A pergola is the perfect summer addition to your Calgary backyard. They give a sense of definition when placed out in your garden; a gathering space for evening entertainment or just a place to cool down under some dappled shade during your summer gardening. When placed on your patio, they give you the sense of an outdoor room without the cost and time of a full extension. No matter where you put your pergola, it’s always a good idea to maximize your comfort level with some pergola shades.
Natural Shade
The easiest way to provide some shade for your pergola is to buy one of the many climbing plants that flourish in Calgary’s climate and put them in a big pot by the foot of each post. Over time, they will grow up and over your pergola and give you the classic Italian pergola aesthetic. Consider plants like jasmine or wisteria if you want to add some summer scents, or go for classics like climbing roses or ivy if you want quick growth and some easy colours.
Immediate Shade
The only problem with choosing to grow your pergola shade is that it can take a long time for the plants to grow tall enough to provide full coverage. If you want more immediate cover, you need to think about how to add shade in the form of fabric, screens or a combination of both. You’ll be able to get a degree of privacy as well as keeping cool and comfortable all summer long.
Shade On Top
When most people think about sun shade enhancements for pergolas, they think about adding layers to the lattice on the top of the pergola. This is a quick way to get some shade as they will fit directly onto your pergola. A simple option is a sheet of fabric cut to the same size of your pergola with a little excess to come down over the edge. If you’ve got a bigger budget or like your outdoor gadgets, you can install mechanical shutters between each layer of the lattice, allowing you to open and close them depending on the weather and your personal preferences.
Shade On The Side
If you’re looking for a little privacy in combination with your pergola shade, then you’ll want to think about screens or fabric that attach to the sides of your pergola. Don’t immediately think of options that will completely block out the sun (and therefore your view) as it’ll be hard to see the benefit of shade on the sides. Instead, think about a loose weave screen, similar to one you put over your windows in summer, that will keep the bugs and prying eyes out, but allow you to see the garden and relax in peace. You can also install lightweight, neutral tone fabric that will float and billow in the wind like sails while giving you shade and privacy at the same time.
