Shade alone can reduce UV radiation exposure by up to 75%. Seeking shade when UV levels are 3 and above can help protect your skin. Protecting your skin from exposure to UV radiation is the simplest and most effective way to reduce your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.
Shade also provides a pleasant environment year-round – cool in summer, warm and protected in winter, and is an attractive addition to the surrounding landscape.
Shade can be natural (trees, shrubs, hedges or shadow cast from nearby buildings), constructed (man-made or built – awnings, shade sails, pergolas etc) or a combination of both. Shade can be permanent, temporary or portable (umbrellas, beach cabanas, tents etc).
Good shade should involve more than just installing a structure over the area you want covered. To be effective shade needs to:
- fall in the right place at the right time
- be the right size to provide effective protection from direct and indirect UV radiation
- made of the right materials.
If you are planning to install or plant new shade or to improve the amount or quality of shade you have currently available there are several important things to consider:
Types of structure
Permanent or built structures include pergolas, verandas, gazebos and shade sails. For all built structures, regardless of size, it is essential to seek professional advice as well as development approval from local council.
Temporary or demountable shade structures include marquees, tents and lightweight shade sails. These shade systems work well for areas that need shade occasionally or are not suitable for a permanent structure. Temporary shade systems can also be used while trees and other vegetation matures’ to provide natural shade.
Types of shade
Natural shade
Trees and other vegetation can be one of the most effective and attractive ways of providing shade. Good natural shade depends on the size of the canopy and density of the foliage; the larger the canopy, the lower to the ground it is and thick dense foliage the better the protection from both direct and indirect UV radiation.
When selecting trees and other vegetation ensure they are appropriate for your area. Factors to consider include:
- How much shade will they create and whether the shade will be cast where it is needed
- Soil type and climate
- The size and shape of the mature plants and how they may impact on the surrounding landscapes
- Deciduous or evergreen. A deciduous tree may be suitable to allow for more light and warmth in winter.
Portable shade
Portable shade includes marquis, tents, beach cabanas and umbrellas. These structures often provide limited protection from the indirect UV radiation, but can be an easy and cheap solution, especially in areas where no other shade options are available.
