Wood Patio Covers - Making Your Home Both Beautiful And Functional

Wood is naturally durable and has been used for millennia as tools, furniture, homes and whatever else anyone could think of. And that's not to mention it can be beautiful beyond belief. If you do not mind the time it takes to maintain its look, then certainly wood patio covers can be perfect for improving the look and functionality of the space outside your home. The results can be very elegant and romantic.

Why add a patio cover? It is very simple actually. Patio covers allow you to enjoy your patio any time that you want to. If it is raining, you can still sit outside to enjoy the cool night air. The same applies during the summer when you can enjoy the shade that the patio cover will provide. Furthermore, the patio cover adds value to your home and improves the style as well. Utilizing wood as the material for your patio cover allows you to create something unique. The appearance of your house and the functionality of it will be completely in your control.

Wood choice is of supreme importance because the patio cover will be under constant bombardment from the elements. Your choice will need to be able to hold up to your areas weather conditions, and you do not want to have to constantly repair or treat it. When you begin your search, also keep in mind your current home appearance so that whichever wood you choose will compliment it.

Out of all of your choices, pinewood will keep paint very well. Unfortunately, though pinewood does not come with an anti-rotting agent. This is not so with other hardwoods. Several good choices for hardwood patio covers include cedar, cyprus and redwood. Staining the wood would require a long grained wood choice. Using a long grain wood allows a continuous and flowing design that knots in the wood will not hinder.

You can be very creative with your cover by adding decorative accents and designs to it. Going this extra mile will add a lot to the style, design and value of the cover, and your home as well. You may want to consider using arbors, latticed and solid roofs for your patio design. The arbors and lattice are intricate and ornately beautiful - you can try a combination of them to get something unique.

Keep in mind that manufacturers have been busy creating patio covers made from artificial wood. They are not wood and quite often need support by using real wood. Why bother adding real wood to fake when you could just use real wood to begin with? You will just increase your costs. These same companies have also created do it yourself wood patio kits. These kits are actually interlocking wooden tiles, much like those used for flooring, and can be taken apart to be cleaned and reinstalled at another location if need be. However, in the end, wood patio covers are the only sound choice you can make.

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Patio Covers Can Improve the Look of Your House

In the spring time a patio can really help you to enjoy the vibrant outdoors. You can organize summer parties and small picnic for your kids in the patio area. A patio gives you additional living space where guests and friends can be entertained. You can make your patio more impressive by adding attractive furniture, plants, colorful lights, rugs and paintings.

Adding a patio cover to your patio area can really be advantageous for you because these covers protect the area from the bright summer sun and rain. So, now let me tell you about some benefits of adding patio covers to your house.

1. It adds value to your house
It do not require additional space or area; in fact they really help in adding value to your home. Shade covers will give you the opportunity to spend time with your family and friends even under the blazing sun and when it is raining. Covers are very easy to install and they can really give an attractive look to your house.

2. The design and style should be considered
Before buying a shade cover you must consider the design and style. These days various home improvement stores and websites offer very good and unique patio cover designs to the customers. If you want you can even take good ideas and tips from your family and friends to create your own unique style and design.

3. High quality patio covers
High quality patio-covers are long lasting and durable and you can protect them from fading by applying good stain and sealers. If you are considering further home improvements in your house, then you can even cover your patio with glass or screen to give it the appearance of the sun room. Your patio cover would act as roof for sunroom.

4. Installing a patio cover
Installing a patio cover is not a very difficult task and you can even do it by yourself. For this construction process you need an installation kit which should include hardware, gauge stressed aluminum laminated skins, sealants, density EPS foam insulated panels, fasteners, columns and post wraps. All the written instruction about the construction process should also be provided in that kit.

5. You can hire a constructor
If you are not able install this by yourself then you can even hire a constructor for this process. An advantage of hiring a constructor is that they would provide you a life time warranty against finishing problems and leaks.

A properly built and engineered patio cover can really be a good investment for your house.

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Patio Umbrella Provides Perfect Shade and Protection

How the Patio umbrella has evolved from the common market umbrella, ordinarily being promoted as corporate giveaways with logos of products, brands and institutions, to outdoor umbrellas placed in cafe shops, hotel lounges, bistros, pools, gardens, terraces, patios and decks, and now popularly recognized as patio umbrellas is truly amazing. Its transformation from the use of ordinary cheap fabrics to elegant and expensive fabrics of various designs, colors, patterns and styles is quite remarkable.

With the unpredictable global warming climate, too much sun, wind and rains necessitate the protection provided by a sturdy umbrella. When you want to enjoy the relaxation of outdoor sceneries, patio umbrellas make it possible. Manufacturers saw the growing popularity and demand of these products and their designers and researchers have come up with a wide range of styles, sizes, features and types of patio umbrellas and accessories over the years.

Who can imagine that these umbrellas have been expanded and primarily categorized now as market patio umbrellas intended for sidewalk cafes whose price range from $ 300 to $ 400 depending on the manufacturer and the brand. The other category is the commercial patio umbrella which is ideal for patios, decks, garden furniture setting, beach, pools, children play areas, restaurants and other commercial establishments. Prices vary from $ 400 and up. Other kinds of umbrellas are the offset cantiliver type with no center pole, skyline, thatched and the regular deck umbrellas.

Nowadays, their frames can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, fiberglass, wood or metal. The umbrella shade size can be customized or ready-made from 6 foot wide up to 11 foot wide. With these, you can order your patio table with sizes ranging from 30-40 inches wide up 60+ inches wide. Umbrella features vary from the crank and tilt umbrellas, easy lift, and tilt with advanced automatic or remote control features and added market lights for evening use. The lights are string or ring type, and can be solar or battery operated LED lights with prices ranging from $ 800 and up. Colors normally available are black, blue, brown, green, orange, red, white and other variations.

When it comes to fabrics, manufacturers offer durable materials such as Acrylic, Obravia, Solefin, Spun Poly, Sunbrella, Suncrylic, etc. You should choose fabrics which can withstand the effects of adverse weather conditions. Most top of the line fabrics are UV resistant, fade-resistant, stain-resistant, mildew-resistant, maintenance-free, easy to clean and made from lightweight and high density materials.

Just to give you an idea of the classic features of an advanced Australian-made giant patio umbrella, it has a collapsible and 360 degree rotating capability that can follow the sun and keep you shaded throughout the day. It has a wind rating of up to 160 km/hr., designed to face up to the unpredictable natural elements and serve you for many years. It has replaceable external winch and shade covers made from acrylate-coated canvass or PVC vinyl with UV and water proof protection. The umbrella comes in different shapes: rectangular, oval, square, circular and octagon. The frame is made from marine stainless steel components and comes with easy DIY installation instructions.

To name a few brands of patio umbrellas, they are California Umbrella, Coral Coast, Fibert Built and Galtech. You can visit many local retail stores near you or if you want to make some canvassing, go online and surf the websites of patio umbrella suppliers. Research also the customer reviews and their ratings. A five-star rating is an excellent score for a designer brand umbrella. When you want to check on the prices of the products, you can click the price range from under $100 up to $500, and up. What will arouse your interest are the promotional or discount codes and coupons being offered as well as free shipping deals, clearance sale, gift certificates, etc.

So, for a relaxing evening and morning in your patio and deck, patio umbrellas are the perfect shade and protection solution. Not only do they exude a touch of class, sophistication, elegance and beauty, they give you added value and sense of pride every time you hear compliments from family, friends and guests.

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Let Your Patio Furniture and Patio Covers Set the Tone For Garden Living

Your patio furniture can set the tone for your outdoor living space. It doesn't matter whether your outdoor furniture is in a shaded area or out in the open by the pool. When the area is not in use it should be protected and so should the patio furniture using a good quality cover. Outdoor covers will keep your pieces looking fresh and new. There are many different styles and colors to choose from. Patio covers make your patio look inviting when it is covered or not.

You can get patio furniture in a variety of styles and materials. Choosing outdoor furniture can seem like a daunting task with all the available options out there. You will also see a big difference in prices of outdoor furniture. The price usually depends on what the furniture is made out of. What type you choose will depend on your preference and budget.

Buying the more expensive higher quality may cost you more to buy. However, in the long run, the furniture will pay for itself. It will last a long time and stand up to daily use. To protect it even further you can put patio covers on the pieces when not in use. One piece of high quality outdoor furniture could actually end of costing less than having to replace cheap pieces several times.

When you are looking at patio furniture you want to make sure the material is the right kind for your needs. Aluminum is a popular choice for patio chairs. Just be aware that unless the pieces have a baked on powder finish the patio furniture will start to corrode within a year of continuously being outside. On the other hand, the coated pieces usually come with a guarantee. Of course, the powder coated patio furniture will cost more, but will last a lifetime. The same is true of wrought iron furniture. The type that is power coated is more expensive but will last for a long time.

The quality of the cushion is very important too; because they get the most use. You want the cushion cover to be durable and have a UV and water protection coating on them. To double protect your patio furniture and cushions you should invest in high quality patio furniture covers.

Covers will protect your outdoor furniture from rain, moisture and the harmful rays of the sun. There are many different colors and designer collections to choose from. You can coordinate the covers with your outdoor décor and your patio will look warm and inviting with or without the covers.

There are an array of different styles and pieces of outdoor furniture to give you endless options when decorating your outside area. You can even mix and match different types of outdoor furniture to give your space a style all its own.

Patio furniture can be a big investment, especially if you get high quality pieces. You have spent your hard earned money on making your outdoor living space beautiful. To make it stay looking fresh and inviting; you should seriously consider also investing in high quality outdoor furniture covers.

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What is a Patio Cover's Purpose?

The purpose of patio covers is to provide each homeowner the advantages that the outdoors has to offer. Doesn't this sound perfect? I mean, what else could people have in mind when they go out and buy patio cover kits to help them get their patio covered as fast as possible? Right? Seems fair to me.

While it is possible that a kit can make your patio get covered much more quickly, there may be some problems with that way. If you are looking for a simple and easy way to go, then the patio kit is the way to go. It can also just help with planning on what materials to purchase and such.

If you are going to be building a pergola, probably a wood patio cover is what you had in mind. In this case, a kit may save you some on costs - but odds are it might cost a bit more. However, your time savings is where you will make up the real savings. A kit can be taken home and put together just like a child's playset. Some people, though, want their covered patio or pergola structure to have more of a custom look.

Patio cover kits also come in more modern materials like the composite plastics used for decking and some siding materials. These last for a longer period and do not need to be stained or painted. They also tend to resist damage from the elements. For these reasons, people who buy patio cover kits usually give them rave reviews. Most, if not all, of the guesswork has been done for you already.

As mentioned, if you are looking for a custom looking pergola or gazebo, then you are probably going to need to hire a pro. If you are fairly handy, you can probably tackle the project yourself. Remember to keep the purpose of your covered patio in mind. If shade is your main concern, your pergola can be modified to suit that desire. A more covered entertaining area or outdoor room can also be accomplished with a covered patio.

People that are natural hosts or entertainers by nature really like the fact that outdoor patio rooms can provide them more options. It just depends upon your individual tastes and needs. These types of rooms are called different things - patio decks, covered patios, etc. - depending upon where you live as well. So, when you are doing your search online, keep this in mind. What ever the name, remember that they all describe different types of patio covers.

If all you have beneath your cover is your patio furniture and a cold drink, you've already discovered the benefits. Kick your feet up, read the paper with your coffee out there in the morning or watch your kids run around in the evening, it is all good. If you know your patio cover can take the weight, you can also hang a patio swing. Another option is to partially enclose your patio with retractable awnings, patio shades or screens to create even more shade. When the weather gets bad, just roll them up.

The best of both worlds can be had by getting some motorized retractable awnings that attach beneath patio covers, providing more controllable shade. Planting vines or climbing bushes around the base of the posts of your cover can add that Mediterranean feel. This also creates an relaxing and enchanting space for you and your guests to enjoy.

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Choosing Between Patio Enclosures and Patio Covers

The one thing that nobody ever seems to have enough of is space. Because of this truth, many seek to expand into their backyard areas to create more usable spaces for their needs and enjoyment. However, there are multiple ways to approach this. Many seek to fully enclose their patio area from the outdoors to create a pleasant sun room or reading area. Others want to keep the patio open yet covered from bad weather. Both solutions have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Patio Enclosures
Patio enclosures are a great way to add an additional room or rooms to your home. This could be something as simple as a sun room or as elaborate as an additional kitchen. The main advantage to a patio enclosure is that you're completely cut off from the outdoors. This means that you can enjoy the space no matter what the conditions outside are like. For extremely cold or hot weather the enclosed space will function just as well. The main disadvantage of this, though, is the exact same as it's primary advantage - you're completely cut off from the outdoors. This is a detriment anytime that you want to lounge around feeling a cool breeze and enjoying the sunshine. Some people try to get around this by covering entire walls with panes of glass for the sun and using screens to allow wind to filter in. Whatever the final setup, a patio enclosures is a significant investment of money.

Patio Covers
A patio cover is a simpler solution that allows you to feel like you're still outside. The advantage of a patio cover is that you have greater assurance that your furniture and belongings won't be damaged by rain or direct sunlight. Patio covers come in all sorts of varieties so that you can choose which one is best for your home. Patio covers are a great solution if you still want to feel the wind blowing through your hair on a balmy summer day. You may not be able to use the patio area during the worst weather conditions, but when you do use the patio you'll still be part of the great outdoors.

Personal Space Solution
Make sure you consider your own unique needs before making a large investment into either a patio enclosure or a patio cover. Consider just how often you'll use the space before determining what the space will ultimately look like. This will help you make a better choice so that you can enjoy your patio area all the more for years to come.

Tag :  patio cover,patio enclosures,patio

Do it Yourself With a Patio Cover Kit

Covered patios can be a great addition to nearly any home.  However, many homeowners are reluctant to spend the large amounts of money needed to hire a contractor to build or install a cover for their patio .  One convenient option that allows consumers to spend money and still enjoy the a beautiful awning or cover for their patio is installing a patio cover kit.

Investing in a cover for your patio can be beneficial to homeowners for many reasons.  A covered patio actually increases the usable square footage of your home.  A cover also protects your deck or patio from the sun and the elements, allowing it to last much longer.

A roof over your patio allows you to enjoy the outdoors in any weather.  Whether you are entertaining guests on the grill or relaxing all alone, you will not have to worry about rain or overexposure to sun.  Plus, the addition of a covered patio may even increase the value of your home.

Still, the price of installing a patio cover is a concern for many homeowners.  Patio cover kits are a great way to lower the blow to your wallet while still enjoying a lovely cover over your patio.

Cover kits come in standard sizes or in customizable kits designed to fit your home's specifications.  While a standard kit is generally cheaper, your home may require a customized kit.  

Whatever design or material you prefer, chances are that there is a kit that fits with your tastes and preferences.  If you want lattice, solid aluminum, canvas, wood, or even a synthetic wood blend such as "alumawood," you will be able to find the right patio cover kit for your needs.


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A Homeowner's Perspective on Patio Covers

If you've come across this site and you are wondering something like "does this person even know anything about patio covers or how to build one? Do they even have one themselves?" I can tell you first hand that I do. In fact, this whole article is about my experience building my own cover for my patio - a pergola style patio cover to be more specific. Actually, I laid the brick pavers as well for the patio itself, but that's for another article.

You must be pretty serious about building your cover for your patio or you wouldn't be online searching information out. I'll tell you one thing, they are not easy to build. Simple, yes. Easy, no. If you have some good skills (and tools) you will be able to handle the job. Just make sure you put in the proper planning and prep time. A few friends wouldn't help either when it comes to the heavy lifting.

Having friends that like to build things like patio covers wouldn't hurt. I dare say, they will make your life much easier. In some respects, you will need some help just to be safe on the job. This part is related mostly to hoisting the beams into place.

I honestly don't recall the site I went to when I searched for "patio covers" or "pergola style patio cover" where I got my basic plans. Once you get your plans (this could be as simple as a picture of the one you would like to build - this is what I did) you can start a materials list. After doing my research, I chose to go with a bit larger dimensions (4x6) posts and 4x8 beams. I chose to use 2x8s for the top slat or lattice pieces used for the shade element. In hind site, these could have even been 2x10s, but I didn't want to spend a fortune or have to decide how to mount them.

Out here in the southwest, Arizona, these types of covered patios are common and provide a lot of welcomed shade in the months when sitting outside is even comfortable. The basic notion with a pergola is that those slat pieces (my 2x8s, could also be more beam-like and use 4x4s or 3x3s) provide a lattice shape that blocks the angle of the sun. It can also provide the support for vines or other plants to grow on and over giving more appealing shade and ambiance.

I chose the larger sized lumber over the easily purchased off the rack 4x4s from the local home improvement stores because that larger lumber has a more substantial and handsome look to it. It is really all about your personal preference when it comes to how you want the finished look of your patio cover.

With my project, I chose to pour footings and set prefabricated brackets purchased from my local home improvement store into this as it cured. The posts of my pergola were then set on these brackets after it was completely cured. The patio deck was made of brick pavers, so I needed a stronger foundation to set my posts on. If you have a slab already poured or are going to go this route, you can also buy brackets that will mount directly to the slab with anchor bolts drilled into the slab. I had to do it the first way by necessity, but I also read that patio covers built this way would remain level and plumb for longer.

When you are preparing your footings or area for your posts, ensure that you have taken careful measurements as this will allow for true angles and a square structure. I made this mistake with my pergola and I have a little bit of a lean when seen from a certain angle. With the plants and slats on, it isn't noticeable, but I see it of course. So, remember to draw all of your measurements from one place in order to keep everything true.

Once I knew that my footings were dug out in the right place, I poured the concrete and set the brackets. This took a little bit of trial and error to figure out how to get the brackets to sit up right. I think my concrete mix might have been a little thin. Well, once they were all poured, I had a cold beverage. I figured it would save me time and hassle to just do my staining (used a colored water sealant) while all the wood was on the ground. It was a good idea and I recommend it. After that, one more cold beverage and then wait until the next weekend to get started on the rest of my new patio cover construction.

Next step was assembly of the pergola. All my lumber was cut to size for the most part. I left the posts approximate cuts, so I could do some fudge work once I had a dry footing that was not going to change my measurements. Brackets can also be used to connect and anchor the posts to the top header beams. I chose to fabricate my own (happen to know how to weld). Not a necessary step, but it does add some custom appeal over the home improvement store galvanized zinc brackets. You can also paint those if you desire.

After using a lot of energy to get the posts set and plumb (tricky little buggers for the beginner) we put carriage bolts through the brackets and were ready to attach the beams. But first, I made sure the posts were cut to be the same height. After this step, the posts were holding firm and this allowed the rest of the patio cover project to go much easier. Now, all the weight would be resting on the posts. The only heavy lifting next would be the beams.

The custom made brackets then slide over the tops of the posts and I used lag screws to attach them. The beams dropped right into place in the channels I made. Finally, a smooth step in this pergola project! I opted to notch my top beams or slats so that the cover to my patio would appease my height restrictions from the HOA regulations regarding patio covers. I guess I should feel lucky they allowed it at all, right? Argh! In the end, the height measured at about nine feet. Also, the notched slats helped to provide some added stability to the top beams. These were simply screwed to the beams and I am looking forward to the vines and plants to grow over it now and provide that precious shade -not to mention hide all those minor imperfections....er...character.

Tag : patio cover,perspective,patio,homeowner