Sunday, August 7, 2011

Wood Vs Aluminum - Patio Covers

Trying to decide on the material that should be used on your new patio cover can be frustrating. The first thought is "what type of wood should I use?" There is smooth, rough, Douglas fir, redwood, spruce and more. Here is one scenario that should help you to make an informed decision.

Your new wood patio cover has just been installed and it is beautiful. But while the natural beauty of wood is undeniable, there are also many drawbacks. It must be protected from various weather conditions. Acceptable methods include paint, stain and other various sealers (clear or colored). So you invest a little sweat equity and do it yourself. But even after all of your hard work, the sun dries and bleaches it and the paint peels. Before too long you start noticing cracks. These cracks allow moisture to be absorbed like a sponge and the wood starts to twist and warp. The nails start pulling out allowing the wood to move even more.

Now what? A little maintenance should fix the problem. Right? You make a trip to the hardware store where you purchase wood, nails, spackle, caulking and paint. At checkout you are thinking "wait a minute, I already paid for all of this material once". You replace a few components, re-nail, spackle and caulk, and re-paint as needed. But the problem still exists only to repeat itself over and over again. You ask yourself why did I ever have this thing built with wood? This continual maintenance is killing me, not to mention draining my bank account. If only I would have built an Aluma
wood shade structure.

There are many benefits to using Alumawood:


· The embossed texture simulates real
wood.
· A variety of designs are available. Choose lattice or solid top. Choose rafter styles.
· Other options include architectural columns and railings, ceiling fans and post lights.
· Offered in a variety of colors to compliment your stucco or wood finishes.
· It is virtually maintenance free. Just rinse it off once in awhile.
· Never paint again. Paint will not chip, crack or peel.
· Fire retardant. Possible home insurance rebate.
· Termite proof. Mold proof.
· Possible tax rebates through the Energy Star program.
· Peace of mind.

You shouldn't have to worry about your
patio cover after it is built. Just enjoy it.

1 comment:

  1. Wow. Good post. Great points between wooden and patio covers. Thank you for the learning. Keep it up.

    ReplyDelete