vidaXL Balcony Screen Oxford Fabric 90x400cm Anthracite Garden Panel Sunshade

Product Information

Height and more permanence are big advantages to wall mounted lattices, but overall flexibility makes expandable lattices very popular. Pros

Perhaps the simplest way to shade a balcony is to suspend, drape or fix up fabric panels. Think laterally – a flat bedsheet, throw or tablecloth will all work well as a cover overhead and are often decorative too, adding to the look. Alternatively try cut lengths of store-bought fabric or table runners laid in parallel strips to cover a wider area.No matter how big or small your balcony, a few leafy shrubs or trees in pots can reap huge benefits. Creating visual interest, they can also help to soften ambient noise, attract birds and pollinators and create valuable shade. Repainting is a great way to update the look of a balcony. The walls and the floor tend to be very dominant to the spaces, so a fresh coat of paint can really transform how it all looks.

You can get different colors, but anything other than green will obviously take away some realism. That said, red looks quite good, and you can get options that include pink flowers. Finally, there are orange, blue and yellow versions, but these all look quite artificial (although that may not be a bad thing!). ProsTo keep the curtains securely closed and to stop them from making a lot of noise, make sure they have extra grommets on the bottom. Large and hefty outdoor furniture like sectional sofas, etc., other than its primary purpose, can also be a shield against strong wind gusts, thereby providing a double benefit. For good reason, many individuals choose large pieces of furniture like outdoor sectional couches.

The placement of fence panels may be done separately from other fences and away from the patio, where the wind is coming from. Pot trays, used under your containers, will hold the water and will mean you can get the watering can out less often. Big mistakes Considering all the different types available, it’s worth researching the market before buying one, as some are more suitable for apartment balconies than others. Balcony Boss is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. For additional information, please view our policies.

Technical Specification

Choosing the most suitable style of sun shade for your space is all important, as it can help or hinder how often you use your balcony. ‘Cantilever umbrellas eliminate the pole in the center of balcony seating areas, but tend to be less durable with high wind,’ explains Ashley Newton, Lead Design Consultant at ShadeScapes Americas. ‘However, they can also offer features like tilting and rotating, which can make them more advantageous throughout the day. Market/center pole umbrellas have inherent durability and are also available with mobile bases, but may not always be the most optimal for space planning. Budget is also a factor as there is a wide range of prices and associated quality on the market.’

Others can be installed with cable ties, meaning they’re less intrusive and permanent. As such, make sure the option you choose works with any restrictions or agreements about DIY work. Unique Considerations for Apartments You don’t need to install metal screens; most are freestanding. As such, they’re a good option for renters, but avoid them if you have a windy balcony. Metal screens can blow over in strong winds and will cause more damage than other options. Pros If you already have a fence surrounding your yard, then think about making it higher. Although wood is the most affordable material, corrugated steel will provide the most wind protection. The biggest advantage of fencing your entire yard is that it will prevent debris from drifting into your patio and other surfaces. A more modern aluminum design is a better choice for a sleek space – go for a fully-automated model where the roof can be tilted or open and closed completely for the ultimate in ease of use. Thanks to our clear drop blinds, you can breathe new life into your balcony, even in the winter months.Wind sensors Wired or wireless, these clever pieces of kit detect vibration as a sign of changing weather conditions and automatically close up the shade to protect it from possible damage. You’ll probably need to attach them to the railings of balconies. Of course, they will only be beneficial if climbing plants are grown up them; these plants can take many years to provide the necessary level of covering and not all of them are adapted to the cold weather climates.