Patio cover is a structure that provides protection or shade to your patio. Aside from that, it also gives an inviting vibe to your home. However, the material used for it will determine its durability and style.
Your family will likely spend or hang out at your outdoor patio. As a matter of fact, most of your activities will be held out there. For instance, your family may do the grilling, dining, and many more because entertainment outside is limitless.
Still, you must consider what material your patio cover is made of. This will help you maximize your space and money. The following will help you select which material best suits your family’s needs and lifestyle.
1. Aluminum
Earth’s crust is known to be composed of approximately 8% of aluminium. That is why it is the most abundant metal in the world. Also, this metal is one of the most commonly used material when it comes to construction.
Pros
Aluminum is inexpensive and durable. It resists to different outdoor conditions especially heavy rains and winter. Plus, it is a good heat conductor metal so extreme heat will not result to significant damage.
Furthermore, insects or bugs will not cause a problem with this material. You do not need to coat it with too much chemical because it does not rot, warp and even crack. Indeed, a low maintenance cover material for your patio.
Aside from its heavy duty properties, it also comes in different sizes, shapes, colors and styles. Moreover, aluminum patio covers are sturdy yet light-weight. Hence, making it helpful in creating complex and sleek design for your patio.
Cons
Since it is known as a good heat conductor, it can intensify the temperature depending on the weather. So your comfort during summer and winter will be compromised. Thus, recommended for temperate climates.
Though it may be durable, it is still susceptible to dents during storms and hurricanes.
2. Wood
This material has been already used since the early ages. Wood for patio covers also comes with different sizes and shapes. In fact, it is timeless and aesthetic, therefore, preferred for a stylish or vintage look.
Pros
Designing it with your house will be stress-free because you may paint on it, providing you a vast range of colors. Also, its natural color and pattern help you achieve your desired minimalist look for your patio cover. In fact, its lovely exterior is versatile for any home.
In addition, the costing for wood as a patio cover is inexpensive, too. Along with this, its wooden sections are easy to install and replace unlike metal. It also withstands dents and heavy stress without being damaged.
Cons
Prolonged contact to moisture or water will cause damage to it. It needs pre-treatment to repel insects and mites. In other words, it is prone to rotting, warping and peeling.
This also requires re-painting and polishing to maintain its look. Based from the aforementioned, it is indeed a high maintenance material.
Still, wood is a natural material so it lacks uniformity from one lumber to another.
3. Vinyl
Vinyl is known to be the world’s most versatile plastic. It is used to make almost everything. Vinyl is everywhere, may it be from wrappers used for food to your auto’s body parts.
Most of the makers of vinyl are engaging into using recycled materials for its production. In that case, it is gradually turning into an eco-friendly option.
Pros
Vinyl as a medium for your patio cover is a good option as it is available at different colors, styles and prints. It resists different weather conditions and does not peel or rot. Another thing is it can not be destroyed by pests or other mites so pre-treatment will not be required.
Maintaining it does not involve much of an effort. All you need is soap and water to clean it off and it will go back to its newly-bought look. You also do not need to sand or repaint it like how wood-patio covers are maintained.
Vinyl-patio covers are hassle-free to install and is intended to last long as aluminium. Similarly when it comes to the durability of aluminium. However, vinyl is still cheaper or less expensive that aluminium.
Cons
Advantages always come with disadvantage so is with using vinyl for patio covers. It will be a bit tough when it comes to designing. There is only limited color options. Unlike wood and aluminum, vinyl does not give off a fancy look.
It does not rot or peel but rather fades over time. Its surface can not be repainted unlike wood making it hard to blend well with your home’s tone.
4. Alumawood
From the name itself, alumawood is a combination of aluminum and wood. Indeed, another innovation when it comes to the production of patio cover materials.
Pros
Just like aluminum, alumawood is light-weight making it easier to transport. When it comes to construction, it can be attached to an existing section of your house. With this in mind, you do not need to make major adjustments or renovations on your patio.
Another good thing about this material is that it does not peel, crack, and chip off. Things such as sealant or treatment are not essential since it does not attract mites. It is low maintenance because you may clean it even just using a fabric.
Moreover, it will endure various weather conditions and will not yield signs of wear and tear. This also offers numerous color options from natural wood colors to plain colors. So if you want to be creative with your patio cover then this might be excellent for you.
Cons
Alumawood is said to be about 25% more expensive than wood. It is light-weight so if you want to repaint it, you have to be cautious because it might get damaged.
Other Tips for Choosing the Best Patio Covers
First, have a thorough read which among the mentioned suits your budget, needs and preferences. Then, you better take note each material’s strengths and weaknesses to weigh your top choices. Lastly, do not be afraid to tweak the materials and let your imagination become a reality.
Conclusion
None of the aforementioned is a perfect material because all of them have weak points. Still, aluminum, wood, vinyl and even alumawood are excellent choices for your desired patio cover. You either have to choose functionality or being aesthetic because most of the time you can not have both.
Regardless of its type and look as long as it unleashes your creativity, purchase it. More importantly, your chosen patio cover material should let you enjoy the essence of outdoor fun and time with your family.
- What Is The Best Material For Patio Covers? - August 28, 2020
- What is the Best Fish for Patio Pond - August 28, 2020
- Best Way to Clean Patio Umbrella - August 28, 2020