Wow! We're less than three weeks from the “official” start of summer, but if you're like Gil and me, you've already had to scramble a few times to cool down. We consider it 'shades' of things to come in the next few months, so we turned to HouseLogic for some smart ideas for quickly creating some shade (without breaking much of a sweat!) at your house.
You can use a portable awning to create an instant shady hideaway anywhere – not just right next to your house (which is what those are retractable awnings, and they work up to 12 feet from your home). You can create up to 160 square feet of shade for less than $2,000 (for a manually-operated awning), which is especially great is your lawn is somewhat barren. Speaking of those retractable awnings; they're certainly still available and a great option for many home owners. You can even get the works motorized, for hassle-free opening and closing.
Umbrellas – they're not just for rain anymore! As a matter of fact, you can buy a patio umbrella just about anywhere (including your local grocery store). The variety of models is nearly endless; you can get them as a stand-alone item, or find one to slip into a hole on your patio table. Just be sure to go with an umbrella that can be positioned, so that you block out those rays no matter where you're sitting.
Another nifty solution is a canopy or gazebo for your patio – made of fabric, and perfect for evening entertaining. Prices range from $50 (at Target) up, depending on the options you desire; you'll pay more for lights and netting, but if it's exactly what you need or want, the cost shouldn't be prohibitive.
Of course, you can always take the greenest route for creating shade – unfortunately, it's also the slowest – by planting shade trees. If you don't want to wait twenty years to cool off, you do have some options. You can plant faster-growing varieties, or you can pay more up front by ordering big trees (you'll definitely get a return on your investment). Check with your local nursery or garden center for the best varieties to suit your property and your tastes.
What are your ideas for creating shade at your house? Leave your comments below; we'd love to hear them!
The Marchany TeamKNOWS central New Jersey. We're right where you are, whether you're in South Brunswick or Monroe (Middlesex County). If you're looking for a terrific new home in Mercer County, we're prepared to search for your place in the sun in Princeton Junction, East Windsor, West Windsor, and Robbinsville. And if you're ready to put your Franklin Park or Hillsborough (Somerset County) home on the market, we're prepared to find the buyers who are looking for your home. Call The Marchany Team today at (732) 997-0019, and don't forget to “Like” us on Facebook! We are dedicated to helping you in every way possible.
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