Shade is perhaps one of the most under-appreciated and even under-investigated natural phenomenons on earth. We know we love sitting under the ‘shade of the old oak tree’ but we rarely appreciate why.

Though the idea itself is self refuting scientifically speaking, since it is impossible to prove, most scientists carefully avoid the idea that nature has a purpose, at least in their professional lives. Yet, and I believe rightly so, deep down it is irresistible to think that if something exists and it “does something” (eg. the Earth has an ozone layer that protects it from ultraviolet light) then its function is actually the reason it exists. So it is with shade!

When we think ‘shade’ we think trees! Not only are they the ‘lungs of the earth’ (taking in carbon dioxide and respiring oxygen) but according to research from the US Department of Agriculture, “The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day” and “trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30%.”

Today’s research has shown that the kind of shade tree planted, how far from a building it is planted, and the side of the building where it is planted all affect its cooling effect. Trees growing on the west and east sides of a building, respectively, have been found to reduce the amount of electricity used for air conditioning the building the most.

However not everyone has access to, nor the ability to plant, trees large enough to receive the benefits described above. That is where Home Porch & Patio Kits comes in. Patio covers, also known as deck awnings are a great way to get some of the benefits of shade that a great many back yards are missing. You can cool any deck, patio, terrace or balcony on demand with a permanent aluminum patio cover or retractable deck awning with manual or motorized operation. Our line insulated roof patio covers prevent heat transfer to the underside of the roof cover and are a great substitute for nature’s tree, in an unlimited number of sizes.

With our DIY patio cover kits you’ll expand your outdoor living space and add value to your home without the problems and high cost of stick build construction. Plus, your furniture and carpeting will be protected from fading on the inside. With a patio cover in place you’ll use the space more often, you will lower indoor temperatures by as much as 15 degrees and reduce sunlight and glare by as much as 94%.

Remember it really is 15 degrees cooler in the shade! So this year turn that sun baked back deck or patio into a shaded haven from the sun – – and do it yourself! We have helped thousands of homeowners over the last 15+ years. Most sizes can be installed by 2 people in about 2 days. Check us out!