Are you looking to make the most of your outdoor living space? Installing a covered patio could be the perfect upgrade for you. Whether you enjoy breakfast al fresco each morning, host dinners with friends and family, or even install a hot tub on your patio – all are possible when adding an overhead structure. Not only will it add some much-needed protection from the elements, but investing in a covered patio also adds extra value to your home. Read on to learn about all the advantages of having this type of multi-purpose outdoor destination area!
What is a Covered Patio?
The “great outdoors” is so named for a reason. And, while we love the sun as much as the next person, on a hot day, luxury may be as simple as a cool and shaded seat. A covered patio is a fantastic outdoor feature that provides both protection and style. It is essentially an extension of your home’s living space that is covered by a roof or awning. Making memories with family and friends can happen anywhere, but a well-designed area gives the ideal setting for entertaining, celebrating, or relaxing while enjoying the great outdoors.
What Materials Are Used to Build a Covered Patio?
One of the most important decisions to make when building a covered patio is choosing the right materials. There are several types of materials that can be used for covered patios, each with its unique advantages. Below are a few of the materials that can be used.
- Wood: Wood is a popular choice for covered patios as it provides a natural and rustic feel. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. However, wood requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and weather damage.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is another material commonly used for covered patios. It is durable, lightweight, and requires little maintenance. Additionally, aluminum is available in a variety of colors and finishes, making it a versatile material for your patio.
- Steel: Steel is a durable and robust material ideal for large, permanent structures. It is commonly used for commercial and industrial applications but can also be used for residential covered patios. Steel requires minimal maintenance but is susceptible to rust if not properly coated.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a low-maintenance material that is perfect for curved and complex designs. It is lightweight, durable, and resistant to weather damage. Fiberglass comes in a variety of finishes and colors, making it a versatile option for your covered patio.
- Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is another material that is becoming increasingly popular for covered patios. It is a lightweight, durable, and impact-resistant material that offers excellent protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Polycarbonate is available in a range of colors and finishes, including transparent and opaque options.
Choosing the right materials for your covered patio is crucial to its overall functionality and appearance. Wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, and polycarbonate are all viable options, each with its unique advantages. When selecting the materials for your covered patio, it is important to consider the durability, maintenance requirements, and design aesthetics of your materials.
The Advantages of a Covered Patio
A covered patio is a fantastic addition to any home’s outdoor space. It provides protection from outdoor elements, such as the sun or rain, allowing you to enjoy your space regardless of the weather conditions. Building a covered patio can also increase your property value and provide a versatile space to entertain your guests or simply relax with family and friends.
Covered Patios Provide Protection from the Elements
One of the most significant advantages of building a covered patio is that it provides protection from the elements. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or sunny, you can still enjoy your outdoor space comfortably.
Increased Property Value With a Covered Patio
Many homeowners wonder, “Do outdoor living spaces increase home value?” Backyard improvements provide more than just comfort to your house. The National Association of REALTORS® Research Department included new patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, and fire features among the most significant renovations for increasing the value of a house in its Remodeling Impact Report on outdoor features.
Backyard appeal is becoming more significant to house purchasers than traditional curb appeal, and outdoor living areas were the most favored home exterior feature for 73% of respondents in an American Institute of Architects poll.
A covered patio is an excellent investment for any homeowner looking to transform an outdoor space. It adds value, practicality, and style to your home, making it the perfect place to entertain guests or relax with family and friends.
Covered Patios Provide a Versatile Living Space
A covered patio is a versatile living space that can be used for a variety of purposes, from hosting barbeques to reading a book in the shade. The added space allows you to entertain guests more comfortably and creates an inviting atmosphere for relaxing with family and friends.
Low Maintenance Covered Patios
A covered patio requires minimal maintenance compared to other outdoor additions. This means you can spend less time maintaining your outdoor space and more time enjoying it.
Putting a roof over a patio
While umbrellas provide shade and weather protection, they may not provide a stable structure in conditions like heavy rain. A covered patio provides shelter from the weather while bringing comfort and beauty to outdoor living spaces.
Dispelling a myth
Contrary to popular opinion, a covered patio does not require a large open space and can be tailored to almost any yard size or outdoor living area. Consider a long, thin building against your house or fence line if you have a small space.
Changing your appearance
Depending on the positioning of your structure, you may opt to blend the aesthetics of your house’s façade and new covered outdoor patio, or you may use the extra area to modernize the look of your home.
Taking the heart outside
Kitchens, sometimes known as “the heart of the home,” are a natural and welcome meeting spot. But if your new outdoor living space becomes the social hub for your house, why should the host leave to prepare beverages, snacks, or desserts?
Covered patios that house your outdoor kitchen are a popular addition to outdoor living. A quality grill surrounded by counter space, cupboards, a sink, and a refrigerator will save party hosts from making several excursions from the party to the inside kitchen and back, all under the protection of your covered patio.
Increasing the temperature
In a covered outdoor living area, the grill should not be the main source of heat. Innovative fireplaces, fire pits, and fire tables will keep you and your family warm and cozy on a chilly evening. Entertaining in any weather just got easier.
Putting Everything Together with a Covered Patio
A Covered patio, as a natural extension of your interior living area, allows you to maximize the potential of your house and take full advantage of the additional gathering space. Weather-resistant materials and outdoor design elements have advanced, allowing families to construct “indoor-worthy” living areas just outside their doors. Whether you’ve already decided on the features you want or need additional ideas and inspiration for what’s feasible at your house, Integrity Hardscapes can help design and install a custom-covered patio to integrate into your outdoor living area. Contact us today to set up a consultation to get started on your outdoor living oasis!
