Best way to add north-side shade for pool pump (existing Colorbond roof)

[Happy_Learner]

Hi all,

I’m looking for ideas to add shade for our pool pump, only on the north-facing (outer) side. The Colorbond sheet on top will stay as is. There are limestone steps on that side, with a small gap between the pump slab and the limestone (see photos).

I’m hoping to use materials that handle sun and rain well, and to achieve a natural-looking, semi-see-through design, similar to the last photo.

Thanks in advance!

 

 

 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Happy_Learner,

There are a few decorative screen options that would work well for this. You’ll likely need to install horizontal timber battens at the top and bottom so the screen can be securely fixed. You could use a plastic garden screen for a lightweight option, or timber panels like Merbau, which are durable and weather-resistant. Both would give you a natural, semi-see-through look while providing the shade you need. 

Two of these SpecRite 1800 x 600mm Pre-Oiled Merbau Garden Fence Panels next to each other would give you the required 1200mm of width.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Happy_Learner]

Hi @MitchellMc,

Thanks so much for the great ideas. The Merbau garden fence panels look like a good option. I wonder how you would suggest I go about installing the horizontal battens in practice?

[MitchellMc]

I'd potentially install another diagonal brace as per the other side, @Happy_Learner. From there, you can use the wall and the top of the diagonal brace to attach the two ends of the upper batten. At the wall, an angle bracket would be needed for attachment. The lower batten can be attached to the concrete with Ankascrews.

Alternatively, you could create a full rectangular frame out of H3-treated pine framing.

Mitchell