At Made in the Shade Abilene, we help homeowners across West Texas find the right outdoor shade to match their lifestyle and climate. Looking to bring beauty, comfort, and function to your outdoor space? You’re in the right place. From motorized patio shade solutions to custom retractable awnings, your options are as versatile as your backyard.
In our related article, we explored how exterior shades and awnings elevate outdoor living. Now, let’s dive into how to choose the best solution for your unique space—whether it’s a sunny deck, a breezy porch, or a poolside retreat.
We’ll Bring The Showroom To You! Start today by requesting your Free In-Home Consultation and discover tailored options that meet your needs and style.
Step 1: Define Your Right Outdoor Shade
Before choosing a product, ask yourself:
- Shade for relaxing in the afternoon sun?
- Privacy from neighbors?
- Temperature control near windows or sliding doors?
- A stylish upgrade that boosts curb appeal?
By narrowing down your top priorities, we can guide you to the right solution—whether that’s a retractable awning that gives you flexible shade or a patio shade that filters light without blocking the breeze.
Step 2: Know Your Sun Exposure
In Abilene, the position of the sun can drastically impact comfort. Think about when and where your space receives the most direct light:
- South-facing areas get sunlight all day—ideal for UV-blocking solar shades.
- East-facing patios warm up quickly in the morning but are shady by afternoon.
- West-facing porches get intense afternoon rays—perfect for high-opacity patio shades or awnings with drop valances.
Understanding your home’s sun pattern will help determine the best opacity, fabric, and orientation for your new treatment.
Step 3: Choose Between Shades or Awnings
Here’s a quick breakdown of the two main options we offer:
▶ Exterior Patio Shades
- Mounted vertically (on patios, pergolas, windows)
- Reduces glare and heat
- Offers different openness levels for view-through
- Can be manual or motorized
- Durable in high wind zones
- Ideal for privacy and heat control
▶ Retractable Awnings
- Projects outward to cover a larger area
- Offers flexible shade (extend when needed)
- Perfect for decks, dining areas, and large patios
- Available with motorized controls, wind sensors, and LED lighting
- Adds instant shade and visual appeal
Need help deciding? Our team will walk you through it during your free in-home consultation.
Step 4: Match Your Style and Materials
Today’s outdoor living space shades come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and fabric textures—from natural weaves to sleek, minimalist tones. We carry premium products from Graber, Insolroll, and Alta, giving you plenty of choices.
Materials matter, too:
- PVC-coated polyester fabrics offer superior weather resistance.
- Woven solar fabrics block UV while maintaining your view.
- Blackout options are ideal for full shade on bright afternoons.
Whether your home is classic, modern, or somewhere in between, we can match a product that complements your architecture and enhances your right outdoor shade aesthetic.
Step 5: Consider Smart Features
One of the biggest upgrades in outdoor living is motorization. With brands like Alta Window Fashions and Insolroll, you can operate your shades or awnings with a remote, wall switch, or even your smartphone.
Add-ons to consider:
- Sun sensors that deploy shades when sunlight hits
- Wind sensors that retract awnings automatically
- Home automation integration with Alexa, Google Home, or Control4
- LED lighting for added ambience
Automation not only boosts convenience—it also helps protect your investment by responding to changing weather conditions in real time.
Step 6: Don’t DIY—Call in the Experts
Installing outdoor shades or awnings isn’t just about aesthetics. It requires accurate measuring, professional mounting, and climate-specific product knowledge.
With Made in the Shade Abilene, you get:
- Free in-home design consultation
- Expert product guidance
- Professional measuring and installation
- Long-lasting, name-brand products
- A local team that understands the West Texas climate
And yes—We’ll Bring The Showroom To You! It’s our mission to make shopping for window treatments easy, personalized, and stress-free.
Ready to Create Your Right Outdoor Shade Retreat?
Whether you’re upgrading a porch, patio, or poolside escape, choosing the right outdoor shade can transform your space into something beautiful, practical, and uniquely you.
Still deciding? Be sure to check out our related article for more inspiration and product ideas.
Then, when you’re ready, let us bring the best in style, innovation, and shade right to your door.
📲 Request your Free In-Home Consultation today! We’ll help you make the right choice—with confidence.
