Coverage for your built-in concrete slab or deck is essential for comfort, especially during the summer months. One solution is to install a patio cover to provide shade and protection from the elements. A patio cover is a shade structure that is usually attached to the backside of your home.
You can find patio covers in many different styles, shapes, materials, and sizes. Types of patio coverings include awnings, retractable patio covers, gazebos, carports, and pergolas. Each type will block the sun and rain to a degree; however, only a permanent patio cover will guarantee the highest level of protection.
Benefits of Patio Covers
Protection from the Elements
One of the main benefits of installing a patio cover is the protection it provides. Rain, snow, or rays from the sun won’t keep you inside anymore. A patio cover offers shade on sunny days and keeps your outdoor furniture from fading. An overhead fan can be added to the ceiling of the patio cover to provide additional relief from the heat.
Increase Home Value
The addition of a permanent patio cover to your home can increase its value. Patio covers can be made to complement the existing design and materials of the home. The added square footage, as well as the aesthetic value, will surely attract buyers when you are ready to sell.Help Reduce Energy Consumption
Installing a patio cover will make lower the temperatures inside your home. The shade that it provides causes less dependency on air conditioning, which results in energy savings.Less Maintenance
Patio covers reduce the debris that falls on your deck or patio after a storm or strong winds. Your outdoor furniture will stay cleaner as well.Entertainment
Birthday gatherings, cookouts, or just a quiet evening reading a book can all be done under the patio cover. It provides a good recreation area where the people that matter the most can have a great time. You can enhance the covered space by adding a television to watch your favorite movies or play video games.Multi-purpose Space
By adding a roof to your patio, you have given yourself options on how to use this space. You can turn it into a play area for your children or a home office for work. A covered outdoor space can always accommodate the changing needs of your family.
Types of Patio Covers
There are 4 basic materials used in making patio covers: wood, vinyl, cloth and aluminum. You can see from the list below why RainTight only uses aluminum to build our high quality, long-lasting patio covers for a beautiful, yet affordable solution.
Wood
Wood is one material used in patio covers. It is a customizable material due to the many variations of wood, texture, and color.
Pros
Cons
Vinyl
These patio covers are made of the same material used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping. Vinyl covers are strong and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Pros
Cons
Cloth
Another patio cover option is cloth. It is made of a fabric blend containing both natural and synthetic materials.
Pros
Cons
Aluminum
Aluminum is the most commonly used metal material for patio covers. Although lightweight, it is durable enough to withstand strong winds and rain. An aluminum patio cover also has a long lifespan. Strengths and weaknesses are:
Pros
Cons
Expand Your Outdoor Living Space
Patio covers offer tangible benefits for your home and family. Let RainTight install a solution that will last a lifetime. Our team of professionals will assess your space and give you options to best suit your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation.