A playground is a great place for kids to burn off some energy. But it can get hot out there, which means you need to make sure they stay cool and comfortable.
Shade structures are an excellent way of protection from the sun’s rays while still letting your children play outside. The following is a guide on the ten best shade structures for playgrounds that will help keep your kids happy and healthy this summer!
Things to Consider When Buying a Shade Structure for Playgrounds
What factors do you need to consider when purchasing a shade structure for your backyard? Whether you’re looking for some extra shade on hot days, want to create a shaded play area for your kids, or are looking for a new spot to relax in, there are several things you need to keep in mind. They include:
Installation
When shopping for a shade structure, one of the most important things to consider is how easy it will be to install. If you don’t have any experience with this type of project, make sure that the store where you buy your new structure offers installation services or can recommend someone who’s experienced in setting up these types of products.
Size
Another essential thing to consider is the size of the shade structure you’re looking for. If you have a small backyard, you don’t want to buy something that will take up too much space.
Conversely, if you have a large backyard, you’ll want to make sure you choose a product that can accommodate your needs.
Shape
What shape would best fit your needs? Rectangular, square, triangular, or something else entirely?
You’ll also want to consider the shape of the structure you’re looking for. If you have a specific spot in your backyard where you’d like to set it up, make sure the shade structure you choose is available in that size and shape.
Type
Do you want a permanent structure or something that can be taken down when not in use? If you’re looking for something that will stay up all year long, you’ll need to choose a permanent shade structure.
However, if you’re only looking for temporary shade, there are several options available that can be set up and taken down with ease.
Price
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a shade structure is how much you’re willing to spend. Like with anything else, you get what you pay for, so be prepared to shell out a little more for a high-quality product that will last for years.
However, some affordable options are also available, so you don’t have to break the bank to get the shade you need.
Ventilation
When purchasing a shade structure, one thing to keep in mind is how well it will ventilate. If you’re looking for a shady spot to sit and relax in, you’ll want something that has good ventilation.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something to provide shade during the hot summer months, make sure you choose a product that’s designed with adequate ventilation.
Wind resistance
Another thing to consider is how well the structure will hold up in high winds or inclement weather conditions like rain and snow. If it doesn’t come with any wind or weather resistance, you might want to choose a different structure.
Style
Do you want something that will blend in with your backyard, or do you want something that will stand out? If you’re looking for a structure that will complement your home and backyard, several options are available in different styles and colors.
However, if you’re looking for something more unique, some structures have been designed to be a focal point in your backyard.
Fabric
One factor often overlooked when purchasing a shade structure is the fabric. If you live in an area with high winds or thunderstorms, it might be wise to invest in something with good wind resistance.
On the other hand, if your backyard doesn’t receive much bad weather, you can afford to spend less on fabrics without worrying about them tearing or ripping.
UV protection
Another factor to consider when purchasing a shade structure is UV protection. If you live in an area with high amounts of sunlight, it’s essential to choose something that will protect against the sun’s rays.
This could be anything from choosing a fabric with good resistance to ultra-violet radiation or buying one with built-in SPF sunscreen.
Environment
Last but not least, what type of environment do you want the structure to go in? If it’s going under trees or another type of plant where there will be lots of leaves and debris, make sure you choose a product that can withstand contact with dirt and other debris.
10 Best Shade Structures for Playgrounds
Now that you’re aware of some of the things to keep in mind when purchasing a shade structure, here are ten of our favorite options:
1. Shade sails for playgrounds
Shade sails are a great option if you want to maximize your available space while still providing plenty of protection from the sun’s rays. They’re also very affordable, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
They also provide a large amount of shade without taking up too much space. However, they do have some drawbacks.
They can be challenging to install and are not recommended for high wind areas since they might blow over the playground structure itself.
2. Gazebo with mesh walls
Gazebos are a great choice for providing shade and shelter from the elements. They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs.
They’re also very affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-minded families. Mesh walls are perfect for this type of structure because they provide good ventilation and keep the bugs out.
3. Parasol shade for playgrounds
Parasol shade canopies are a great choice for playgrounds. They’re sturdy, which means they won’t blow over in windy areas.
These structures also provide excellent protection from the sun’s rays, making them ideal for protecting your child during sunny days. However, they can be pretty expensive, so they may not be ideal for families on a tight budget.
4. Pergola
A pergola is an excellent option for families who want something simple but attractive. They’re easy to install and provide excellent shade coverage with minimal effort or cost.
However, you can’t adjust their angle like you can with some of the other options on this list, making them less ideal in windy areas.
5. Awnings for playgrounds
Awnings are a great choice if you want to provide shade without taking up too much space. They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs.
They’re also very affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-minded families. However, they do have some drawbacks.
They tend to blow over easily in windy areas, and they don’t provide as much shade as some of the other options on this list.
6. Hampton Bay
Hampton Bay structures are a great choice for playgrounds because they are sturdy and stylish. They’re available in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one to fit your needs.
These structures provide excellent shade during the summer months but allow airflow on sunny days.
They come in various colors, so you can find one that will match your playground equipment or the décor of your home or business. However, they do have some drawbacks.
Because they don’t have sides, they can let in a lot of wind, and they’re one of the most expensive options on this list.
7. Trellis
A trellis is a great option for families who want attractive and functional things. They’re easy to install, provide excellent shade coverage, and allow you to adjust their angle in accordance with the sun throughout the day.
However, they aren’t very sturdy during high winds or heavy rains.
8. Canopy tents for playgrounds
Canopy tents are perfect for small children who need close supervision. They’re also easy to set up and take down, which is ideal if you plan on moving them around often.
They’re not as sturdy as some of the other options on this list, but they’re an excellent choice for short-term use or for areas that don’t get a lot of wind.
9. Umbrellas for playgrounds
Umbrellas are a popular choice for providing shade in small spaces. They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs.
They’re also very affordable, making them an excellent option for budget-minded families. However, they do have some drawbacks.
They tend to blow over easily in windy areas, and they don’t provide as much shade as some of the other options on this list.
10. Tunnel tents for playgrounds
Tunnel tents are great because they provide shade without blocking any other fun items on your playground. They’re also easy to set up and takedown, making them a popular choice for families who often move their play structures.
They work well in all weather conditions but can be unstable during high winds.
Conclusion
No matter what type of shade structure you choose for your playground, it’s sure to provide hours of fun and protection from the sun’s rays. Be sure to read reviews before making your purchase, and consider the climate where you live when making your decision.
Once you have the correct shade for your backyard playground the next thing is to make sure to keep bugs away so your kids can enjoy themselves.
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