Having your swimming pool exposed to the sunlight is a great way to keep the water temperate and could mean you won’t have to resort to using a swimming pool heater. If your pool is always exposed to the sun, it could be uncomfortable to spend time relaxing poolside because it could just be too hot.
With a swimming pool that isn’t strategically shaded, you may find yourself spending time in the pool but returning to the house to escape the heat of the sun rather than lounging in your outdoor living space. What can you do to shade the pool without taking away all of the sun’s benefits? There are many ways in which to shade the pool and outdoor living space while still taking full advantage of the sun’s rays to help keep the water warm.
Planting trees is one way to provide an escape from the hottest part of the day, but with trees come leaves and these can be problematic when it comes to keeping your pool clean. Trees can also draw birds and bugs, and this could lead to other messes around your swimming pool and bring with them their own unique maintenance issues.
When it comes to planting trees, here’s a couple other things you want to consider:
- If a tree grows too large it could block enough of the sun that the water doesn’t warm up to a temperature that you enjoy.
- Plant shade trees with care and planning. Ask us which trees are best for poolside. Determine which trees drop the least amount of leaves or sap into the water and which provide roots that are less likely to get out of control and damage the pool structure. Trees and other shrubbery can provide shade and privacy but must be planted with care.
When planting trees isn’t a good option you could choose from:
- Umbrellas – these movable shade providers come in a variety of shapes, styles and colors and can be easily moved from location to location and even if you decide to plant one semi-permanently, they move, spin and bend to offer shade in different areas
- Pergolas and gazebos – these permanent structures offer shaded areas and should be large enough to accommodate outdoor furniture or even outdoor kitchens
- Awnings – these come in retractable, hinged styles or permanent structures that extend from the house. Awnings will only work if your pool is close enough to your house.
- Add a pergola as a shade structure. A pergola is typically a wooden structure that is freestanding and can provide as much shade as you feel you need. The way to add or subtract the amount of sun that comes through is done by the style of the pergola’s roof. Choose from an opaque or a lattice style roof or even a pergola with a retractable roof.
Talk to one of our professionals and ask for his advice on ways you can shade your backyard pool area.
