Adding a cover to your patio allows you to transform this space into an outdoor oasis that you can take advantage of in almost any weather. If you have decided that a patio cover is exactly what you need for your outdoor space, you’ll soon realize that there are several things you must consider. First and foremost is the type of material you will use.
There are multiple factors you must consider when choosing your cover material. For example, you’ll want something that is capable of withstanding the elements for years to come. The stronger the material is, the better protection it offers the things sitting on your patio. At the same time, you’ll want a material that is lightweight, ensuring you are comfortable when standing or sitting on your patio.
Three materials are most often used for patio covers. Here’s a quick look at what they are, as well as their top advantages and disadvantages.
Wood
Wood is beautiful and has a timeless quality that appeals to many homeowners. Wood can be found in a wide array of colors, textures, and types, making it pretty easy to find a style that goes well with your home’s exterior. Additionally, the use of wood has minimal impact on the environment.
On the other hand, wood requires frequent upkeep because it has the tendency to rot, warp, and peel easily. Routine sanding and repainting are crucial for upkeep, which can be time-consuming. And, despite your best efforts, wood usually doesn’t have the lifespan of other patio covers, meaning it will need to be replaced more often. As wood is already an expensive option, this only adds to your costs.
Aluminum
Well known for being strong and lightweight, aluminum is notorious for its low cost, durability, and need for minimal upkeep. Not only is it one of the most affordable options available, but it tends to offer excellent protection from the elements, while not compromising on comfort. In addition, aluminum is not subject to cracking, rotting, or warping.
At the same time, aluminum, as a metal, is an excellent conductor of heat, which makes heat retention a real problem on all those hot Houston days. This may cause you to feel uncomfortably warm when sitting or standing under a patio covered with regular aluminum panels.
Vinyl
Definitely a low maintenance patio cover, vinyl doesn’t require all the sanding and repainting that wood does. When choosing a high-quality vinyl, there will be little to no upkeep involved, with the exception of occasionally washing it off. Surprisingly, you can purchase vinyl that has a similar look to wood, which may be a good option if you love the look of wood, but dread the upkeep involved. Vinyl is also relatively inexpensive.
Unfortunately, while you can find vinyl that looks similar to wood, it rarely comes anywhere close to the beauty of real wood. It’s also not unusual for homeowners to complain that vinyl looks inexpensive. Vinyl is only available in a limited number of colors and cannot be painted, making it hard to find a tone that complements most homes. It is also prone to fading with time.
A Final Option: A Combination of All Three
Alumawood™ patio covers combine wood, aluminum, and vinyl into one impressive patio cover. Alumawood™ has the look and feel of real wood without the need for constant painting and sanding, yet is strong and lightweight like aluminum panels. The only difference is that it doesn’t retain heat. Alumawood™ also isn’t prone to cracking, rotting, and splitting, which means almost no upkeep is needed to keep it looking great.
At Texas Patio Building, we are committed to helping customers find patio covers that are beautiful, long-lasting, free of maintenance, and able to withstand the Houston weather. This is why we use wood. Stylish and strong, they offer the maximum amount of shade and cooling you need to withstand the humidity Houston is known for, while also offering protection from popup rain showers.
