Being exposed to direct sunlight can make the air feel 10-15 degrees warmer than what it actually is. Although the temperature in the sun is no different than in the shade, the solar radiation that hits your skin makes it feel much warmer. When sitting on your porch or patio in the spring and summer months, not have sufficient covering and cooling sources can make temperatures feel too warm to stay outside. If you plan to invite guests over this summer, or to enjoy mornings and afternoons outdoors, now is the time to consider your options for effectively cooling your outside space.
Installing a quality awning
One of the best options for keeping the intense rays from the sun off of your porch or patio is to add a standard or retractable awning. Since they can be built to the exact size of your outdoor space, there is no guessing as to whether or not you’ll have proper coverage. Experts from marygrove.com say that in addition to keeping air feeling comfortable for you and your guests, awnings can block harmful UV rays. Outdoor awnings are also made with durable fabric, which is a must-have for those living in climates that experience intense sunlight throughout the year. Since the sun is so powerful, it can actually compromise the integrity of fabrics on canopies and other coverings from home improvement stores. That is why it is essential to choose a well-built, professional awning that will keep you comfortable for years to come.
Adding outdoor fans
In addition to limiting your exposure to the sun, adding outdoor fans to your porch or patio can quickly make the air feel about 10 degrees cooler. This is especially helpful when the actual temperature (not just the feeling caused by solar radiation) is high. What is nice about adding an outdoor fan is that there are options that work well for any space. If you have an enclosed porch or patio with the appropriate fixtures, you can install a ceiling fan to cool down the entire space. If you instead have a more open area, outdoor floor fans, or fans that clip onto your patio furniture can also deliver much needed relief from the warm weather.
Putting in an outdoor misting system
If you desire the ultimate in outdoor cooling options (and don’t mind a bit of water), look no further than an outdoor misting system. These systems release fine streams of mist at multiple points. They can be attached to pergolas, gazebos, or the tops of almost any outdoor structure. Although there are some DIY systems that can be purchased from home improvement stores, you can also have these systems installed professionally. However, if your outdoor space has anything that should not get water on it, you will want to skip this method of cooling.
Even when temperatures get hot in the summer months, there are excellent ways to keep you and your guests comfortable on your porch or patio. Awnings, outdoors fans, and misting systems are three of the best choices for helping you achieve this goal.
