The best way to describe outdoor canopies would be an overhead hanging protection which provides shade in the open. It can be a tent or a canopy outdoor shed. Apart from giving you protection from the sun, canopies are used for a variety of reasons. There are people who use canopies or party tents for outdoor functions, there are people who use it as a storage utility and there are some who use it only for a drink or two in the afternoon. It is also used to provide shade to the garden, yard, parking lot, pool area etc. Depending on your primary usage and your budget, you can choose from a diverse range of canopies. The most commonly used ones are the tents made of canvas which can be retracted and folded with ease.

Buying a canopy

You can browse through hundreds of canopy designs at retail shops or online stores. The price starts from $150 and goes up to $1000. You need to keep an eye on the canopy fabric though. The fabric needs to be extremely durable and able to withstand the vagaries of nature. People who opt for cheap canopies need to bear in mind that the fabric might simply tear after prolonged usage. Apart from the canopies, the quality of the metal poles used is important. Look for rust proof and powder coated poles.

Types of canopies

There are several popular outdoor canopy designs and the 10' x 20' All-Purpose Canopy w/Extension leads the list. This multi utility canopy can be used as a cover for your car or boat and even be used as a party shed. The configuration of the canopy allows you to extend it beyond normal dimensions. The sidewall extension on the canopy allows you to extend it to an area of 480 square feet. The extensions and connections are extremely easy to install and dismantle as well. When you do not want to use the extension, you simply roll it up. The small 10' x 15' pop up canopy is also an extremely popular design. As the name suggests, these are ideal for outdoor events, a day on the beach etc. You simply install it, use it, dismantle it and carry it wherever you want to. Its that easy. > A lot of people have now started to use tarps for canopies. Tarps are durable and reliable. But if you really want your canopy to last long, opt for canvas tarps. These have the flexibility of tarps and the durability of canvas.