Dreaming of an outdoor space you can enjoy all year?
No matter how big or small your patio is. There’s always mother nature threatening your outdoor plans. Rainstorms, intense heat, falling debris, etc.
Except now…
There’s patio cover solutions you can take advantage of to make any backyard into a usable living space 365 days a year.
It’s a win-win because 98% of contractors surveyed agreed that having an outdoor living space you can actually use adds value to your home.
Bigger ROI + low maintenance living space = good news for homeowners.
Let’s dig into patio upgrades that will make this possible…
What you’re going to discover:
- Why Year-Round Outdoor Living Is Trending Now
- Patio Cover Solutions For All Seasons
- Picking Patio Cover Materials
- Getting The Most Out Of Your Patio Cover
Why Year-Round Outdoor Living Is Trending Now
Outdoor Living Spaces have evolved past the “extra bonus” factor.
We’ve entered an age where outdoor rooms are just as necessary as their indoor counterparts. In fact, the pergola and patio cover structures market currently makes up more than 63% of overall consumer spend when it comes to outdoor living areas.
That should tell you something.
People are upgrading.
The pandemic years got people outside more than ever. And when people went outside, they wanted room to spread out. Patios, decks, and yards became a refuge to relax, play, and unwind.
Except when it rains…
Unless you’ve got some sort of patio cover extending out over your grill. All that extra living space you worked so hard to create becomes useless during bad weather or extreme temperatures.
Say hello to reliable modern patio covers that let you enjoy your outdoor space all year long.
Do you want to fire up the grill when it’s lightly raining? No problem.
Too hot out for the kids to play? Look no further than your new patio cover for some much-needed shade.
Not only will the right patio cover protect you from the elements. But adding this finishing touch to your outdoor space can greatly increase your home’s resale value if you decide to sell down the road.
Patio Cover Solutions For All Seasons
Before we jump into different materials you can use to create your own year-round outdoor space…
Keep in mind that not all patio covers are created equal.
Some options are only ideal for certain climates. Others offer more versatility than you might think.
Below we break down the best patio cover solutions to keep your living space comfortable no matter the weather.
Solid Roof Patio Covers
Your standard solid roof patio cover does exactly what you think.
It creates a barrier between you and the rain. Whether that be sun, falling branches, debris, or worst-case scenario… snow.
Ideal for:
- Heavy rain areas
- Maximum shade coverage
- Folks who want a full outdoor room experience
The downside to a solid cover is that there’s no see-through access to sunlight. If you want a bit of sunshine, you’ll have to look at one of the other options below.
Louvered Patio Covers
These bad boys are the definition of versatility.
Made up of horizontal slats, you can rotate louvers to allow sunlight in when you want. Then close the slats back up to keep rain and debris at bay.
Pros:
- Adjustable shade
- Built-in Ventilation
- Sleek Modern Design
The only downside to louvered patio covers is cost. Louvers do run a bit more expensive than solid roof covers. But they make up for it with their functionality.
Retractable Patio Covers
We move. You move.
Retractable awnings are perfect for people on the go.
Extend them when you need them. Retract them when you don’t. It’s patio cover heaven.
Retractable covers are great for smaller patios or decks where a permanent covering may be overbearing. Many motorized models can even retract at the touch of a button or automatically when it senses inclement weather.
Pergola Patio Covers
Pergolas have always been a popular option for patio covers.
They offer partial shade and protection with an open-air feel. But one problem exists…
Pergolas don’t keep rain off of you.
Unless you plan on running inside at the first sign of rain. Think about adding a cover to your pergola rather than replacing it entirely. Easily give your yard some weather protection while maintaining the classic pergola look.
Picking Patio Cover Materials
You’ve got your style of patio cover picked out.
Now it’s time to choose what your patio cover is going to be made of.
After-all, you only want to do this once. So you might as well choose materials that will stand the test of time.
Aluminum
You’d be hard pressed to find a patio cover on the market that isn’t made with aluminum these days.
From solid roof covers to retractable awnings. Aluminum isn’t just for looks anymore.
Benefits of Aluminum Patio Covers:
- Low maintenance
- Don’t rust or rot
- Extremely durable
Aluminum is wonderful for coastal areas because the salt in the air doesn’t eat away at the finishes like other materials.
Wood
When it comes to natural beauty, wood patio covers are hard to beat.
Typically using cedar or redwood, you won’t find many patio covers that offer the same high-quality look as real wood. Just remember that you will have to stain or seal your wood patio cover every few years.
If you’re someone that doesn’t mind a little upkeep. Wood is a fantastic choice for your home.
Vinyl & Composite
Vinyl and Composite are both man-made materials used for patio covers.
Vinyl is hands-down the best material for moisture and insect-resistant patio covers. Because just like aluminum. Vinyl won’t require you to stain or paint your patio cover.
Composite patio covers give you a blend of wood fibers fused with plastic. Making for a patio cover that will truly stand the test of time.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Patio Cover
Before you go running out to buy that new patio cover you’ve been eyeing.
Stop and think about how you can make that investment count the most.
Just buying a patio cover and hanging it over your deck won’t guarantee you’ll enjoy it.
Think about your climate.
Where you live should be the first thing you consider when shopping for patio covers. Someone who lives in the desert isn’t going to need the same sun protection as someone who lives in Seattle.
Ask yourself how you’ll actually be using your outdoor space.
Do you plan on cooking out every night? If so. A solid roof patio cover will be best. Thinking about making your own outdoor kitchen? Lounge area? Reading Nook?
Whatever you decide to use your new outdoor living space for. Make sure to get a patio cover that enhances your experience.
Don’t be afraid to call in the professionals for installation.
Patio covers that are improperly installed can cause headaches you’ll wish you never dealt with.
I’ve seen too many DIY patio covers end up leaking within the first rain or not being able to support heavy snow loads.
Helpful tip: make sure you check with your local city or county to ensure you have the proper permits to build. Because not doing so can create issues when you go to sell your home.
Wrapping It All Up
Extending your living space into your backyard doesn’t have to be a difficult or daunting task.
It all starts with doing your research to find the right patio cover solution that works for you. Then take it one step further and find materials that will give you the least amount of headache.
Here’s what you need to remember:
- Solid patio covers = maximum protection
- Louvered patio covers = shade control
- Material choice = Longevity
Patio Cover markets have never been healthier. As more and more homeowners realize the value of an outdoor living space they can actually use. Don’t get left out in the cold.
Upgrade your patio cover and start enjoying every season outside.
