A Florida lanai takes a beating — blazing afternoon sun, wind-driven rain, pollen, bugs and the occasional nosy neighbor. The right shades turn it into a room you'll actually use year-round. Here are the best options and how to choose.
What you're up against on a Florida lanai
Before picking a shade, it helps to name the problem. On most Central Florida lanais it's some mix of: harsh sun and UV that fades furniture and makes the space unusable by mid-afternoon; glare off the pool or lake; wind-driven rain and storms; pollen and dust; bugs; and a lack of privacy from neighbors or the street.
The good news: a custom motorized autoshade can handle all of it — you just choose the fabric to match what matters most to you.
Solar (see-through) autoshades — keep the view
Solar-screen fabrics cut the sun, heat and UV while letting you see out and keep the breeze. They're perfect when you love the view of the yard, pool or lake and mainly want relief from glare and heat. These are the backbone of most lanai and patio shade projects.
Dim-out autoshades — full privacy and shade
When you want to block the sun completely and close the space off from view, dim-out fabric is the answer. It's opaque, so it gives total privacy and deep shade — ideal for west-facing lanais that bake in the afternoon, or any spot where you want a private retreat.
Add protection from bugs and weather
Already have a screened lanai or pool birdcage? Adding motorized shades layers on the privacy and sun control a screen can't provide. And if no-see-ums are your nemesis, a fine no-see-um mesh keeps even the tiniest biters out while the breeze still flows.
Make it yours with custom printed shades
Want some personality? Custom printed autoshades let you print a favorite scene — a beach, a sunset, your own photo — across the shade, all while keeping full sun and weather protection.
How to choose the right lanai shade
Three questions settle most decisions. Which way does the lanai face? (West- and south-facing get the worst sun — lean toward denser solar or dim-out.) Is it screened or open? Do you want to keep the view, or close the space off? Many lanais use a mix — solar fabric where the view matters, dim-out where privacy does. We'll sort it out at your free consultation.
Ready to upgrade your space?
Turn your lanai into a year-round outdoor room. Book a free in-home consultation or call (352) 801-1586 and we'll bring fabric samples to your home.