How to Add Shade on a Deck

Build a Pergola

• 1

  Add posts to post cores and screw them to the deck flooring. Use pressure treated materials that are weather-resistant.

• 2

  Cut support beams with a saw to the length between posts. Use a jigsaw to create a rounded notch. Screw in place.

• 3

  Add cross beams with slats across the structure. Add diagonal braces and screw in place. Fit the top slats into place.

• 4

  Add fabric over the top of the pergola to add shade in between the pergola slats. Roll shade cloth over the pergola. Leave 8 inches of excess fabric on each side. Hammer nails about every 12 inches to secure the cloth on one side. Continue to hammer nails around the perimeter of the pergola and then nail in the interior support beams. Use a box cutter to cut off any excess fabric.

Other Methods of Adding Shade

• 5

  Add awnings to the side of the house for a different option. Several options are available to provide varying degrees of shade. Cafe awnings provide a small amount of shade to the side of the deck. Canopy awnings are ideal for a smaller area, such as a dining area. Retractable awnings can cover a larger portion of the deck.

• 6

  Place large umbrellas on the deck. Add a set of table and chairs with an umbrella that covers them. The umbrella should be large enough to cover the table so that guests can enjoy a meal in the shade.

• 7

  Erect a decorative tent over a portion of the deck. Many options are available that can provide plenty of shade. Some models also include screening to keep away pests.

• 8

  Place potted trees around the perimeter of the deck. Over time the trees will grow and will make a wall of shade.

• 9

  Plant trees in the ground near the deck to add shade to the sides of the deck. Use trees that will grow quickly, such as Eastern White Pine, Northern Red Oak or Freeman Maple trees.