THROWING SHADE

There are many options when it comes to staying out of the sun in your backyard

Here comes the sun ... but are you ready for it? As the days keep getting brighter, and we spend more time outside, we'll inevitably need a respite from relentless rays. That's where shade-giving solutions come in.

Whether you have a yard, patio or balcony, you can incorporate spots to enjoy the breeze without overheating. Consider these strategies for a more comfortable spring and summer.

1. Go for a gazebo or pergola.

If you have a bigger budget — and a bigger space — you can install a more permanent solution like these structures. Not sure what the difference is?

“Gazebos, unlike pergolas, have a closed roof,” says the Family Handyman website. “Most gazebos are raised off the ground and rounded, while pergolas are rectangular and connected to a hard ground surface like a patio.”

If you choose a pergola, there are many ways to cover its roof. Corrugated aluminum is easy to install and has a more industrial look, says the Martha Stewart website, while vining ivy offers a more organic vibe.

Another natural option is to spread reed mats over the roof.

“Reed mats provide a similar feel to a traditional pergola, only they offer just a bit more shade and lend a rugged, earthy esthetic,” the site says.

“Simply attach them to an open structure with sturdy twine or zip ties and enjoy your new spot of backyard shade.”

Gazebos, meanwhile, are more of a one-and-done solution. They come in many silhouettes and design esthetics. Add outdoor curtains or retractable screens to either option for more coverage.

2. Use an umbrella.

Umbrellas are both storage-friendly and versatile — you can open them when you need extra shade and close them when you don't. You can buy them standalone or with a patio table set, regular size or extra large. The HGTV website recommends the Belham Living Patio Umbrella, while the Bob Villa website's best overall pick is the Safavieh Venice 9 ft. Outdoor Tilt Umbrella.

For more coverage, try a shade sail. “All it takes is a triangular-cut piece of fabric with eyelets punched in the corners. Use strong twine or rope to attach the shade to poles, the side of the house, or nearby trees,” says the Bob Villa site.

3. Combine seating with shade.

If you have a smaller space, like a balcony or mini-patio, a 2-in-1 solution might be best. You can find chairs and benches with sides that extend overhead to form an arch or roof. Hammocks can come with canopies or pergola tops.

And for those who have a larger area, an outdoor canopy bed offers peak relaxation. You can buy a premade one or make one yourself.

“Start with a bed and then build a wooden frame around it,” says website The Spruce. “Then you'll just need to hang up some outdoor curtains for the back, sides and front.”

There are many other ways to create shade in your outdoor space — loggias, fabric awnings, canvas tents, arbours and cabanas all work. Or, you can go old school with the basic shade tree. “These can help save on energy bills if they tower over your home, and you can even use them to hang hammocks, swings, or beautiful solar lights that flicker on at dusk,” says the Martha Stewart site.