You’ve got a sweet little balcony off your apartment, but the summer sun turns it into an inferno. Don’t give up enjoying your outdoor oasis just yet.
There are plenty of ways to get shade without blocking your view or cramping your already limited space. You don’t need fancy pergolas or retractable awnings to make your balcony comfortable again.
You can easily find a cheap way to block heat from windows. Some sail shade, sunscreens, or shade cloths, and creativity can do the trick. Keep reading for some simple and budget-friendly balcony privacy ideas to reclaim your balcony this summer with shade solutions perfect for small spaces.
Stay cool and carry on, you’ll be lounging on your balcony again in no time!
Retractable awnings: stylish and space-efficient
Retractable awnings are a stylish and space-efficient solution for shading your balcony. These awnings can extend from the wall or ceiling to provide coverage when you require it, then retract when you want to soak in the sun.
- Look for awnings made of durable, weather-resistant fabrics like acrylic canvas, polyester, or polypropylene. These fabrics are designed to withstand sun exposure and last for several years.
- Consider the size of your balcony and how much shade you need. Awnings come in different widths, projections, and drop lengths to suit small or large spaces. Measure your balcony area before shopping to find the right size.
- Choose between manual and motorized awnings. Manual awnings require cranking to extend and retract the shade, which can be tedious for hard-to-reach areas. Motorized awnings operate at the push of a button, making them very convenient, though pricier.
- Install wall mounts, ceiling mounts, or freestanding mounts depending on your balcony construction. Wall and ceiling mounts provide the most stability but may require professional installation. Freestanding mounts are easier to install yourself but can be less sturdy.
- Look for extra features like wind sensors, sun sensors, timers, and remote controls which provide automatic shade when you need it. These added features do increase the cost but can be worth it for the convenience.
With the right retractable balcony awning, you’ll be enjoying your balcony in comfort all summer long. Shade when you want it, sun when you don’t – what could be better than that?
Apartment balcony privacy ideas
Sick of nosy neighbors peering into your oasis? A privacy screen is an easy, budget-friendly solution for shielding your balcony. They not only block cold winds but also neighbors’ prying eyes, allowing you to entertain or read in peace outdoors.
You can construct a simple privacy screen using wood boards, lattice panels, or trellis sections. For wood boards, opt for cedar, redwood, or bamboo, which can stand up to weather. Space the boards about an inch apart for some airflow and visibility.
Lattice panels also let air and light through while obscuring the view. You can find lattice and trellis pieces at your local hardware store and easily secure them together with wire or zip ties.
- Wood boards: Cedar, redwood, or bamboo boards spaced 1 inch apart. Secure with wood screws.
- Lattice panels: Crisscrossed wooden slats let air and light through. Tie together with wire or zip ties.
- Trellis sections: Wooden frames with mesh netting or lattice inserts block views. Connect multiple sections for full coverage.
For a more natural look, grow vines, other climbing plants, flowers, or leafy plants on your privacy screen. As a bonus, greenery helps insulate and bring shade. With the right climbing plants, you’ll have a lush, living wall in no time.
Not only do they offer a shield from the outside world, but they also add color and visual interest to your space.
Depending on what you plant, the plants may attract birds, butterflies, and bees right to your apartment.
Whatever method you choose, mount the privacy screen to your balcony railing for stability.
Don’t permanently attach them to the building exterior since you may need to remove them at some point.
With a little DIY effort, you can create the seclusion and ambiance you crave in your small outdoor space. Your private urban oasis awaits!
How’s that for a low-cost solution to transform your balcony into a secluded summer retreat?
A few boards, panels, or trellis sections are all you need to craft DIY balcony privacy screens and make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your home.
Vertical gardens: living shade and decor
Vertical gardens are a great way to provide shade for your balcony while also decorating the space.
Plants in vertical gardens, also known as living walls or trees, grow on structures, so they take up very little floor space.
- Easy installation
Installing a vertical garden is quite simple. You can buy framed felt or mesh panels that the plants sit in, or construct your wooden frame.
Attach the panels to your balcony wall using strong double-sided tape, screws, or a rail system.
Then add the plants by securing their pots into the panels with zip ties or wire. For a DIY option, attach mesh, netting, or wire fencing to the wall and weave plants through the openings.
- Low maintenance
Once installed, vertical gardens are easy to care for. Group plants with similar light and water need together to simplify maintenance.
Water the gardens regularly, especially in hot or dry weather.
Fertilize during the growing season. Prune any dead or dying foliage to keep the garden looking lush.
- A variety of options
There are many plants well-suited to vertical gardens.
Consider shade-loving options like:
- Ferns: Delicate fronds provide dappled shade.
- Snake plants: Tall, spiky leaves. Tolerates neglect.
- Philodendrons: Large, lobed leaves. Prefers indirect light.
Vertical gardens provide natural shade and greenery for small balconies.
With a variety of plants and installation options to choose from, you can create an oasis of living decor on your balcony.
Let your vertical garden nourish your space with beauty and shade.
Pergolas: a permanent and pretty option
A pergola is a perfect solution if you want lasting shade and style for your balcony. Pergolas are freestanding structures with vertical posts and open latticework that a shade sail allows filtered light to pass through.
You can grow climbing vines or install shade sails, sun shades, or outdoor curtains over the top for more coverage when you need it.
To hang these, just use a curtain rod, easily creating a cozy, private outdoor retreat.
Pergolas are attractive and built to last. They come in a variety of materials like wood, metal, vinyl, and aluminum. Wood and metal pergolas have a natural, rustic look but require more maintenance.
You can also add lighting, outdoor fans, and weather-resistant outdoor furniture under a pergola to make it an inviting outdoor living space.
With the right care and maintenance, a pergola can add shade and style to your balcony for 10-15 years or more.
For small balconies, a pergola is an ideal option if you want a permanent shade solution in a style you love.
They allow you to have outdoor curtains and create an inviting outdoor oasis even when space is limited.
A pergola may require approval from your landlord or homeowners association before installation.
With the proper approvals and professional installation, pergolas are an attractive and durable shade solution for apartment balconies and small outdoor spaces.
Cantilevered umbrellas: simple and shade-providing
Cantilevered umbrellas are a simple and space-efficient way to provide shade on small balconies. These umbrellas attach to the wall of your building, rather than resting on a base on the floor.
- Easy installation
Cantilevered umbrellas are easy to install since they simply bolt into your wall. Look for options that come with hardware for securing the mounting bracket into brick, concrete, or wood walls.
- Retractable for when shade is not needed
Many cantilevered umbrellas feature a retractable canopy sail shade that can be extended when you want to shade and retracted against the wall when not in use.
FAQ
Do sun shades block UV rays and heat?
Yes, sun shades are designed specifically to reduce UV radiation and lower temperatures. Fabric options like canvas, polyester, and acrylic block up to 95% of UVB and UVA rays.
Mesh shade sail may block slightly less but still significantly reduce the amount of sun exposure.
Will a sun shade reduce my view or make my balcony dark?
Not necessarily. Many sun shades are designed to keep the sun’s rays but still provide an open view and ambient light. The retractable privacy screen can be opened and closed as needed.
Mesh or perforated fabric diffuses light rather than blocking it completely. The best part is that it folds flat for easy storage, so you’ll be able to find a place for it even in a small apartment.
How much do balcony sunshades cost?
Prices for balcony sunshades vary depending on the size, material, and type.
You can find basic mesh or fabric shades for under $50, while retractable shades or cabanas may cost $200-$500 or more, depending on features.
Which shade is best for balcony?
The best shade for a balcony depends on your preferences and climate. Light colors, like beige or white, are great for reflecting the sun’s rays and keeping the area cooler.
Installing outdoor curtains or a shade sail can provide additional protection from the sun while enhancing your balcony’s aesthetic.
Both options are stylish and functional, ensuring comfortable outdoor areas.
Which way should balcony face sun?
Ideally, your balcony should face a direction that receives ample sunlight, like south or southwest. This ensures you get plenty of natural light and warmth throughout the day.
How do I block the sun on my apartment balcony?
To block the sun on your apartment balcony, consider installing shade sails, umbrellas, or retractable awnings.
You can also use plants, like tall potted trees or climbing vines, to create a natural barrier that will hide you on sunny days.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, some balcony privacy ideas to bring shade to that small balcony of yours and make the space more inviting.
You don’t need a lot of space or money to make a big impact. Any of these options can help transform your balcony into an oasis, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air without the scorching sun. Pick what works for your situation and budget.
Keep in mind, you can start small by just adding a few simple touches like some potted plants or an outdoor rug to make the space cozy. Then build up from there as needed.
The most important thing is making the space work for you. So, choose one of the apartment balcony sun shade ideas and create the perfect atmosphere.
Get out there and start enjoying your balcony! The summer sun will be here before you know it.
