As fall settles into the Inland Northwest, things shift quickly. At this latitude, the weather noticeably changes, ushering in shorter days, cooler evenings, and breezes that carry the crisp bite of the coming winter. For homeowners in this region, the approach of cold weather often means putting away the patio furniture and retreating indoors. But with the right solutions, your outdoor space doesn’t have to go completely unused.
Outdoor shades or screens are one of the simplest and most effective ways to extend patio season into fall and early winter. Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington are known for occasional unseasonably warm days in fall and winter, and for those fall days when the sun bursts through, you can’t help but want to enjoy the fleeting warmth. At Best Blinds & Awnings in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and the Lewis-Clark Valley, we help local homeowners create comfortable, protected outdoor areas that can last well beyond summer. Here’s how outdoor shades can make the difference.
Shielding Against Cooler Winds
Fall breezes in the Inland Northwest can quickly turn a cozy patio into a chilly one. Outdoor shades act as a barrier against wind, creating a more sheltered environment. While they don’t fully insulate, they reduce drafts enough to make sitting outside with a warm drink or around a fire pit much more enjoyable.
Blocking Low-Angle Sunlight
In autumn, the sun sits lower in the sky, often shining directly into patios and outdoor rooms. This can cause glare during late afternoon and early evening, the exact time you’d like to relax outside. Outdoor shades filter harsh light, making your space comfortable while still letting in a warm, natural glow.
Added Privacy for Early Nights
As the days get shorter, patios and decks often feel more exposed. Outdoor shades provide instant privacy, especially valuable if your backyard is visible to neighbors. Lowering your shades in the evening makes you feel like you’ve gained another “room” in your home, sheltered and private.
Protection from Rain and Debris
Fall in Spokane and North Idaho often brings rain showers and drifting leaves. Outdoor shades keep these elements from invading your patio space, helping to protect furniture and keep your outdoor area cleaner. By reducing direct exposure, shades also prolong the life of your patio setup.
Enhancing Year-Round Versatility
Outdoor shades aren’t just about comfort in the moment; they’re an investment in extending the usability of your space. Combined with a heater or fire feature, a shaded patio can remain functional well into early winter, giving you more value from your deck, pergola, or covered porch.
Style and Practicality Combined
Available in a variety of fabrics and colors, you can select outdoor shades that will blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior design. Whether you’re in a modern Spokane neighborhood or a rustic cabin near Lake Coeur d’Alene, they add a polished, functional look to outdoor living areas.
Prepare Your Patio for the Season Ahead and for Every Season
Instead of packing away your patio until spring, consider how outdoor shades can help you make the most of fall and early winter, as well as early spring when it rolls around. They block wind, filter sunlight, protect from rain, and give you privacy, all while creating a space that feels cozy and inviting.
At Best Blinds & Awnings, we bring custom outdoor shade solutions to homes across the region, and our team can help you choose durable, stylish shades designed to stand up to the Inland Northwest’s seasonal changes. If you’re not ready to pack your summer in, contact Best Blinds & Awnings today for a consultation and discover how outdoor shades can protect and transform your outdoor living space even when fall beckons.