When you close your eyes, you can picture it. You’ve got it made in the shade, relaxing in your backyard, hopefully on your covered patio with an icy drink in your hand, a warm breeze dancing across your skin and the beauty of the outdoors all around you. All you need to make your vision a reality is the… patio cover.

But which kind of patio cover is best for your home?

There are several varieties of a patio cover to choose from, and each type has pros and cons. Here are three worth considering.

Aluminum Awnings

Pros: When it comes to patio and porch covers, aluminum awnings are a popular choice. They’re affordable, attractive, last for years and can be customized to fit practically any space. Unlike wooden structures, they aren’t vulnerable to termites or fires.

Cons: While they do provide an impressive amount of shade, traditional aluminum awnings are not insulated so they are not the most energy efficient.  Aluminum awnings aren’t able to keep the spaces they shelter quite as cool as some other options.

Alumawood Pergolas

Pros: The graceful lines and classic style of pergolas lend them a timeless appeal that looks amazing when nestled alongside your home or standing independently in your yard.  Choosing an aluminum pergola that is made from Structall’s revolutionary Alumawood allows you to enjoy the beauty of wood without the traditional drawbacks. Meticulously crafted, aluminum pergolas offer the look and feel of wood with embossed surfaces that mimic the grain of natural wood. In this case, appearances are delightfully deceiving because the material is aluminum, so there’s no need to worry about fire, destructive insects or warping, cracking or rot.

Homeowners can choose from several colors and multiple end cuts for beams and rafters, and there are even options for lighting and guttering. Best of all, minimal maintenance is required to keep these durable patio covers looking fantastic.

Cons: Pergolas traditionally have ceilings that resemble latticework, and the resulting openness allows sunlight and rain to penetrate the roof. As a result, the area under cover is more vulnerable to the elements than it would be if the roof were solid.  Pergolas are a great addition to a backyard, but they don’t replace a patio cover.

Structall’s Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels

A Structall panel solid roof pergola is an option.  It has the coverage of a roof and the look of a pergola.

Pros: Why does it matter if a patio roof is insulated? An insulated roof does a better job of shielding the space below from the intense rays of the Florida sun, keeping the area cooler and more comfortable. It also helps muffle sound, so a sudden burst of rain or hail is less likely to disturb anyone sheltering beneath it.

Structall’s Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels have a foam core wrapped in a metal skin and connect via a patented joint system for a strong durable construction that takes little effort to maintain. They come prefinished, but they can be topped with shingles or vinyl siding if a different look is desired, and they easily accommodate special features like lighting, ceiling fans or skylights.

Cons: A high-quality material, Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels come with an initial price tag that’s a bit higher than some other options.

Dulando Screen and Awning proudly serves New Smyrna Beach and the surrounding areas.  We thrive on helping transform backyard dreams into reality. To discover more about the possibilities for patio covers or request a free estimate, contact us today at 407-862-6060. or fill out our online form for a free design consultation.