A covered deck provides shade and protection from the elements, expanding your outdoor living space. With so many options for deck covers, you can create the perfect shaded oasis right outside your home. Here are 24 fantastic covered deck ideas to shade your outdoor area.

Pergola Deck Cover

Pergolas make an elegant and aesthetically pleasing deck cover. The open slatted design allows dappled sunlight to filter through while still providing shade. Pergolas come in many styles, from rustic wood to modern metal and can be outfitted with climbing vines or hanging plants.

Pros

Provides filtered shade and sunlight
Visually appealing open-air design
Made of durable materials like wood, vinyl, or metal
Allows you to grow vines or hanging flowers for added beauty

Cons

Does not offer full protection from rain
Can be expensive to install
Vines and plants need regular trimming and maintenance

Patio Umbrella

A large patio umbrella is an easy way to add shade on a budget. Umbrellas come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Opt for a tilt and crank umbrella for easy adjustable coverage. Use a sturdy weighted base or install a permanent umbrella hole into the deck.

Pros

Inexpensive way to add shade
Portable and adjustable coverage
Easy to open and close as needed
Variety of colors and patterns available

Cons

Does not offer full rain protection
Needs weighted base or installed footings
May need to be taken down in windy weather
Only provides shade directly under the canopy

Retractable Awning or Canopy

Retractable awnings and canopies mount to the side of a home or above a deck to provide covered shade when extended. When not in use, the awning retracts neatly out of sight. Manual or motorized systems allow you to control the amount of cover.

Pros

Provides adjustable shade when needed
Retracts out of sight when not used
Offers protection from sun and light rain
Motorized options for easy remote control

Cons

Installation can be expensive
Manual crank models need effort to operate
May not withstand heavy winds when extended
Can only cover limited deck area

Patio Shade Sails

For a dramatic look, install triangular shade sails across your deck area. The sail fabric comes in UV-resistant canvas or poly shade cloth. You can use sails of different shapes and sizes to provide customized coverage.

Pros

Unique, visually appealing look
Provides flexible shade coverage
Sun and UV protection from sail fabric
Designs available for any size space

Cons

Does not offer rain protection
Difficult to self-install, often needs professional assistance
Fabric may need taken down in high winds
Does not provide full coverage

Outdoor Curtains and Screens

Install outdoor curtain panels or screens around your deck perimeter to block sun while preserving outward views. Curtains slide open when shade is not needed. Screens diffuse sunlight and buffer wind while allowing breeze to flow through.

Pros

Lightweight and easy to install
Allows breeze to flow through
Softens sunlight while preserving views
Provides flexible shading as needed
Panels stack or slide out of the way
Cons
Minimal rain and wind protection
Screens require frequent cleaning
Curtains may flap in strong winds
Not as sturdy as permanent structures

Roll Down Shade Screens

Roller shade screens offer the ability to filter sunlight and provide coverage when you want it. Manual or remote-controlled screens rolled down from a retractable reel above the deck when needed.

Pros

Provides adjustable sun protection
Easy to retract out of sight
Remote options for convenient control
Can cover large areas
Allows airflow when lowered

Cons

Installation is expensive
Minimal rain and wind protection
Mesh screens require cleaning
Not designed for heavy snow loads

Aluminum Patio Cover

For a sturdier option, have permanent aluminum framing installed above your deck designed for shade purposes. Roof panels are available in clear polycarbonate, colored plastic, or tinted glass.

Pros

Durable metal framework built to last
Clear or tinted roof panels filter sunlight
Withstands weather better than fabric
Provides continuous coverage for full deck

Cons

Very expensive professional installation
Roof panels need cleaned and replaced over time
Permanent structure limits future deck changes
Can block views from the house

Outdoor Shade Sails

Fabric sail canopies in colorful triangle shapes can be attached above decks to create a whimsical, sheltered space. The UV-resistant canvas diffuses sunlight while allowing breezes to flow through.

Pros

Provides a festive, playful look
Lightweight fabric diffuses sunlight
Allows air circulation
Install sail shades anywhere

Cons

Minimal rain and wind protection
May flap and move in windy conditions
Requires professional installation
Ongoing fabric maintenance required

Motorized Folding Awning

Remote-controlled awnings extend out to cover a deck at the push of a button. When shade is no longer needed, they retract neatly out of sight. Wall-mounted or freestanding models are available.

Pros

Provides on-demand shade
Easy to operate by remote control
Can cover large areas
Wall-mount disappears when closed

Cons

Very expensive installation cost
Provides minimal rain protection
Subject to storm damage if left extended
Freestanding models take up deck space

Vertical Hang-Down Shade Screens

Install vertical solar shade screens around your deck that can roll up or down as needed. The screens diffuse harsh sunlight while allowing cool breezes and views.

Pros

Solar panels provide effective shade
Breeze flows through when lowered
Preserves outward views
Manual or motorized control

Cons

Minimal rain and wind protection
Mesh needs frequent cleaning
Installation is expensive
Only partial coverage when lowered

Outdoor Roller Blinds

Roller shades mounted above or alongside a deck provide customizable control of sunlight. Lower the perforated solar screens partially or fully when shade is needed.

Pros

Adjusts easily to control sun
Allows views and airflow
Disappears out of sight when retracted
Provides UV protection

Cons

Minimal rain and wind protection
Mesh needs periodic cleaning
Installation can be complex
Automated systems are pricey

Fixed Aluminum Roof

For full deck coverage, install a permanent aluminum roof frame with polycarbonate or corrugated metal roof panels. Roof supports mount to the home or standalone posts.

Pros

Provides complete rain and shade protection
Withstands all weather conditions
Metal roofing options for durability
Allows ceiling fans, lights, and speakers

Cons

Very expensive professional installation
Permanent structure limits future changes
Roof panels need periodic cleaning
Can obstruct views from windows

Lattice Wood Arbor

An open lattice wood arbor placed over a seating area creates a shaded bower. You can train climbing vines over the top for lush coverage.

Pros

Provides a secluded, cozy nest
Lets filtered light through
Supports climbing vines or hanging plants
Rustic design fits many home styles

Cons

Minimal rain protection
Vines need frequent trimming
May not cover large areas
Needs continued wood maintenance

Sun Shade Sail Canopies

For a splash of color, install triangular sun shade sails in vibrant colors or patterns above your deck. The polyester canvas diffuses light while allowing air to flow through.

Pros

Fun, whimsical look
Provides UV ray protection
Lightweight, easy to install
Allows breeze to pass through

Cons

Does not offer rain protection
May flap or sag over time
Triangular shape can’t cover some areas
Needs periodic fabric maintenance

Bamboo Shades

Rolling bamboo shades let you control sun exposure while preserving outward views. They provide natural texture and filtered light. Mount them above or alongside the deck as needed.

Pros

Adjusts easily for sun control
Natural bamboo look
Allows fresh air circulation
Durable and long-lasting

Cons

Provides minimal rain protection
Bamboo can warp or crack over time
Subject to some swaying in wind
Installation requires precision

Cantilever Retractable Awning

Cantilever awnings on adjustable arms extend out from the house above the deck to provide customized shade coverage. Close them up against the wall when not needed.

Pros

Provides adjustable on-demand shade
Easy manual or motorized operation
Can cover large deck areas
Folds out of sight when retracted

Cons

Very expensive installation cost
Minimal protection from rain
Can be damaged in severe storms
Arm placement limits some views

Wood Trellis

Position a wood trellis over part of the deck to support climbing vines. The vertical slats provide dappled sunlight while the vine covering creates a green canopy.

Pros

Natural wood look fits many home styles
Allows filtered sunlight through
Visually appealing with flowering vines
Defines a cozy, secluded spot

Cons

Minimal rain protection
Needs robust vines for full coverage
Vines require frequent trimming
Trellis requires wood maintenance

Retractable Roof Pergola

Retractable roof pergolas allow you to open and close the slatted roof as needed for sun protection. Close it completely for full shade or slide it open for an open-air feel.

Pros

Provides flexible shade coverage
Sliding roof disappears when open
Manual or motorized operation
Preserves views when retracted

Cons

Very expensive professional installation
May sag over time without roof support beams
Roof may leak during heavy rain
Moving parts require maintenance

Soft Canopy Cover

For quick installation, clamp a removable soft canopy cover above your deck. The lightweight polyester top provides sun shade while allowing views and airflow.

Pros

Lightweight, easy to install
Inexpensive way to add shade
UV-resistant fabric
Can be used only when needed

Cons

Minimal rain and wind protection
Fabric may billow or flap
Can only cover small areas
Needs removal for storms

Outdoor Patio Shades

Install rectangular folding patio shades that extend out from mounts on the side of your home. Close them up tight when not in use.

Pros

Provides shade as needed
Folds up neatly against home
Available in multiple colors/fabrics
Allows breeze when open

Cons

Can only cover small deck area
Minimal protection from rain
Susceptible to wind damage
Adds visual clutter when folded out

Freestanding Pergola

A freestanding wood or vinyl pergola provides an overhead structure for climbing vines. Place it over a sitting area for green shaded relaxation.

Pros

Provides a secluded shady spot
Allows filtered sunlight through
Visually appealing with flowering vines
Does not attach to home exterior

Cons

Minimal protection from rain
Not secured in high winds
Vines require year-round maintenance
Takes up floor space on deck

Pivot Arm Awning

Pivot arm awnings extend out from the house over the deck on adjustable arms. Crank them open for shade then fold the arms up tight when done.

Pros

Provides covered shade as needed
Adjustable arms to direct shade
Folds up flat against house
Durable metal construction

Cons

Requires professional installation
Does not provide rain protection
Noisy operation
Can look visually cluttered

Outdoor Roller Shades

Install roll-down screens that unfurl from an overhead reel system to block harsh sun on your deck. Control them manually or by remote.

Pros

Provides flexible sun control
Disappears out of sight when retracted
Allows views and airflow
Motorized options for convenience

Cons

Expensive installation cost
Minimal rain and wind protection
Mesh requires cleaning
Can experience mechanical issues

Aluminum Patio Cover Kit

Patio cover kits come with aluminum framing, roof panels, and all hardware needed to install a basic deck cover. Kits are customizable and cost less than hiring a professional.

Pros

Complete kits for DIY installation
More affordable than custom build
Made of durable aluminum
Allows you to handle design

Cons

Still requires construction skills
Not as robust as professional build
Design limits are pre-determined
Ongoing maintenance required

Solar Shade Sails

Triangular shade sails in UV-blocking fabric extend above decks to create colorful, sheltered space. Solar panels along the edges capture energy to power lights.

Pros

Provides UV ray protection
Fun, festive look
Solar panels power lighting
Allows airflow

Cons

Minimal rain protection
Susceptible to wind damage
Solar lights are less bright
Fabric needs maintenance

Retractable Louvered Roof

A louvered roof system retracts accordion-style to provide an open deck or closes to provide full shade coverage. Air circulates when panels are partially open.

Pros

Provides flexible sun protection
Disappears overhead when open
Motorized operation
Withstands all weather when closed

Cons

Very expensive professional installation
Cannot cover extremely large areas
Moving parts require maintenance
Permanent structure limits future changes

Freestanding Solar Shade Canopy

A small freestanding canopy with solar panels provides targeted shade over deck seating. Photovoltaic fabric offers UV protection while powering built-in LED lights.

Pros

Solar panel powers lighting
Provides UV ray protection
Easy to move as needed
Decorative design

Cons

Only covers small space
Minimal rain protection
LED lights less bright than wired
Entire unit requires storage in winter

Deck Parasol

Parasols on weighted portable bases provide moveable shade for hot spots around the deck. Close them up when winds pick up.

Pros

Easy to reposition shade
Inexpensive way to add cover
Portable bases for mobility
Available in fun colors/patterns

Cons

Minimal rain and wind protection
Can blow over if not weighted properly
Only provide shade directly underneath
Need to be closed, stored during storms

Conclusion

Adding shade elements to your outdoor deck creates an inviting, comfortable space for relaxing, dining, and entertaining. Pergolas, retractable awnings, shade sails, umbrella, screens, and canopy covers all provide options for controlling sun and exposure. Consider your budget, design aesthetics, and the amount of coverage needed to pick the best shading solutions for your deck area. Proper installation and continued maintenance are key to ensure your deck coverings withstand the weather and provide lasting sun protection.

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24 Covered Deck Ideas to Shade Your Outdoor Space

Pergola Deck Cover

Pros:

Provides filtered shade and sunlight
Visually appealing open-air design
Made of durable materials like wood, vinyl, or metal
Allows you to grow vines or hanging flowers for added beauty

Cons:

Does not offer full protection from rain
Can be expensive to install
Vines and plants need regular trimming and maintenance

Patio Umbrella

Pros:

Inexpensive way to add shade
Portable and adjustable coverage
Easy to open and close as needed
Variety of colors and patterns available

Cons:

Does not offer full rain protection
Needs weighted base or installed footings
May need to be taken down in windy weather
Only provides shade directly under the canopy

Retractable Awning or Canopy

Retractable awnings and canopies mount to the side of a home or above a deck to provide covered shade