shade Structures For Your Pool: What You Need To Know
Basking in the sun by the pool—what could be more idyllic? As delightful as a sunny poolside day sounds, prolonged exposure to the sun is neither pleasant nor safe. Installing a shade structure transforms your pool area into a comfortable oasis where you can protect your skin and enjoy the great outdoors without the risk of overexposure to harmful rays. If you're considering a shade upgrade for your beloved pool, it's crucial to understand the different types, what factors to consider, the benefits, and how to best install and maintain these structures. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about integrating shade into your pool area, ensuring that every pool day is a perfect day.
Types of Shade Structures
When considering shade for your pool, you’re spoilt for choice with a variety of options each bringing its own aesthetic and functional advantages.
Umbrellas
The quintessential poolside parasol, umbrellas are a versatile option suited for their adjustability according to the sun’s trajectory. They come in a wide range of sizes, colours, and materials, making them ideal for smaller pool areas or for those seeking a flexible shading solution.
Pergolas
For a touch of elegance and sophistication, the permanent structure of a pergola provides a more solid shade option. Often covered in climbing plants, pergolas create a beautiful natural canopy that brings a resort-like atmosphere to your backyard.
Gazebos
Larger and more enclosed than pergolas, gazebos are a social hub that provides not just shade but shelter from the elements. They can be customised to include seating or even an additional poolside bar, making them perfect for those who entertain frequently.
Sail Shades
Modern and minimalist, sail shades are a stylish option known for their high UV protection and air of contemporary cool. Typically crafted from durable fabric, sail shades come in various geometric shapes that can complement any design scheme.
Retractable Awnings
Perfect for those who like flexibility, retractable awnings offer adjustable cover at the touch of a button. They span across large pool areas, providing ample shade when necessary and retracting neatly when not in use.
Each of these structures serves a different purpose, so it’s important to evaluate your specific needs and the characteristics of your pool area before making a choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shade Structure
Beyond personal taste and the aesthetic of your outdoor area, there are several practical factors that should influence your decision when selecting the right shade structure.
Size and Shape of the Pool Area
Whether you have a large rectangular pool or a small free-form one, the size and layout of your pool area will dictate the size and number of shade structures that will fit best. You also need to consider where the sun hits your pool area throughout the day to ensure that your shade solution offers protection when you need it most.
Material Durability
Poolside shade structures are subjected to not just sun and rain, but also chlorinated water and blowing debris. It’s essential that the materials are up to the task. Look for UV resistant fabrics, corrosion-resistant metals, and quality timber for structures that will last.
Design Aesthetics
Your shade structure should blend seamlessly with your overall outdoor design. Consider colours and shapes that complement your existing poolside décor for a polished look.
Installation and Maintenance Requirements
Some shade structures are more complex to install than others. Gazebos and pergolas, for example, may involve construction and permits, while umbrellas could be more straightforward DIY projects. Maintenance routines should also match your preferences and capacity—sail shades are relatively low-maintenance, while pergolas may require more care due to their living cover.
Consider these factors in tandem with your personal style to select a shade structure that ticks all the boxes.
Benefits of Pool Shade Structures
The advantages of having shade near your pool go beyond comfort and aesthetics. By providing a cool retreat from the sun’s rays, shade can enhance relaxation and enjoyment by creating a pleasant ambience. Additionally, it helps protect swimmers from excessive sun exposure, promoting skin health and overall well-being.
Sun Protection
The most obvious benefit is the protection from harmful UV rays that prolonged sun exposure can bring. A good shade structure ensures that you can enjoy your pool without worrying about sunburn or long-term damage to your skin.
Enhanced Outdoor Comfort
By reducing the heat of the midday sun, shade structures create a cooler environment that invites you to linger by the pool for longer. They also protect the flooring around your pool, keeping it cooler underfoot.
Increasing Property Value
A well-designed and meticulously maintained pool area not only enhances the value of your property but also creates an inviting oasis for relaxation and entertainment. Prospective home buyers are frequently captivated by the allure of a thoughtfully curated outdoor living space that offers a safe, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing environment for unwinding with family and friends.
Installation Tips and Maintenance
Ensuring your shade structure is correctly installed not only guarantees its functionality but also your safety.
Proper Installation Techniques
Depending on the type of structure, you may need to anchor poles, secure fabric or build a more complex framework. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and, if in doubt, consult with a professional.
Maintenance Practices for Longevity
Regular care ensures that your shade structures maintain their beauty and functionality. This includes cleaning fabrics to prevent staining and the development of mildew, oiling hinges and moving parts on retractable awnings, and repairing or replacing any damaged components promptly.
Conclusion
Adding shade to your pool area is a smart investment that can greatly enhance your outdoor lifestyle. By understanding the types of structures available, the factors to consider, the benefits they bring, and how to maintain them, you can choose the perfect addition to your poolside paradise.
Remember that while these structures are practical, they also hold an aesthetic role, so take the time to select a shade solution that not only protects but also embodies the style and ambience you want for your pool area. Contact the friendly team at Newcastle Swimming Pools if you need a hand selecting the best shading for your fibreglass pool!
