Outdoor Blinds
A drop-down blind on the western edge stops low sun; shade fabrics from 2% to 20% and more let you choose how much view to keep.
Ideas
Shade for west-facing decks
A west-facing deck gets the low, hot afternoon sun - lovely in winter, often unusable on a summer evening. The problem is sun coming in from the side, so a roof alone rarely fixes it.
What works best
Opening Louvres
Angle the blades against the afternoon sun, or close them fully; 100% UV protection when closed.
Elite Canopies
Tinted polycarbonate panels cut glare overhead while keeping the deck bright.
Things to plan for
- Side shade does more than roof shade for late-afternoon sun.
- Keep winter sun in mind - retractable blinds and opening louvres let it back in.
- Motorised blinds make it easy to drop the screen just for the hottest hour.
Not sure about consent? Check the building consent guide for your council →
Compare and explore
- Opening louvre roof vs fixed canopy
- Metal pergola vs aluminium canopy
- Sunroom vs canopy
- Outdoor blinds vs fixed panels
- Opening louvre roof vs metal pergola
- Opening louvre roof vs sunroom
- Outdoor blinds vs sunroom
- Clear vs tinted polycarbonate roof panels
- Covers for spas and hot tubs
- Roofs for outdoor kitchens and BBQ areas
- Carports and vehicle shelters
- Covering an existing deck