subject: How To Choose The Right Patio Covers For Your Home [print this page] It's blistering hot under the summer sun, wet and soggy when it rains, icy and slick in the winter. It's your patio, and it was supposed to add value to your home -- but without a patio cover, it's just wasted space. patio covers come in a variety of materials and the options are almost limitless: open lattice, solid surface, retractable, just to name a few. There's a solution for any size home and for any budget, but doing your research and knowing what you want before you call the contractor can save both time and money.
Open lattice or a pergola designs are made of slatted wood, aluminum panel or even vinyl and can offer shade without completely blocking out sunlight. Pergolas and open lattice also let fresh air and cool breezes flow freely throughout the space. Slatted roof covers are just what they say: a solid roof completely covering your patio. This option is perfect if you want to easily install lights, fans or other electrical appliances like stereo speakers. If your patio doubles as a parking pad, this option also protects your vehicle(s) from the elements.
Once rarely seen unless on RVs, mobile homes and campers, retractable awnings are an increasingly popular type of covering because of their versatility, ease-of-use, low maintenance and affordability. Retractable awnings come in almost any size and color you can imagine, and can shade your outdoor living spaces from the sun and precipitation when necessary, and rolls up when not in use. Since these awnings are motorized, no heavy lifting is necessary -- it's as easy as pushing a button. A sunroom is a great option if you'd like to add more livable space to your home, and you want to enjoy it year-round. Want the feeling of being outdoors without actually braving the elements? Then consider enclosing your patio with walls of windows and creating a sunroom.
A screened-in patio offers a more affordable option than a glass-enclosed sunroom, while still offering many of the same benefits. You can enjoy your screened-in room almost year-round, depending on your climate, without the hassle of insects or inclement weather. Besides shielding you from the sun, snow and rain, adding a patio cover to your home can extend its life along with that of your deck and outdoor furniture. You'll also add valuable, comfortable living space to your home.
