A covered porch is a great place to relax, especially when it overlooks the backyard and pool. But when the afternoon sun starts coming in from the side, the shaded spot can get uncomfortable. That was the case with this Springfield, Illinois, porch until the homeowners added a motorized Betterliving Solar Shade, installed by Benmar Sunrooms.
The new shade gives the family more control over the sunlight, along with a little extra privacy, without giving up their backyard view.
Making the Most of an Open Porch
This porch was already a welcoming outdoor space. The gable roof provides overhead coverage, while comfortable wicker seating, a ceiling fan, and recessed lighting make it an inviting place to spend time. It also opens right onto the backyard and pool, making it a natural gathering spot for family and friends.
The open end of the porch, however, left it exposed to afternoon sun. It also meant there wasn’t much privacy from neighboring homes. The homeowners wanted a way to block the sun and create a little more privacy without losing the view of their backyard.
A Solar Shade That Does the Work for You
Benmar Sunrooms installed this wide motorized solar shade in Springfield across the open end of the porch. The shade fits neatly between the existing posts, with a housing and frame that complement the home’s dark bronze trim. The charcoal-colored fabric also works well with the home’s gray siding and shingles, giving the installation a finished look that blends in with the rest of the outdoor space.
One of the biggest advantages is how easy it is to operate. With motorized controls, the homeowners can raise or lower the shade with the push of a button. There’s no need to manually pull it down or adjust anything by hand.
Shade When You Need It, an Open View When You Don’t
The best part of a retractable solar shade is having options. The homeowners don’t have to keep the porch closed off or shaded all the time. On a sunny afternoon, lowering the shade helps cut down on heat and glare while adding privacy from the yard. The solar fabric also filters UV rays, helping protect outdoor furniture and fabrics from fading.
When the sun moves or the family wants an unobstructed view, they can raise the shade and enjoy the open porch again. It can even be stopped partway down to provide coverage exactly where it’s needed.
It’s a simple change, but it makes the porch more useful throughout the day. Whether the family is relaxing after a swim, entertaining guests, or just enjoying some time outside, they can adjust the shade to suit the moment.
A Smart Addition to a Covered Porch
A roof provides plenty of protection from overhead sun, but it can’t block sunlight coming in from the sides. That’s why exterior solar shades are such a practical addition to covered porches, patios, and other outdoor living spaces.
A Betterliving Solar Shade can help:
- Reduce heat and glare from direct sunlight.
- Filter UV rays that can fade outdoor furniture and fabrics.
- Add privacy without completely blocking the view.
- Keep an outdoor space more comfortable throughout the day.
With motorized operation, adjusting the shade is quick and easy. It’s a convenient way to get more enjoyment out of an existing porch without making major changes to the structure.
Thank You to Benmar Sunrooms
A big thank-you to Benmar Sunrooms for sharing this project. Based in Springfield, Illinois, Benmar is a family-owned, authorized Betterliving dealer serving homeowners throughout central Illinois. In addition to solar shades, the team designs and installs sunrooms, screen rooms, patio covers, canopies, and retractable awnings.
Ready to Make Your Porch More Comfortable?
If afternoon sun or a lack of privacy is keeping you from enjoying your outdoor space, a motorized Betterliving Solar Shade may be just what you need. Contact your local authorized Betterliving dealer to explore your options and get a free consultation.
