There are many variables that make some sort of shelter an asset to a backyard living design.

Life on Earth wouldn’t exist without the sun. The sun is essential for plant growth and keeps temperatures warm enough to sustain life. Although people covet spending time in the sun, particularly after a dark, cold winter, it’s important to realize that the sun needs to be enjoyed in moderation.

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetimes, and more than 90 percent of melanoma cases are attributable to UV exposure. The National Cancer Institute says more than 33,000 sunburns require emergency room visits, and these affect people from all racial and ethnic groups.

Sun exposure damages skin and also can prematurely age outdoor fabrics and furniture. Spending time in direct sunlight also can make outdoor activities hot and uncomfortable for guests. Each of these variables make some sort of shelter an asset to a backyard living design. Shelters come in different types, and these are some of the more popular.

Screened-in porches

Turning a deck or a patio into a protected room may be accomplished by converting the space into a screened-in porch. By installing vertical screens and a roof or overhang, everyone is protected from the sun and insects. Retailers also sell freestanding screened-in structures that can be left up for the season and then dismantled and stored for the winter.

Pergola

A pergola has vertical columns upon which sits a slatted roof. A pergola can be designed to cover an entire deck or small enough to create a slightly sheltered spot in a nook of the yard. While a pergola doesn’t keep out rain, the slatted roof is enough to filter out sunlight to make the area underneath more comfortable.

Arbor

While they seem similar, an arbor is not the same thing as a pergola. An arbor is designed with sides formed from lattice and often has an arched top, says Penn Dutch Structures. Arbors add shade and a decorative element typically to designate the entry point into a backyard or garden.

Gazebo

A gazebo is a roofed, freestanding structure that is typically round, hexagonal or octagonal in shape. It is used for shade, relaxation, and often serves as a decorative element in an outdoor space. Gazebos often become the centerpiece in a yard.

Pavillion

A pavillion is like a gazebo, only it doesn’t have enclosed walls, nor a built-in floor. Pavillions commonly are attached to decks, paver patios and concrete bases. Most pavillions are styled as long and rectangular, serving mainly to provide a covered area for a patio or seating area.

Pagoda

A pagoda is like a pavillion with a dedicated roof and open sides. However, the pagoda will feature a tiered, upward-curved roof to make it even more regal and decorative.

Homeowners have many different options to dress up their outdoor living spaces and create spots that are shaded and protected from the elements, including the sun.