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Most of us nowadays are very conscious of the harm that the sun can actually do to us if we allow ourselves to self indulge in its rays while we sunbathe so to prevent any burning and suchlike it is necessary to use some form of shading to protect ourselves so that we can still be outside enjoying the warm weather and socialise without any risk. There are many forms of outdoor shade that we can use for this purpose ranging from a simple umbrella up to an awning that extends from our house. If we are lucky enough to have a large area for the shading then a permanent outdoor shade is the ideal solution but for those of us that are not so lucky and are limited in space, portable shading is required that can be moved when not in use. Most forms of shading can be categorised into a few smaller sections so that looking around for shading that meets your needs can be simplified.

Sun Umbrellas

For the most portable designs of outdoor shading then a sun umbrella has to be the first choice. There are two main designs of these , the first is an umbrella that will sit in the centre of a patio table and the stem of the umbrella passes through a hole in the table where it is secured by means of a heavy stand or even a bucket of sand. These are fine if you wish to only shade the patio area itself and they can be bought in a range of sizes up to 11 feet in diameter but if you wish to move them around to shade other areas then the better design is the umbrella that is pivoted from a side stand and can be moved anywhere and leant over the persons or items that you wish to shade.

Pergolas

These are a solid structure that are fixed into position and can be purchased in plastic, iron or wooden frames. They are a basic framework and the sides are open but the shade is provided by a thin cover on top or if you wish the top can be left open and the actual framework will provide the shade. Often pergola owners will grow climbing plants or vines up the columns of these and allow them to spread across the top creating a natural shade that is pleasing to the eye.

Awnings

If you wish to shade one side of your house then an awning is for you. The are attached to the wall of the house and can be retracted and extended whenever you wish to use them or not. This gives you the advantage of not taking up floor space in your garden as all of the fittings are fixed above the lower floor window height. Some models are even operated by remote control but the cheaper versions will require you to use them manually. All awnings have a sheet of fabric or polyester that is stretched over the frame work when extended and this needs to be kept clean when not in use.

Canopies

Canopies are slightly different to awnings as the top fittings are still attached to the house or another structure but there are poles at the open end to support the shading. The poles can be detachable so that the canopy can be retracted when not in use so that the garden space is free again but it is worth noting the difference between a canopy and awning when making your choice. Canopies will use the same material as awnings and this too will need to be kept clean when not in use.

Suppliers of Outdoor Shading

• www.jamesrobertshaw.co.uk
  This company has been trading for nearly 150 years, initially they were founded to supply shops and commercial buildings with awnings but moved into the domestic market to meet the demand of the home owners. They can supply customers with personalised awnings or canopies and most of their models can be purchased as motorised items if required.
• www.canopiesuk.com
  This is another company that deals with e public and commercial sector. They even have a service where they will come and survey your project so that you get the best possible advice as to which outdoor shading suits your needs the best. Prices are only given over the phone as in more cases than not canopies or awnings will need to be designed specifically for the available space but a full brochure can be sent to you to browse through.
• www.yorkshirecanopies.co.uk
  Yorkshire canopies specialise in purpose built canopies for your home and can also provide car ports and fixed door canopies. They were established in 1995 and have built up a large customer database by selling their quality products. Prices are also available over the phone and all of their products are fully guaranteed against wind damage and snow loading.