When it comes to enjoying outdoor living in Colorado, comfort is key. Our weather swings from bright, dry sunshine to cool mountain breezes—all sometimes in the same day. That’s why more and more homeowners across Denver and the Front Range are turning to SunTex® solar screens to enclose their patios. 
If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor space, enclosing your patio with SunTex® screens is one of the smartest, most cost-effective improvements you can make. Here’s why.
What Are SunTex® Screens?
SunTex® is a high-performance solar screen fabric made by Phifer, designed to block heat, glare, and UV rays while still allowing airflow and visibility. It comes in a variety of openness levels (such as 80% or 90%), which control how much sun is blocked while preserving your view of the outdoors.
These screens are strong, breathable, and ideal for enclosing patios, pergolas, or porches—especially in places like Denver, where intense sunshine and elevation can be tough on outdoor spaces.
Benefits of Enclosing Your Patio with SunTex® Screens
1. Stay Cool and Comfortable Year-Round
SunTex® screens can block up to 90% of the sun’s heat, making a huge difference during Colorado’s hot summer afternoons. Whether you’re relaxing outside, hosting a barbecue, or working from your laptop on the patio, these screens reduce heat buildup and make your space way more livable.
Even better? The material still allows natural airflow, so you won’t feel boxed in or stuffy.
2. Protect Furniture and Flooring from Sun Damage
UV rays are the #1 cause of fading and deterioration for outdoor furniture, rugs, and cushions. With a SunTex® enclosure, you get built-in UV protection that shields your investment without the need for bulky coverings or constant maintenance.
Your patio furniture will stay vibrant, your deck will weather more evenly, and you won’t have to worry about pulling cushions in every time the sun comes out.
3. Keep Bugs Out While Letting the Breeze In
When installed as a full enclosure, SunTex® screens also serve as an effective bug barrier—keeping out mosquitoes, flies, and other pests while still allowing fresh air to flow freely. That makes your patio more usable in the evening and even into early fall, when bugs can still be a nuisance.
In areas like Centennial, Castle Rock, and Parker, where bugs and sun often battle for control of your patio, this combination is a game-changer.
4. Add Privacy Without Losing Your View
Depending on the openness level and color you choose, SunTex® screens can provide an excellent daytime privacy barrier. That means you can enjoy your patio without feeling like you’re on display—especially if your backyard faces other homes or a busy street.
And unlike curtains or solid enclosures, SunTex® maintains your connection to the outdoors. You still get to enjoy your yard, garden, or mountain view—just with more comfort and control.
5. Improve Energy Efficiency Inside the Home
Enclosing a patio adjacent to your home with SunTex® screens can help block sunlight from hitting windows and glass doors. That means less heat gain indoors, and potentially lower cooling costs in the summer.
We’ve had customers in Littleton and Lakewood tell us that after enclosing their patios with SunTex®, their air conditioning didn’t have to work as hard—especially during those triple-digit July days.
6. Boost Home Value and Outdoor Appeal
A well-designed, professionally installed screen enclosure adds both function and beauty to your home. It makes your patio a true extension of your living space—without the cost of a full sunroom or addition.
For buyers looking for outdoor comfort and energy efficiency, a SunTex® patio enclosure is an attractive and valuable feature that sets your home apart.
Why Choose SunTex® Over Other Screen Fabrics?
SunTex® isn’t just any screen—it’s engineered for performance in demanding environments like ours in Colorado. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- UV Protection: Blocks 80–90% of UV rays
- Durability: Strong vinyl-coated polyester resists tearing and sagging
- Ventilation: Maintains airflow and breathability
- Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and long-lasting
- Custom Options: Available in multiple colors and openness levels
It’s the perfect balance of shade, privacy, and visibility.
Upgrade Your Patio with Direct Awnings
At Direct Awnings, we specialize in custom SunTex® patio enclosures throughout the Denver Metro area. Whether you’re in Aurora, Golden, Broomfield, or beyond, our team designs and installs screens that fit your space, your needs, and your style.
We offer free, no-pressure consultations and walk you through the best screen type, frame color, and layout for your home.
Contact Direct Awnings today to schedule your consultation and see how enclosing your patio with SunTex® screens can change the way you live outdoors.
