Budget Shade Ideas For Your Backyard

The Australian sun is renowned for its intensity, making sun protection essential for our skin, outdoor furniture, and overall comfort. Thankfully, affordable and versatile shade solutions are now widely available across Australia, catering to every home, outdoor space, and lifestyle need.

Whether you're looking to create shade over your outdoor dining area, swimming pool, above-ground pool, sitting area, or even shield indoor spaces from the sun's rays, we've got a range of options to suit your needs.

Our outdoor shade solutions offer sun protection, cooling solutions, protect outdoor furniture all while enhancing aesthetics - on a budget. 

Stay cool, protected, and enjoy the outdoors with ease!

Option 1 - Umbrellas 

You can shade an outdoor dining or lounge areas plus sun loungers and kids pools with affordable umbrellas.

Umbrellas offer great sun protection, versatility - as they are easy to move, they protect furniture, easy to store and increase usable outdoor space. 

Key things to look for with your umbrella selection: 

1. Always consider the wind and make sure you choose a sturdy base for your umbrella. We have affordable options for umbrellas bases here. 
2. Look for umbrellas with adjustable poles or tilt mechanisms to angle the canopy for maximum shade. This is especially useful for mornings and late afternoons when the sun is lower.
3. Consider the size required. Outdoor umbrellas come in various sizes and shapes, such as round, square, and rectangular. Select one that provides adequate coverage for the area you want to shade.

Pair your umbrella with other shade solutions like gazebos or shade cloth for large spaces. This layered approach can keep you cool while adding a decorative touch to your outdoor area.

Discover our extensive selection of backyard umbrellas to enhance your outdoor space.

Option 2 - Shade Cloth 

Shade cloths are designed to block harmful UV rays, protecting your skin, outdoor furniture, and plants.

With UV-blocking percentages ranging from 30% to 95%, they help create a safer outdoor environment.

An added benefit is their ability to reduce heat by blocking the sunlight exposure. 

Key things to look for with your shade cloth selection: 

1. Shade cloths come in different density percentages, indicating how much sunlight they block: They generally have three categories of shade coverage. 30-50%: Ideal for gardens and plants needing partial shade - such as the 1.83x30m 30% UV Shade Cloth Shadecloth Sail Garden Mesh Roll Outdoor Green. 70-90%: Suitable for patios, seating areas, and spaces requiring more sun protection - such as the 70% UV Sun Shade Cloth Shade Cloth Sail Roll Mesh Garden Outdoor 1.83x50m Black 90-95%: Best for extreme UV protection, such as around pools, playgrounds, or parking areas such as the 90% Sun Shade Cloth Shadecloth Sail Roll Mesh Outdoor 195gsm 1.83x30m
2. The colour of the shade cloth affects its functionality including Light Colors (Beige, White): Reflect more heat and light, creating a cooler atmosphere. Dark Colors (Black, Green): Absorb heat and block more sunlight, offering stronger UV protection. Neutral Tones: Blend seamlessly with outdoor aesthetics. Here we have the variety of colours that you might need - shade cloth range. 

Compared to permanent structures like pergolas or roofs, shade cloths are a more affordable option while still providing effective sun protection, they are easy to instal, lightweight and their are many styles and options available to suit every space and budget. 

Explore our budget-friendly shade cloths to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Option 3 - Gazebos and Marquees 

A gazebo or marquee is a versatile and elegant structure that can provide ample outdoor shade - they can be used as a multi-functional space such as an event space, lounge space, dining area and are great for kids parties too! Gazebos and marquees are stylish and affordable and come in a variety of colours.

Here’s how to effectively use a gazebo for shade:

1. Ensure the gazebo roof is made of UV-resistant fabric, wood, or metal to block harmful rays effectively. For extra protection, consider gazebos with double-layered canopies or weatherproof materials.
2. Install side panels, curtains, or mosquito netting to create additional shade and privacy. These features are especially helpful for blocking the sun at lower angles or providing relief from wind and insects.

Gazebos are great for those long summer days, entertaining outside by the pool and having a sun protected space for guests - without blowing any budgets! 

Browse our wide selection of gazebos, available in various colors and sizes to suit any budget.

View a great range of affordable outdoor shade options here.