5 tips to help you buy the right patio cover

If you’re looking for ways to make your house more appealing, you should definitely consider adding a patio cover. It enhances not just the overall appearance of your space but also makes the backyard and outdoor area accessible in every season. The right patio cover makes for a great hangout spot as well, allowing you to party and spend quality time with family and friends without having to worry about the sun, rain, or snow.

But that doesn’t mean you just go ahead and buy the most attractive patio cover you see. Here are five tips that will help you make an informed decision.

Ensure that you know it’s purpose

There’s nothing worse than buying a patio cover without knowing why you need it in the first place. Patio covers get you extra space, which can be enjoyed in every weather. It also allows you to enjoy the outdoors without having to step out of your place. If those reasons, among countless others, are enough for you, there’s no reason to hold back.

Do you have space?

Knowing how much extra area you have in the exterior part of your house helps while buying a patio cover. An oversized cover can spoil the aesthetics of the place. So it makes sense to measure the amount of available space. Depending on that, you can choose from lots of different sized patio covers.

Location matters

Patio covers are meant to increase the beauty of your place. That means you simply can’t place it anywhere you find space. Think about where you’ll be keeping it, or consult an expert before looking at options. Knowing the exact location of the patio cover will help you better visualize the different choices and see if it works for you.

Your options

Once you’re absolutely clear about the purpose and the place where you’ll be placing the patio cover, it’s time for you to choose from the different options at your disposal. Patio covers come in various types, which are divided and subdivided on the basis of style and material used.

• On the basis of material

Wood

Wood is easily the most common type of patio cover used in the country. It adds great aesthetic value, giving your house a real vintage feel. You can choose from multiple colors and design options and even customize it to your liking. If your roof is also wooden, it makes a whole lot of sense to go with this patio cover. However, keep in mind that wooden patio covers can get expensive since it needs regular polishing and water-resistant coating.

Vinyl

Vinyl covers are also quite popular, given their low maintenance and durability. Once installed, a vinyl patio cover will last for years without needing polishing or care every 6-12 months. Ensure, though, that your cover is UV-resistant as the scorching heat can sometimes lead to discoloration. As far as designs are concerned, rest assured that you’ll find enough options to choose from.

Aluminum

Aluminum patio covers come with a host of benefits, including all-weather resistance and the ability to withstand wear and tear. The metal is one of the lightest, so it’s really easy to design and customize, but it is strong at the same time and doesn’t rot like wood either.

• On the basis of style

Pergolas

If you’re a nature-lover or someone who just loves plants, you’ve gotta check out pergolas! They’re identified with wooden or metallic beams that extend from supporting walls or columns. They add a really artistic vibe to your backyard and are enjoyable in the evenings.

Lattice

Latticed patio cover doesn’t provide complete protection from the weather, but that’s not why people buy it. The crossed design allows just the right amount of light to enter, creating a stunning visual pattern. This removes the need for artificial lighting as well since the natural light provides enough illumination for the backyard. Having said that, this patio cover isn’t of much use when it’s rainy or snowing.

Customize it further

Don’t forget to add speakers, lights, and fans to your patio cover. These things will enhance your patio even further and make it aesthetically pleasing.