The outdoor shade structure is an essential add-on for your backyard. Not only can it provide protection on that particular outdoor area, but it will also add aesthetic value to your property. However, there are so many different options when it comes to outdoor shade structures.

This is why many homeowners get torn and find it challenging to choose which outdoor shade structure is the best for their backyard. Thus, this article was created to help homeowners decide which outdoor shade structure is the best for them.

Here are the different types of outdoor shade structures you can choose from with their pros and cons.

Pergola

A pergola is one of the popular shade options for the garden and patio. It can be installed as freestanding, or it can be attached to your home. This type of outdoor shade structure was created not to protect but provide excellent air circulation and let the sunshine on the outdoor living area.

The most common use of pergola is to create an extension of your home. For example, if you plan to create an extension of your dining area or kitchen, a pergola is the most popular option.

If you consider installing a pergola on your outdoor space, you might want to check out its pros and cons first.

Pros

Pergolas provide excellent air circulation within the space you are protecting. It is designed to provide great air circulation in your outdoor space.
It is easy to maintain and will not be costly.
Most homeowners who opt to install a pergola in their backyard love the fact that it does not obstruct the view of their house.
Pergolas are aesthetically pleasing and can be designed according to your liking. You can add curtains, hang flowers or grow vines in it.

Cons

The most noticeable drawback of a pergola is that it doesn’t provide complete protection. Pergolas are designed only to provide partial protection. UV rays can still reach your outdoor living area as well as the rain, which can damage your furniture.
Because pergolas are made from wood, it is more prone to termites which can be very inconvenient.
The material used in making pergolas fades over time.

Shade Sail

Shade sails are becoming very popular nowadays, especially here in Australia. As a result, many homeowners opt to install shade sails on their property compared to other outdoor shade structures. The reason behind this is because of its benefits which we will talk about later.

There are so many options when it comes to shade sail materials. You can choose to have a cloth shade sail or go for a waterproof fabric. The material you will choose depends on your purpose and location.

For instance, if your location is prone to rain, a waterproof shade sail would be your best bet. Furthermore, if your outdoor living area is not directly exposed to the sunlight, then a cloth shade sail would be an excellent option for you as it can still let the light of the sun penetrate.

Aside from the fact that you have many material options for shade sails, it is still best to check out its pros and cons before even deciding to install one.

Pros

Shade sails are easy to install. There are even shade sail DIY kits available that you can buy.
If it is easy to install, it is also easy to remove. If a hurricane is coming, you will never have to spend a lot of time and effort dismantling a shade sail, as it can be easy and quick.
Shade sails are relatively inexpensive. It is one of the affordable outdoor shade structures available in the market.
Installing shade sails on your property will also add aesthetic value to it. Shade sails are sleek and are best for a minimalist approach.
Not only can it shade you from the sun or protect you from the rain, but it can also provide great ventilation.

Cons

One of the most obvious drawbacks of shade sails is that they cannot withstand storms. It is always advised to remove shade sails when a storm is coming because they will get damaged.
Shade sails are not advisable to use in an outdoor kitchen or grilling area. There is a considerable risk of fire if you cook or grill under shade sail. However, if it is unavoidable, you must follow some safety tips in cooking under shade sail structures. Always keep the fire away from your shade sail as an extra precaution.
Finding a location to attach a shade sail is difficult.
The shade sail can be easily ripped or have holes due to falling branches, birds, and other natural factors present outdoors.

Outdoor Umbrella

Another great option for homeowners who do not have a budget is the outdoor umbrella. It is a great add on to your outdoor area, especially in your patio or pool area. It is also pleasing to the eyes and a good accessory for your property.

Many luxury resorts and restaurants use an outdoor umbrella in their outdoor areas because of how luxurious it looks. However, just like with other outdoor shade structure options, an outdoor umbrella also has its sets of pros and cons.

Pros

Outdoor umbrellas are highly chosen by many because of their portability. You can easily transfer an outdoor umbrella from one place to another without any hassle. If you are looking for this kind of feature in an outdoor shade structure, the outdoor umbrella is the only one that can provide you with that.
If you install an outdoor umbrella, you can easily upgrade it to add lights to it. Having lights installed on an outdoor umbrella will increase its aesthetic value.
It is great for small spaces because it is freestanding and is small in size.
Easy to install and remove. You will have to crank open or close the umbrella.
It is another inexpensive outdoor shade structure option.

Cons

It can only protect and provide shade in a small area. If you are looking for an outdoor shade structure that can cover a large area, an outdoor umbrella is not the best option for you.
If your location is prone to rain, it is not advisable to install an outdoor umbrella.
An outdoor umbrella does not give you great privacy.

Gazebo

A gazebo is a very uncommon outdoor shade structure that can be found in residential property. It is not advisable to install a gazebo in a residential backyard. Gazebos are best for commercial locations such as hotels and resorts or restaurants because of their drawbacks which you can check below.

Pros

Having a gazebo on your property will increase the appraisal value of your home in the market.
It is a very effective outdoor shade structure from both the sun, rain, and snow.
You can install a screen around it or install blinds for added protection and privacy.
A gazebo can be upgraded. You can turn it into an outdoor bedroom, outdoor living room, or kitchen and dining.

Cons

Constructing a gazebo on your property is expensive. You will need to hire a contractor for the job, plus you have to purchase a lot of materials to ensure its quality.
A gazebo requires a huge space. If you do not have enough space in your backyard, you may want to consider the other outdoor shade structure option instead.
Maintenance is costly and requires more time and effort.
You cannot easily change the design of a gazebo. If the time comes, you get bored with its design. You will need to hire a contractor again to remodel the gazebo, which means another expensive expense.

Pavilion

Another outdoor shade structure that you can opt to install in your backyard is the pavilion. Unlike the gazebo, a pavilion has open sides, which can provide better air circulation. It is commonly installed to cover a deck or a sitting area.

A pavilion is the biggest outdoor shade structure you can have. This is the best option if you want to have a cozy outdoor living area that can be completely protected even if it is raining hard.

But before anything else, let us first go through its pros and cons and weigh the benefits it provides against the drawback it possesses.

Pros

A pavilion provides the best shade of all the outdoor shade structures mentioned.
It is made with a solid roof which can protect anyone and anything under it.
Great for home extensions.
Highly upgradeable and customizable according to your needs. You can also add walls to a pavilion to make it more secure and for added privacy.
It can increase the value of your property.

Cons

The same with the gazebo, a pavilion requires contractors to construct it. It needs more materials and is more expensive.
It will require a huge space on your property. If you have a small property, this option is not advisable.
If you want to change the design, you will need to spend again and conduct a remodelling project.

Choose a Shade Outdoor Structure Wisely

You might be enticed to install a specific outdoor shade structure on your property even if the cons outweigh the pros. When it comes to deciding which outdoor structure you should install, you should choose wisely. Do not rush. Study each option and weigh the pros and cons properly.