Selecting a patio cover or pergola involves more decisions than most property owners anticipate. Even selecting what kind of structure to install can be challenging. Materials, lifestyle, budget, sun exposure, and your space’s limitations are critical considerations. The more information you have, the better the final result will be.
Types of Patio Covers
One early decision is whether you want a solid deck cover or a pergola. Most patio and deck covers are solid. When you extend them, coverage is complete. When you retract them, you get open views. However, some people prefer pergolas—freestanding structures with roofs composed of adjustable slats. You can rotate them fully closed to block everything or keep them mostly open to allow sunlight to stream through.
Once you’ve chosen a structure type, consider materials. Wood brings a natural warmth to a structure, making it ideal for traditional homes, but it can be vulnerable to bugs and harsh weather. Aluminum is extremely durable in a variety of conditions and comes in numerous finishes. Glass offers protection without blocking views. Acrylic, a lightweight material, also lets light stream through. Careful material selection will take style, maintenance needs, and budget into account.
The Best Residential Patio Covers
Before committing to a design, know what your space can accommodate. Size and layout are the first considerations, so start by measuring your space. Consider the location of doors and windows, as well as views from inside the home. Sun exposure is another consideration, one that affects both where you place the addition and whether your patio cover is stationary or retractable. Potential attachment points on your existing structure must also be noted, as must the condition of your deck or patio. In many places, permits are required before moving forward, so those must be handled, too.
Great deck covers are about more than structure and style, though. Your lifestyle matters. When you imagine enjoying your outdoor space and consider your own habits, what do you envision – relaxing outside, entertaining large groups, having quiet dinners with family? Also consider upgrades that make your space usable in all seasons. Integrated lighting and heating can make decks and patios cozy in more types of weather, as can privacy screens.
Budgeting for Aluminum Pergolas and Other Structures
Budget is a priority for most people, so let’s discuss what impacts cost. Size is the most significant one. The larger your structure, the more material and work you’ll have to pay for. Material choice also matters. Wood, aluminum, glass, and acrylic all have different costs, including projected maintenance costs down the line. Stationary vs. motorized features impact things, too. Motorized covers with automation cost more in the short term but often save maintenance costs in the long term since they can retract automatically in high wind. Site-related complications sometimes arise and boost the price. Method of attachment, the condition of your current space, and the terrain of your property all matter. Permits and approvals come with fees.
Some property owners consider DIY methods to save money, but that has pitfalls. Since patio covers and pergolas are meant to last for years, imperfect installation can create big problems over time. Anchoring and drainage are aspects of installation that often go wrong when done by non-professionals. A properly built and installed structure expands your living space for a long time, turning professional installation into an investment. If you keep the above concerns in mind, you’re bound to love your carefully crafted patio cover or pergola!
