Southern summers are long and bright. Here is how to cool a hot yard with the right mix of shade, airflow and materials.
A yard that faces west can feel like an oven by four in the afternoon. Shade is the first answer, but how you shade matters. The angle of the rafters, the density of the cover and the use of fans and misters all change how cool the space feels.
We study the sun path and place the pergola to shade seating at the hottest hours. We choose rafter spacing, louvers, canopies or solid roofs to suit your need, and add fans and misters for extra relief. Our shade calculator tool helps you see how rafter spacing changes the sun.
Placement for afternoon shade.
Rafters, louvers, canopies or roof.
Extra cooling when needed.
Sails and canopies for more cover.
Natural cooling help.
Plan matched to your sun.
Attached PergolasA pergola tied into the house that extends your living space outdoors, with flashing and structure done right…Explore 
Louvered Roof PergolasPergolas with angled louver blades you can open for sun and air or close for shade and rain…Explore 
Retractable Canopies and AwningsFabric canopies that roll out when you want shade and tuck away when you do not, mounted to…Explore 
Shade SailsTensioned fabric sails on sturdy posts that cool play areas, patios and pool decks with a modern, sculptural…Explore 
Pool Decks and Poolside StructuresPergolas, shade structures and decks around the pool, planned for water, sun and safety on every surface.Explore 
Fans, Heaters and MistersComfort systems that make a pergola or covered patio usable in July heat and November chill.Explore 
Motorized Screens and ShadesRoll-down screens and shades that block sun, bugs and wind at the touch of a button, mounted on…Explore 
Grading, Drainage and Site PrepLevel ground, sound soil and good drainage so a pergola, patio or deck sits on a base that…Explore Size your lumber, plan your layout or ballpark a budget.
Pergola Lumber and Materials CalculatorEnter the size and post count to see posts, beams, rafters and the board feet to plan for.Try it 
Pergola Layout and Size PlannerPick your furniture and see the pergola size and clearances that fit.Try it 
Pergola Project Budget PlannerPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it It depends on rafter spacing and angle. Our shade tool shows examples.
It blocks more sun but can trap heat without airflow. Fans help.
We study the sun path and place it for the shade you need.
Project situationBackyard PatiosA patio with no shade is a patio nobody uses in July. Here is how a pergola turns…Learn more 
Project situationPool AreasA pool is a summer magnet and a sunburn waiting to happen. Here is how a pergola, cabana…Learn more 
Project situationEntertainingNashville loves a party, and the best ones spill outside. Here is how to build a pergola made…Learn more 
Project situationSmall YardsA small yard can still have a great outdoor room. Here is how to make a compact space…Learn more Call us and we will walk the yard and give you a clear plan, drawings and a written scope.
