Pergola, Roof, or Open Sky: How Much Shade Do You Actually Need Outside

Deck Builders Knoxville · May 25, 2026 · 2m

On Deck Builders Knoxville, we know that comfort is just as important as structure when it comes to outdoor living. In this episode, we dig into a question many homeowners ask once the basic deck or patio is in place: how much shade do you really need? We compare three main approaches you see across Knoxville backyards—open sky decks, pergolas, and fully roofed or covered areas—and explain how each one feels in real use. Shade affects not only how often you use the space, but also how your deck materials weather over time and how well outdoor furniture, grills, and finishes hold up under sun…