My deck was too hot to use in the afternoon summer sun. I was limited to what type structure I could build because of my well location, so I was pleased to find the Alpine canopy structures at Shade Tree. I bought both the double and single models with the mesh panels.
The panels block enough sun to make the deck tolerable to use and installation was not too difficult for my contractor to assemble. The panels close themselves up in stiff wind, but if I know high winds are coming, I close them and use bungee cords to hold them tight to the beam to protect them from any ripping. It only takes me about 10 minutes to do that.
In the winter, I enclose them in the 'taco shell' covers I bought from Shade Tree, and also secure the whole thing to the beam to protect from our Iowa sleet, snow and cold.
I am pleased with the shades and how well they've held up in the brutal afternoon sun and winter weather. My patio table goes under the large shade and with an outdoor rug and my flowers, I have a nice summer 'room' to use.
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