When planning the perfect outdoor living space for your home, adding a patio cover is one of the best ways to maximise both form and function. Patio covers provide much-needed shade in sunny areas while enhancing your landscaping with elegant design options. Many styles are available when selecting a patio cover, from traditional wood pergolas and freestanding lattices to modern fabric structures.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of adding a patio cover and share five tips on choosing the right design for your outdoor landscape.
Benefits of Adding a Patio Cover
A patio cover can be a great addition to your home. It extends your living space, allowing you to make the most of your backyard. It also provides shelter from direct sunlight and can protect you from rain. Plus, a patio cover has many aesthetic benefits, adding visual appeal to your outdoor area and a nice touch of charm.
On top of these practical benefits, several financial benefits are also associated with installing a patio cover. Since they’re designed to last for years with little maintenance, they offer long-term savings on energy bills because of their ability to provide shade and insulation in the summer months.
In addition, if you plan on selling your home in the future, installing a quality patio cover can help increase your property’s value by making it more attractive and desirable.
Types of Patio Covers and Their Features
Patio covers are an excellent way to extend living space outdoors, offering shade and protection from the elements. A few different patio covers are available, each with unique features.
Awnings are one of the most common patio covers and can be either permanent or retractable. Permanent awnings are made from fabric or metal and attached to the side of the house, providing a shaded area right outside your door. They’re great for protecting large decks and patios and providing additional seating space when entertaining. Retractable awnings can be rolled up when not used, giving you control over how much sunlight enters the area. They come in various sizes and materials, so you’ll have no problem finding something that fits your budget and style preference.
Aluminium patio covers are lightweight and strong enough to withstand extreme weather conditions like high winds or heavy rains. They’re also easy to maintain.
Wooden pergolas are another popular option for patio covers because they can provide an attractive look to any outdoor area. Pergolas usually feature wide posts with rafters across the top, creating an open, airy feel that allows for plenty of natural light to enter your outdoor living space while still providing some shade during hot summer days.
Wooden pergolas can be customized with lights or fans depending on your preferences, making them even more versatile than other patio covers.
Finally, you might install a screened-in porch if you’re looking for extra privacy while still enjoying the outdoors without worrying about bugs or other pests getting in your hair! These covered porches can also add value to your home if you decide to sell in the future.
Tips for Choosing the Right Patio Cover Design
Choosing the right patio cover design is an important decision. The right design will protect from the elements and shade when needed and can also add aesthetic value to your outdoor living space. There are many factors to consider when selecting a patio cover design: material, size, shape, and colour.
Materials
The two materials used for patio covers are aluminium and wood. Aluminium is typically more durable, rust-resistant and requires less maintenance than wood. Wood may be more aesthetically pleasing. If you want a classic look, go with a wooden patio cover design; if you prefer something modern and contemporary, opt for aluminium.
Size
Size should also play an important role in your decision-making process as it will determine how much coverage the patio cover can provide. Make sure to measure the area that needs to be covered before purchasing so you can select the appropriate size for maximum protection from rain or sunlight, depending on your climate.
Shape
The shape is another key factor when choosing a patio cover design — rectangular shapes tend to offer more coverage and maximise space. In contrast, curved designs create an intimate atmosphere and add visual interest to your outdoor space. Additionally, if you have limited space or are working with awkward angles, consider opting for custom sizes or designs to get the best use out of your area.
Colour
Colour plays an important role in completing the look of your patio cover design; choose colours that complement or contrast with your existing furniture or decor theme for added visual appeal. Neutral hues like white, grey or black tend to be safe bets as they often pair well with any outdoor setting, but feel free to experiment by adding bolder shades like blues, reds or greens if you’re feeling adventurous! Remember that whatever colour option you choose should ultimately enhance rather than detract from the overall look of your outdoor living area.
Maintenance Requirements
When it comes to the materials and maintenance requirements of a patio cover, there are a few things you should consider.
Firstly, the material you choose will determine the amount of upkeep needed to keep your patio cover looking great. If you plan to place furniture under the patio cover, consider a sturdier option, such as metal or wood. These materials are durable, easy to clean and can be painted in any colour to match your home’s exterior.
If you would like something more modern looking, then vinyl materials are also available, which require very little maintenance except for occasional cleaning with a garden hose.
Another thing to consider when selecting materials for your patio cover is insulation. Insulation will help keep your outdoor area cooler in the summer and warmer during winter, saving you money on energy bills over time. Materials like concrete and steel are great options for insulation as they maintain their temperature, while other materials like aluminium may not be able to provide this extra benefit.
Maintenance requirements vary depending on the material selected, but all patio covers generally need some type of cleaning and inspection at least once or twice a year.
Periodically check for loose screws or nails and make sure that there is no visible damage that could compromise its stability or safety. Also, clear away debris underneath your patio cover regularly so it remains secure and balanced.
Knowing what material and maintenance your patio cover needs is important to ensure that it lasts for years and looks great too!
About Awnings and More Inc.-
Are you looking for a residential awning company near you? Awnings and More Inc. is your one-stop destination. We focus on offering high-quality customer experience and education with strong communication, accountability, professionalism, and integrity. Our services include retractable awnings, screen systems, pergolas & terraces, patio covers, security shutters, heated mats, deck resurfacing, and garage makeovers for commercial and residential projects. Book online, call us at (587) 317-6933 or email us to schedule a no-obligation consultation for your home or business.