A Guide to Patio Covers & Outdoor Living Spaces
When creating outdoor spaces, designers recommend dividing the area into “rooms” for different activities like relaxing, meditating, or cooking. Depending on size, outdoor rooms may be multipurpose. For example, a space may be configured for relaxing after work and entertaining on the weekend. What’s critical to a well-designed backyard is establishing clear boundaries through plantings, hardscape components, or outdoor patio covers.
Why Outdoor Patio Covers Are Game-Changers
Adding patio covers not only defines an outdoor space but also provides protection from the elements, extends its usability, and increases property values.
Extended Usability
Patio covers protect against rain and light snow, allowing families to use the space into the fall and early spring. The covers can provide shade and reduce radiant heat, lowering utility costs during summer months. With a patio heater, a patio can become a gathering spot for friends and family.
Protection
Covered patios protect people from the elements and reduce the environmental impact on outdoor furnishings. Without protection, ultraviolet (UV) rays degrade outdoor chairs, couches, and tables. Using furniture coverings with patio covers can extend their usable life.
Property Value
Well-designed outdoor spaces improve a property’s appeal. In areas where outdoor living is year-round, patios increase the available living space, allowing buyers to maximize their investment. Who wouldn’t want a home with an inviting outdoor retreat?
Exploring Patio Cover Options
Although patio covers can be made from wood, aluminum, vinyl, or fabric, Duralum coverings offer the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability of aluminum. Unlike pergolas and gazebos made from wood, Duralum does not require the ongoing maintenance of wood.
Wood-like aluminum patio covers come in a variety of styles, such as:
- Apollo Louvered. Motorized louvered panels allow homeowners to control coverage.
- Lattice. Lattice patio covers use crisscrossed strips to provide partial sunlight and ventilation.
- Flat Pan. These patio covers operate as an awning system for a smooth and sleek look.
- Insulated. Aluminum panels contain a foam core to help regulate temperature and enhance comfort, extending the usability of an outdoor space.
With nine colors to choose from, Duralum can turn patio cover ideas into reality.
Designing Dream Outdoor Spaces
Well-designed outdoor spaces begin by defining how the room will function and ensuring the design integrates with the home. Attached patio cover ideas should blend with a home’s architecture and function as an extension of the indoor space. Flat pan covers can attach to a house to protect an existing patio.
Louvered panels can make that personal retreat available come rain or shine. Lattice patio covers present a classic design over decks or patios. Adding string lights to a lattice cover softens a space for entertaining.
Quality First: Expert Design & Installation
No matter the design’s attractiveness, it cannot become a reality without a qualified home renovation contractor. Attaching a patio cover to a house requires an experienced team to avoid structural issues. Knowledgeable contractors can recommend adjustments to ensure an aesthetically appealing result.
With years of experience, Quality First has designed and built patio covers that seamlessly complement a desert landscape or a mountain retreat. Whether a cover for an outdoor kitchen or an extended deck, Quality First has skilled teams that ensure projects meet customer expectations.
Ready to Create Your Oasis?
What does your oasis look like? Is it an integrated indoor/outdoor space that lets children play in the pool while you relax in the shade? Is it a quiet, out-of-the-way space that needs year-round protection? Whatever it is, Quality First Home Improvement can help. Contact them for a free consultation and to start planning your dream outdoor living space.
Image credit // Shutterstock // Artazum
