A covered patio gives you a more comfortable place to gather with your family and friends. On top of providing sun protection, the new cover keeps your grill and other outdoor equipment in good condition for longer. Once you’ve decided you want to cover your patio, your next step is to choose the right material to suit your goals. Taking a look at the different options you have available gives you insight into the next step to take to plan your project.
Create a Classic Look with Wood
As you explore different styles of patio covers, you’re likely to come across quite a few made of wood. Cedar and redwood are common types of wood patio builders use for covers, but you can also select from other kinds. Wood comes with the benefit of being less expensive than other types of materials. Treated wood can also be resistant to rot and pest infestations, but there’s a higher risk of these issues compared to other options.
Choose Aluminum for Easy Maintenance
You can trust that aluminum won’t develop pest infestations. An aluminum patio cover can be a good choice for a San Diego home because it minimizes the maintenance needed for other materials, such as sealing wood. While aluminum is mostly resistant to rust, it’s susceptible to developing dents. People who live in areas with hail or high winds may need to choose sturdier materials for their patio covers.
Consider Vinyl for Durability
Vinyl tends to offer people many of the benefits they hope to achieve. Vinyl is naturally resistant to rot and wood-boring insects. You can also find vinyl patio cover materials in a variety of different colors and textures to create the look you love. A vinyl patio cover also requires minimal maintenance, but some lower-grade types are vulnerable to discoloration over time. Simply spraying the patio cover down with water periodically can reduce dirt buildup that contributes to staining.
Let the Light Through with Polycarbonate
If you love the look of a sunroom but don’t want to section off the patio with walls, you’ll love the look that polycarbonate covers provide. You can choose from clear or tinted polycarbonate to allow just the right amount of natural sunlight to pass through. With the cover in place, you’ll still be able to enjoy the patio on a rainy day. But the clear covering also allows you to take in the beauty of nature as you observe the sky.
Use Fiberglass to Mimic Other Materials
Fiberglass is another popular patio cover option. Modern fiberglass materials come with UV-resistant coatings that prevent fading and staining from long-term exposure to the sun. Similar to vinyl, you can choose from a range of different colors and textures to match your home’s aesthetic. Choosing a patio cover with a reflective coating can also keep the space more comfortable during warmer parts of the year.
Are you ready to transform your outdoor space into a stylish, comfortable retreat? Reach out to RKC Construction, the experts in patio cover installation San Diego homeowners have trusted for more than 20 years, today for a free quote and let our team design and install a custom patio cover tailored to your home’s look and lifestyle. Whether you’re aiming for extended shade, added living space, or an aesthetic upgrade, we’ve got the solutions and expertise to make it happen. Call us today or submit our quick online form and take the first step toward your outdoor living transformation!
