Summers in Middle Tennessee are beautiful—but they can also be blazing hot. If you love spending time on your deck but find yourself dodging the sun by midday, it might be time to rethink your shade strategy. At Decked Out Tennessee, we specialize in designing custom decks that don’t just look great—they work great in all seasons, including those long, humid summer days.

Here are the most effective—and stylish—deck shade solutions to help you stay cool, comfortable, and protected from the elements.

☀️ 1. Pergolas: Elegant, Versatile, and Customizable

A pergola is one of the most popular and attractive ways to add shade to your outdoor space. Whether attached to your home or freestanding, pergolas offer partial shade and create a defined space for dining, lounging, or entertaining.

Enhance your pergola with:

• Retractable fabric canopies

• Climbing vines or greenery for a natural cover

• Decorative lighting for evening ambiance

Perfect for: Franklin homeowners looking for a timeless, upscale look.

🌿 2. Shade Sails: Modern and Affordable

Shade sails are tensioned fabric structures that stretch above your deck to block sunlight. They’re ideal for adding a sleek, contemporary look to your space—plus, they come in a variety of shapes and colors.

Benefits:

• Budget-friendly

• Easy to install and remove

• Provides significant UV protection

Perfect for: Modern homes in Brentwood or decks with limited overhead space.

🏡 3. Covered Roof Extensions: Permanent, All-Weather Shade

For homeowners who want full coverage and year-round usability, a roof extension over the deck is the way to go. It blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture and protects your deck from sun, rain, and debris.

Options include:

• Gabled or shed-style roof structures

• Ceiling fans and recessed lighting

• Skylights for filtered natural light

Perfect for: Those who entertain often or want to use their deck during all four seasons.

🎋 4. Outdoor Curtains or Screens: Flexible and Stylish

If you have a pergola or open deck frame, adding curtains or vertical screens can provide adjustable shade, added privacy, and a breezy resort-like vibe.

Materials: Weather-resistant fabrics or bamboo panels
Added bonus: Helps block harsh winds and reduce sun glare

Perfect for: Nolensville homeowners looking to create a cozy, shaded lounge area.

🌳 5. Natural Shade: Use Landscaping to Your Advantage

Strategically placed trees or large potted plants can provide natural shade and cooling without major construction. Fast-growing trees like crepe myrtle or maple add both beauty and function.

Tip: Pair landscaping with other shade solutions for layered protection and visual interest.

💡 Bonus Tip: Light Matters Too

Don’t forget to consider how shade affects your lighting needs. Integrated LED lights, lanterns, or solar fixtures can keep your deck functional even after the sun goes down—without compromising your shady daytime retreat.

Stay Cool, Stay Outside

At Decked Out Tennessee, we know how to design decks that stand up to the Tennessee heat—whether that means building a brand-new shaded space or upgrading your current one with smart, stylish shade solutions.

📍 Serving Franklin, Brentwood, Nolensville, and surrounding areas.

Ready to beat the heat and make the most of your outdoor space?
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build your dream deck—shaded, stylish, and summer-ready.