Shade
Shade may be natural, built, or a combination of both. More effective shade is needed in public places.
Effective shade is shade that falls at the right place, at the right time, provides nearly full protection from the sun's direct rays, and creates an area that is comfortable to use year-round.
Natural shade
Natural shade is important in all outdoor areas where you spend time. Trees with the following features will provide shade in the summer, while letting in the sun's warm rays in the winter:
- tall,
- deciduous (have leaves that fall off in autumn),
- wide canopies of dense leaves, and
- planted south and southwest of the site needing shade.
What to look for in a shade tree:
Not all trees create equal shade. Trees with dense, wide canopies and low branches provide better UV protection. To figure out the level of UV protection your tree provides, look at the tree canopy against the sky and compare it to these images.
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Built shade
Built shade structures (e.g., gazebos, awnings, shelters, shade sails, buildings) can fit your shade needs. Whether it is permanent or portable, there are several things to consider when choosing your shade structure:
- cost,
- maintenance requirements,
- effects of rain, snow, sun, and wind on the structure,
- environmental consequences (e.g., recyclability of materials), and
- UV protection of the material--look for material with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) value of at least 15.
Planning for shade in the design of public spaces and hosting community events where shade is will help protect our community residents from the dangerous of the sun's rays.
Resources
Shade Matters (video)