If the top and sides are solid, there is more risk of damage in high winds. Consider lattice on the roof and sides so the wind can easily pass through.Some manufacturers make hurricane-resistant pergolas. For hurricane-force winds such as what I experience in Florida, consider hiring a professional to construct it correctly for you.Install it on a solid concrete foundation with metal bolts.This will help reinforce the structure and give it strength. Build it with strong material such as a metal frame or hardwood using cross beams and support joists.Things to Consider When Building a Pergola Structure For very windy areas, it is best to use something that has slats so that the air will pass through. The roof is generally made of canvas, lattice, slats, metal, wood, or fiberglass. Anchor your umbrella down with a heavy metal base or a base you can fill with sand, water, or gravel.Ī pergola is a structure with strong vertical posts supported by crossbeams.You can also raise, lower, or tilt it to allow up to a full 360-degree rotation covering your pool deck. Choose a cantilever umbrella supported by a support rod on the side of the umbrella and not in the middle.Purchase models made with aluminum frames and bases for durability.They can withstand strong winds and resist tearing. Purchase models made of vinyl or canvas.What to Consider When Using an Umbrella For Shade If you want just a small to medium portion of your deck shaded, they do make some umbrellas that can withstand wind speeds up to about 40 mph. If you want to shade your entire deck, you may look for a wind-resistant shade sail or consider a pergola. This is to ensure that you’re purchasing something large enough to cover your area. You also need to decide how much shade you are looking for. If you live in hurricane territory as I do, make sure you purchase one for higher wind speeds, such as this one, which measures gales up to 100 mph. This instrument can measure how fast the winds are traveling in your area at any given time. To calculate the wind speed, you can purchase a gauge called an anemometer. Where I live, hurricanes and tornadoes are the norm, so I would expect maximum wind gusts over 60 mph and need to build with that in mind. The first thing you want to consider is how windy your area can be. Shade Sails That Resist High-Speed Windsįactors to Consider When Installing a Deck Shade in a Windy Area.Things to Consider When Building a Pergola Structure.

What to Consider When Using an Umbrella For Shade.Factors to Consider When Installing a Deck Shade in a Windy Area.

Deck shade