Patio covers give you shelter from the sun, keep the house cool in summer and protect your outdoor furniture from weather damage.

Patio covers are very easy and inexpensive to install, and give you a sheltered outdoor space you can enjoy at any time of the year. There are patio covers in a wide range of materials, textures and colors, to suit any architectural style.

Patio covers can be custom designed to suit the climate in your area, taking into account the amount of wind and rain the covers will need to withstand, and the potential size of the snow loads they will need to support. In some areas, building approval is needed from the local authorities, so be sure to check that your plans comply with local building standards.

Common materials for patio covers.

Standard aluminum is durable, lightweight, and a very economical option. Aluminum patio covers come in a wide range of colors, and you can choose from a range of awning trims and decorative posts. Modern structural designs make the covers very simple to install, and you don’t need an unsightly understructure. The pans are made in an attractive deep ribbing shape, which is structurally very strong, and reduces the drumming sound during a heavy rain shower.

Aluminum which is molded to have the appearance of natural timber has a very attractive look, particularly for homes with a more traditional architectural styling. Like standard aluminum, they’re easy to install, light and very durable, but much less expensive than real timber.

Fabric awnings are a very simple, inexpensive way to create shade from the sun. They can be rolled away out of sight when shade is not needed, or during storms or heavy snowfalls. Fabric patio covers are normally not designed to stand under heavy water or snow loads, or withstand strong winds.