What Is A Patio Cover?

If your Googling "What Is A Patio Cover", this post should help explain what it is and what size you need!

What Is A Patio cover?

A patio cover is a structure that is generally used in the backyard to create a shade area which is attached to the home. It usually consists of two posts/columns that are used for supporting the patio cover. A patio's covers roof can be either open or sold, this depends on what the level of protection is needed.

Is there any particular place my patio cover should be built?

A patio cover should be built right off the house in an area in need of protection from sun or rain. [2] Many homeowners choose to have their patio cover built directly off, but attached to their back door, this way it can be used as part of their living space, only as an extension. To find out more about how much cover is needed for the maximum shade you should build you should contact a landscape professional. The most common areas to build patio covers would be over a patio or dining area, a built-in grill or an outdoor fireplace.

What size does my patio cover need to be?

"The size of one’s patio cover will depend on how large the area to be covered is." [1] Just remember, when building a patio to use as part of your dinning or entertaining to make certain it will be large enough to accommodate the patio furniture you are going to be using, and that the posts are going to be wide enough for people to walk around with ease.

A patio cover can be anywhere from 8' to 12' in height, keeping in mind, the taller it is, the less protection it is going to be of the elements. In addition, remember that the lower a patio cover is, the more cramp it is going to feel. You can ask a landscape architect or else a patio cover installer what the best height for your situation would be.

How do I know if I should have an open or a solid roofing for my patio cover?

You will get a different level of protection from an open patio cover than you will get with a solid patio cover. The open or rather a lattice roof will let light get in a little, and creates just a partial amount of shaded area. Whereas, a solid roof is going to block out all the light, rain, and snow. Generally, a solid patio cover will be made from aluminum. However, one can get a solid patio cover that is covered in roofing shingles that matches their home.

You can learn about the differences in an open patio cover and a solid patio cover and even find the help you might need in deciding by watching the video to the right.

What if I decide on a freestanding patio cover?

Patio's or shaded structures which is not attached to the home are referred to as pergolas. Checkout this article to find out more about pergola designs.

Cited Sources

“What Is A Patio Cover?” Remodel & Renovate Guide, 20 Nov. 2017, remodelandrenovatesite.wordpress.com/2017/11/20/what-is-a-patio-cover/.Network, Landscaping. “Patio Cover Design.” Landscaping Ideas, Landscaping Network, 1 July 2016, www.landscapingnetwork.com/pergolas/patio-cover-design.html.