How do others create shade and block the hot sun on their patios or porches? We're looking for an easier way to block the sun on our patio.
It's hotter than heck on our flat Midwest farm ground and I'm looking for ideas. We don't have any trees on the south up against the house because the septic and basement drain is there and I don't want a small or cumbersome awning because of the high winds we often get. We have a porch so I could put an awning off of that but I would always be cranking it up or down and I'm sure it would cost $$thousands. Same thing with a small umbrella type thing. The wind would pick up and it would be gone. Maybe I do want an awning and just don't realize it would work.
Recently, I saw a triangular lightweight fabric type flag thing that looked like a three corner sail. It hooked to two points on the house and one point on a pole or post or something 20 ft or so away from the house. It was probably 20 ft square and did look like it would work and be easy to get down if the wind picked up. Has anyone seen this?
How do others in hot areas create shade for themselves on hot patios or living areas around their homes? Awnings, umbrellas or ? What works for you?
