Exterior Shades for Your Patio and Windows
The hottest part of an Arkansas afternoon is when the sun drops low and comes in sideways, right under your patio roof and through your west windows. Exterior shades stop that sun before it reaches you. Hot Springs Awning installs roll-down patio shades and solar screens that keep your home and outdoor spaces cooler and more comfortable.
Types of Shades
Roll-down patio shades
Solar window screens
Motorized shades
Manual shades
Shade sails
Benefits
Cooler rooms
Less glare
Furniture protection
Daytime privacy
Picking a Fabric
Shade fabrics range from open weaves that keep more of your view to tight weaves that block more sun. We bring samples to your home so you can see how each looks in your light before you choose.
Inside Blinds vs. Outside Shades
Blinds inside your window block light, but the sun has already passed through the glass and started heating the room. Exterior shades stop the sun outside, before it reaches the glass, so much less heat gets in. That makes exterior shades one of the most effective ways to cool hot rooms on sunny sides of the house.
Fabric Openness Made Simple
Solid flat-pan covers
Insulated roof panels
Lattice covers
Combination designs
Fabric Openness Made Simple
Darker colors usually let you see out more clearly. Lighter colors reflect more heat.
| Openness | What you get | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| About 1–3% | Most shade and daytime privacy | West windows, bedrooms, TV rooms |
| About 4–6% | Good balance of shade and view | Most patios |
| About 10%+ | More view and breeze | Patios with a great view |
Manual or Motorized
Manual shades with a crank or cord are simple and budget-friendly. Motorized shades are easier for large or hard-to-reach openings and are great if you raise and lower shades every day. Several motorized shades can be grouped on one remote.
Where Homeowners Use Exterior Shades
West-facing patios
Sunrooms
Large windows and sliding doors
Bedrooms and TV rooms
Pool areas
Care and Storm Tips
Raise shades in high winds and storms. Rinse off dust and pollen now and then and clean spots with mild soap. Check guides and housings once or twice a year for leaves or debris.
What Affects the Cost
Cost depends on the number and size of shades, fabric, manual or motorized operation, guide type and where they mount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Most solar screen fabrics let you see out clearly during the day.
Blocking sun outside your windows reduces heat gain, which eases the load on your air conditioner.
Usually, yes.
At night, with lights on inside, solar fabrics become more see-through. Tighter weaves or a second layer help if nighttime privacy matters.
Ask about fabric options that also help keep insects out when lowered.
Yes. Motorized operation makes high windows easy to manage.