Patio Cover Options
Choosing the right patio cover can help improve your enjoyment of your yard. There are three main design options to consider before looking for the right cover for your needs.
Solid
Consider a solid cover if you want patio coverage at all times, rain or shine. Solid covers are typically fixed, which means your patio will always be sheltered and in the shade. They come in two main varieties — freestanding or attached (usually to the home or an outbuilding).
Solid covers typically have a wood or metal frame. Wood will need to be repainted annually, while metal will only need to be repainted if the old coat begins to flake off. Vinyl supports with a wood core are another option, and these require little, if any, maintenance.
The main expanse of the cover can be made like a roof, which means plywood decking and shingled over. This works well if the cover is attached to the home. Metal panels are also a common option. Generally, solid covers need to slant toward at least one side for drainage. This slant can be slight, but it is a necessity or else snow and water collection can lead to a collapse.
Open
Open covers allow dappled sunlight in, but they also don't protect completely from rain intrusion. This means they are best used on patios that are only utilized in fair weather. One reason open covers are popular is that you can grow vines or climbing roses over them for an attractive addition to the landscaping.
The most common design for open covers is the pergola, which is a flat grid-like cover supported on posts. Arches and other designs are also popular. The frame of the pergola is typically made of wood or vinyl, although wrought iron is also sometimes used. If you plan to grow up the frame, opt for a treated wood or vinyl so that you won't have to worry about maintaining the frame beneath the plants.
The top is made from wood or vinyl in pergola styles of open covers. It can also be made of metal, but this is usually only done for more delicate arched designs.
Retractable
For those that sometimes want cover and other times don't, retractable fabric awnings are the answer. These are made of outdoor fabrics that can be rolled up when not in use. There are manual versions you must roll up with a crank, and automatic versions that retract with the push of a button.
Some pergola and other open cover designs can be combined with retractable fabric panels. These panels move into place, usually with a button controller, when you want a solid cover for rain protection or increased shade.
Contact a patio cover service if you need more information.