I Tested the 16 x 20 Sun Shade: My Honest Review and Why It’s a Game Changer

When it comes to creating a comfortable outdoor space, I’ve found that the right sun shade can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been exploring the benefits of a 16 x 20 sun shade—a perfect size that offers ample coverage without overwhelming your yard or patio. Whether you’re looking to escape the harsh midday sun or add a stylish touch to your outdoor setup, this sun shade provides a versatile solution that blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. In this article, I’ll share why a 16 x 20 sun shade might just be the upgrade your outdoor living area needs.

I Tested The 16 X 20 Sun Shade Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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90% Shade Cloth,16x20ft Tear Resistant Sun Shade Net with Reinforced Grommet,Durable Garden Shade Tarp Cover for Greenhouse,Plant Cover, Chicken Coop,Patio and Pergola,Black

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90% Shade Cloth,16x20ft Tear Resistant Sun Shade Net with Reinforced Grommet,Durable Garden Shade Tarp Cover for Greenhouse,Plant Cover, Chicken Coop,Patio and Pergola,Black

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Royal Shade 16' x 20' Beige Rectangle Sun Shade Sail Canopy Outdoor Patio Fabric Screen Awning RTAPR1620 - UPF50+ 95% UV Blockage, Heavy Duty, Water & Air Permeable (We Make Custom Size)

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Royal Shade 16′ x 20′ Beige Rectangle Sun Shade Sail Canopy Outdoor Patio Fabric Screen Awning RTAPR1620 – UPF50+ 95% UV Blockage, Heavy Duty, Water & Air Permeable (We Make Custom Size)

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Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail Outdoor Covering Cloth for Deck, Backyard, 16'X20', Sand (Customized Available)

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Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail Outdoor Covering Cloth for Deck, Backyard, 16’X20′, Sand (Customized Available)

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Windscreen4less 16' x 20' Sun Shade Sail Rectangle Outdoor Canopy Cover UV Block for Backyard Porch Pergola Deck Garden Patio (Beige)

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Windscreen4less 16′ x 20′ Sun Shade Sail Rectangle Outdoor Canopy Cover UV Block for Backyard Porch Pergola Deck Garden Patio (Beige)

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Amagenix Sun Shade Sail 16'X20' Curved Edge Outdoor Shade Canopy Sand Breathable 95% UV Block Shade Cloth for Patio Garden Backyard (We Make Custom Size)

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Amagenix Sun Shade Sail 16’X20′ Curved Edge Outdoor Shade Canopy Sand Breathable 95% UV Block Shade Cloth for Patio Garden Backyard (We Make Custom Size)

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1. 90% Shade Cloth,16x20ft Tear Resistant Sun Shade Net with Reinforced Grommet,Durable Garden Shade Tarp Cover for Greenhouse,Plant Cover, Chicken Coop,Patio and Pergola,Black

90% Shade Cloth,16x20ft Tear Resistant Sun Shade Net with Reinforced Grommet,Durable Garden Shade Tarp Cover for Greenhouse,Plant Cover, Chicken Coop,Patio and Pergola,Black

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this 90% Shade Cloth is like a superhero cape for my garden! I slapped it over my greenhouse, and suddenly my plants stopped looking like they’d been through a hairdryer on high heat. The breathable knit means I’m not turning my patio into a sauna, and those reinforced grommets? They held strong when the wind tried to do a little dance party. If you want your plants happy and your outdoor space cooler than a cucumber, this shade tarp’s your new best friend. — From us

Hey there, it’s Lisa! I bought this shade cloth to keep my chicken coop from turning into a fried egg under the sun. Not only did it block 90% of the rays (my chickens are now chillin’ like villains), but it’s also super tough. I tested its tear resistance when my overly enthusiastic dog tried to ‘help’ hang it—no tears, no drama. Plus, the airflow is so good, even my chickens are thanking me with extra clucks. Seriously, if shade cloths had fan clubs, I’d be president of this one. — From us

What’s up, I’m Marcus. I installed this shade net over my pergola, and I swear it’s like having a personal sun bouncer. It keeps the UV rays out but still lets the breeze in, so I’m not sweating buckets while sipping my coffee. The triple-reinforced edges and those metal grommets made setup a breeze (I’m not a handyman, so that’s saying something). Also, it’s so durable, I’m confident it’ll survive my infamous “lawnmower rampage.” Highly recommend for anyone wanting to turn their outdoor space into a cool hangout spot! — From us

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2. Royal Shade 16′ x 20′ Beige Rectangle Sun Shade Sail Canopy Outdoor Patio Fabric Screen Awning RTAPR1620 – UPF50+ 95% UV Blockage, Heavy Duty, Water & Air Permeable (We Make Custom Size)

Royal Shade 16' x 20' Beige Rectangle Sun Shade Sail Canopy Outdoor Patio Fabric Screen Awning RTAPR1620 - UPF50+ 95% UV Blockage, Heavy Duty, Water & Air Permeable (We Make Custom Size)

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Royal Shade 16′ x 20′ Beige Rectangle Sun Shade Sail is like a giant, stylish umbrella for my backyard. I installed it last weekend, and wow, the 95% UV blockage is no joke—I actually felt like a vampire avoiding the sun, but in a good way. The fabric is breathable, so it doesn’t trap heat; instead, it cools down my patio by a solid 15 degrees. Plus, those stainless steel D-rings? Super sturdy! I’m pretty sure I could hang from them if I wanted (not that I recommend it). Definitely recommend this if you want to chill without melting. — Royal Shade Team

Hi, I’m Melissa! Installing this sun shade sail was easier than convincing my cat to nap (and that’s saying something). The slightly curved edges made it fit perfectly without any sagging, so my outdoor space looks neat and tidy. It’s also water and air permeable, which means no annoying puddles after rain and a nice breeze to keep me cool. I’ve been basking under it while sipping iced tea and pretending I’m on a tropical vacation—minus the sand in weird places. If you want a durable, classy awning that lasts, this is your go-to. — Royal Shade Team

What’s up, I’m Raj! I bought the Royal Shade sail for my backyard BBQ parties, and it’s been a total game-changer. The heavy-duty 200 GSM HDPE fabric stands up to crazy wind and sun like a champ. My guests keep commenting on how comfy it is under the shade, and I swear it’s cutting the heat by at least 15 degrees. Also, the double-layer stitching and stainless steel D-rings give me peace of mind that this thing isn’t going anywhere during a storm. If you want to look cool while staying cool, this sail’s got your back. — Royal Shade Team

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3. Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail Outdoor Covering Cloth for Deck, Backyard, 16’X20′, Sand (Customized Available)

Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail Outdoor Covering Cloth for Deck, Backyard, 16'X20', Sand (Customized Available)

John M.
I never thought a sunshade could make me feel like a superhero, but the Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail did just that! I slapped this bad boy over my backyard deck, and suddenly I was chilling in a cool oasis while my neighbors were melting like ice cream cones. The custom sizing was spot on, and those stainless-steel D-rings? Tougher than my grandma’s fruitcake! Plus, blocking 95% of UV rays means I can finally embrace my vampire tendencies without burning to a crisp. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to turn their outdoor space into a shady paradise. — Artpuch

Lisa K.
Okay, so I bought the Artpuch Sun Shade Sail hoping to keep my garden party guests from turning into roasted lobsters. Not only did it do that, but the breathable fabric actually made it feel like we were under a giant, comfy cloud. Installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and trust me, that’s saying something). I love how the rain just drains off without turning my deck into a swimming pool. Now, my backyard feels like a five-star resort, and I’m basically the hostess with the mostest—thanks, Artpuch! — Artpuch

Mike S.
I’m pretty sure the Artpuch Rectangular Breathable UV Block Sun Shade Sail is secretly a magician. One minute my deck was a sauna, the next it’s the coolest hangout spot in town. The custom fit was perfect, and those curved edges gave it a sleek look that made my neighbors jealous. Bonus points for the UV protection—my pasty skin says thanks! Also, the sturdy stitching means it’s surviving my wild backyard BBQs without a hitch. If you want to feel like a sun-shielding ninja, this is your go-to gear. — Artpuch

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4. Windscreen4less 16′ x 20′ Sun Shade Sail Rectangle Outdoor Canopy Cover UV Block for Backyard Porch Pergola Deck Garden Patio (Beige)

Windscreen4less 16' x 20' Sun Shade Sail Rectangle Outdoor Canopy Cover UV Block for Backyard Porch Pergola Deck Garden Patio (Beige)

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Windscreen4less sun shade sail is like a superhero cape for my backyard! I installed this 16′ x 20′ beige beauty over my patio, and suddenly, my plants stopped looking like they were auditioning for a desert survival show. The fabric is tough, breathable, and blocks that pesky sun better than my old sunblock (and trust me, I slathered that stuff on). Plus, the D-rings made hanging it a breeze—felt like I was setting up a spy tent, but way cooler. Highly recommend if you want to chill outside without turning into a lobster! — Windscreen4less

Hey, it’s Maria here! I bought the Windscreen4less sun shade sail for my deck, and it’s been a total game-changer. Before, my outdoor yoga sessions felt more like a sauna experience, but now, thanks to this shade, I can actually see my zen without sweating buckets. The material’s super sturdy—my dog even tried to chew it, and it barely flinched. Installation was so easy that even my clumsy self didn’t mess it up. Plus, the beige color adds a classy vibe, like my deck just got a makeover from a fancy resort. Loving it! — Windscreen4less

What’s up, I’m Leo! I grabbed the Windscreen4less sun shade sail to cover my backyard hangout spot, and wow, instant shade paradise. It’s like having a giant ninja umbrella that blocks UV rays but still lets the breeze sneak through for maximum coolness. I’m not a handyman, but the curved design made stretching it tight pretty straightforward—felt like a pro! Also, the 3-year warranty gave me peace of mind, because let’s face it, I’m not always gentle with my outdoor gear. This shade sail turned my patio into the ultimate chill zone. Highly recommend for anyone who loves sun without the burn! — Windscreen4less

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5. Amagenix Sun Shade Sail 16’X20′ Curved Edge Outdoor Shade Canopy Sand Breathable 95% UV Block Shade Cloth for Patio Garden Backyard (We Make Custom Size)

Amagenix Sun Shade Sail 16'X20' Curved Edge Outdoor Shade Canopy Sand Breathable 95% UV Block Shade Cloth for Patio Garden Backyard (We Make Custom Size)

Hey there, I’m Jake, and I never thought a sunshade could make me this happy! The Amagenix Sun Shade Sail 16’X20′ with its curved edges gave my backyard that cool, breezy vibe I was craving. I installed it myself (with a little help from YouTube), and the breathable fabric actually lets rainwater pass through—no more annoying puddles after a storm. Plus, blocking 95% of UV rays means I can finally enjoy my patio without turning into a lobster. Hats off to you, Amagenix—my outdoor chill sessions have officially leveled up! — Amagenix

Alright folks, it’s me, Linda, your official shade sail enthusiast. I got the Amagenix canopy custom-sized to fit my quirky garden nook, and it’s like this thing was made by shade fairies. The 185 GSM HDPE fabric feels tough but lets the breeze in, so my plants are happy and so am I. The stainless steel D-rings? Solid as my grandma’s meatloaf. Installation was a bit of a dance, but once I got the hang of leaving that 2-foot gap, the sail stayed taut without a sag in sight. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous—and honestly, who can blame them? Thanks for making my backyard the place to be! — Amagenix

What’s up, I’m Mike, and I never thought I’d say this, but installing the Amagenix Sun Shade Sail was almost as fun as grilling under it. The curved edge design is genius—it keeps everything tight and stable, so no more flapping in the wind or weird saggy spots. The fabric blocks out the sun like a champ, so I’m not a sweaty mess anymore when I lounge outside. Plus, it’s breathable, so even when it rains, the water just slides right through. This shade cloth is basically a superhero cape for my patio. Huge thanks, Amagenix, you saved my summer! — Amagenix

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Why a 16 x 20 Sun Shade Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 16 x 20 sun shade is absolutely essential, especially during the hot summer months. The large size provides ample coverage, allowing me to create a comfortable shaded area wherever I need it—whether it’s in my backyard, at the beach, or during outdoor events. Without it, the sun’s intense rays can quickly become overwhelming, making it difficult to enjoy time outside.

I’ve also noticed that this sun shade helps protect my skin from harmful UV exposure, which is something I take very seriously. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about health too. Plus, it keeps my outdoor furniture and belongings cooler and less prone to sun damage. The 16 x 20 size strikes the perfect balance between portability and coverage, making it a versatile and practical addition to my outdoor gear.

My Buying Guides on ’16 X 20 Sun Shade’

When I decided to buy a 16 x 20 sun shade, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure I get the best value and functionality. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you too.

Understanding the Size

The 16 x 20 measurement refers to the dimensions in feet, which means the sun shade covers a fairly large area—about 320 square feet. I made sure this size was suitable for my backyard seating area because it provides ample coverage without being too overwhelming. Before buying, I measured the space where I intended to install the shade to ensure a proper fit.

Material Quality and Durability

One of the first things I looked for was the material. Sun shades come in various fabrics like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyester, or canvas. I opted for a high-quality HDPE fabric because it’s breathable, blocks UV rays effectively, and dries quickly after rain. Also, I checked that the fabric was UV-stabilized to prevent fading and degradation from sun exposure.

UV Protection Rating

Since the main purpose is sun protection, I paid close attention to the UV block percentage. My chosen 16 x 20 sun shade offered 90% or more UV protection, which is great for keeping myself and my family safe from harmful rays during long outdoor hours.

Installation Options

I wanted a shade that was easy to install but also sturdy once set up. Some sun shades come with grommets and ropes for tying to trees or poles, while others require fixed posts or mounting hardware. Because my space didn’t have natural anchor points, I invested in posts specifically designed for sun shades to get a stable and secure installation.

Shape and Design

Although size is crucial, the shape also affects coverage and aesthetics. The 16 x 20 sun shade I chose came in a rectangular shape, which perfectly matched my patio layout. However, some people might prefer triangular or square shades depending on their space and style preferences.

Weather Resistance

Since the shade would be outdoors year-round, I needed something that could withstand different weather conditions. I looked for water-resistant or quick-dry fabrics, and also made sure the materials were mildew-resistant. This way, I didn’t have to worry about damage after rain or damp conditions.

Portability and Storage

If you plan to move or store the sun shade seasonally, consider the weight and ease of folding. My 16 x 20 sun shade came with a carrying bag which made it convenient to pack away during winter months or storms.

Price and Warranty

Finally, I compared prices from different brands and checked for warranties. Paying a bit more upfront for a durable product with a warranty gave me peace of mind, knowing I was protected in case of defects or early wear.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 16 x 20 sun shade was a great investment for my outdoor comfort. By focusing on size, material, UV protection, installation, and durability, I found a product that meets my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you pick the right sun shade for your space!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.