Home Garden

Easy Up Shade Structure

Portable shade canopies, also called easy-up canopies or shades or pop-up canopies, are lightweight tent structures with open sides. Many RV parks and campgrounds, beaches and fairs are dotted with these coverings to provide shelter during the summer. Homes and hotels use portable shade canopies for outdoor and backyard events. Easy-up shades are available at many home improvement and sporting goods stores in a range of sizes and colors.
  1. Uses

    • Portable shade canopies such as the Easy Up Shade provide a seasonal and temporary structure to protect against sun exposure. These structures are usually designed as one-piece units that can be folded and compactly stored.

      Consider using a portable canopy in your patio or backyard. You can even set it up to create a dining area while camping or at the park.

      Some shade canopies are large enough for parties and outdoor festivities such as fairs and tailgating events. Standard sizes are 10 feet x 10 feet or 12 feet by 12 feet, with each side at a height around six feet.

      Most canopies are configured like a tent for occupants to stand, with a higher center point, over 8 feet tall. Choose a canopy that provides adequate space to fit tables and chairs and check the adjustable height options that would be useful as a shade during the day.

      See whether other options are available that would enhance the utility of the structure for future needs, such as zipper or snap-on screens for wind or rain protection.

      The shade canopies are wide enough to accommodate tables and chairs for summertime activities or for a garden party. Pack a portable canopy to use on short trips to the beach or park to serve as an easily visible center for family refreshments and supplies.

    Assembly

    • Most manufacturers and distributors recommend that two people unfold and expand the shade canopy, to create a uniform and balanced structure. Tools aren't required.

      Carefully grip one corner rail and instruct your helper to take hold of the opposite corner rail. Each should hold the frame slightly off the ground while pulling in opposite directions. Repeat with the other side (each taking an opposite corner) until the frame is completely expanded.

      If the shade canopy has a separate covering, attach this top over the frame and secure. The side legs are telescopic, which can be pushed out to extend and locked to the desired height. Coordinate extending a pair of legs with your helper and repeat on the other side.

      For windy conditions, consider anchoring the legs with stakes (using the holes at the foot of each leg) or attaching weights to prevent the canopy from being blown over.

      Optional side panels are attached to rails at each corner and secured to the top covering with a zipper or Velcro straps.