There are many different options for patio covers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular options include a louvered roof cover, pergola, awning, shade sail, retractable patio cover, and canopy tent. We will take a look at each of these patio cover options and compare them side-by-side so you can make a choice that best suits your needs.
Louvered Roof Patio Cover
- Louvered roof patio covers are made of a series of slats that can close automatically when it rains or by the push of a button if you want more or less shade. With Sundance Louvered Roofs slightly closed you get 100% shade and almost 100% ventilation at the same time. This makes louvered roofs a good option for hot climates, as they help to keep the space cool.
- Louvered roof patio covers are also very durable and weather-resistant in all climates even climates with heavy snow and strong winds.
- They add convenience when the weather changes in addition to customizable beauty and class to your outdoor space.
- However, they can be more expensive than other types of patio covers.
Pergola
- Pergolas are made of a series of arches that support a trellis or other types of covering. This allows for partial shade and can be used to support climbing plants.
- Pergolas are a good option for adding beauty and style to your outdoor space.
- They are also relatively durable and weather-resistant although they require a lot of maintenance.
- However, they do not provide complete shade or shelter from the rain.
Awning
- Awnings are freestanding or attached covers that provide shade and protection from the sun.
- Awnings can be retracted when not in use, which makes them a versatile option.
- They are also relatively affordable.
- However, awnings are not suitable for all climates and tend to mold in wet climates.
Shade Sail
- Shade sails are large pieces of fabric that are stretched between two or more posts to provide shade.
- Shade sails are a good option for creating a more private outdoor space and to shade from the sun.
- They are more expensive than pergolas but add style to your outdoor space.
- However, shade sails may not be suitable for all climates and may sag, they also require regular maintenance.
Retractable Patio Cover
- Retractable patio covers are covers that can be retracted when not in use.
- Retracting them helps them to last longer and not receive damage during storms and snowfall.
- Retractable patio covers are also relatively durable and weather-resistant (water-resistant and sometimes waterproof), except against high winds.
- However, they can be more expensive than other types of patio covers.
Canopy Tent
- Canopy tents are temporary covers that are typically made of fabric or vinyl and are supported by a metal frame.
- Canopy tents are a good option for providing shade and shelter from the sun and rain for temporary shelters.
- They are also relatively affordable and easy to set up and take down.
- However, canopy tents are not as durable or weather-resistant as other types of patio covers and are likely to blow away or receive damage in the wind.
Patio Cover Side-by-Side Comparison
| Patio Cover Type | Description | Material | Durability | Weather Resistance | Price | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LOUVERED ROOF PATIO COVER | A patio cover with a louvered roof that allows for airflow and ventilation. | Wood, metal, or aluminum | Excellent with some maintenance | Excellent, waterproof, rust proof, holds up against, strong wind and heavy snow | Get Free Quote | Provides shade and shelter from the sun, rain, and snow, allows for airflow and ventilation. Great for all climates. Over two decades of protection. | Can be expensive, and may require some simple maintenance. |
| PERGOLA | A patio cover with a series of arches that support a trellis or other type of covering. | Wood, metal, or concrete | Good with regular maintenance | Good (Vinyl), metal can rust, wood gets termites | Between $2,300 - $6000 ($4,200 avg) | Provides shade and shelter from the sun, and can be used to support climbing plants. | Does not provide complete shade or shelter from the rain, requires a lot of regular maintenance (clean, treat, and repainted). Watch for termites. |
| AWNING | A freestanding or attached cover that provides shade and protection from the sun. | Fabric or vinyl | Poor-Good depending on material | Poor, not waterproof, tends to mold, and loses color in the sun | Between $800-$6,000 | Provides shade and protection from the sun, and can be retracted when not in use. | Can be expensive, lots of maintenance, and not suitable for all climates. |
| SHADE SAIL | A large piece of fabric that is stretched between two or more posts to provide shade. | Fabric | Good, tends to sag | Good, not waterproof, does not mold | Between 10 sq ft and 300 sq ft: $5,300-$7,200 | Provides shade and can be used to create a more private outdoor space. | May not be suitable for all climates, and requires regular maintenance. May sag over time. |
| RETRACTABLE COVER | A cover that can be retracted when not in use. | Fabric, vinyl, or aluminum | Poor-Good depending on material | Poor, not waterproof, tends to mold, and loses color in the sun | Retractable motorized covers $1,200-$10,000 | Provides shade and shelter from the sun and rain, and can be retracted when not in use. | Can be expensive and not be suitable for all climates. |
| CANOPY TENT | A temporary cover that is typically made of fabric or vinyl and is supported by a metal frame. | Fabric or vinyl | Poor, last a couple of years depending on use and weather | Poor, not waterproof, can blow away in strong wind | Between $150 - $250 | Provides shade and shelter from the sun and rain, and is easy to set up and take down. | Not as durable or weather-resistant as other types of patio covers. Not a long-term structure. |
Ultimately, the best patio cover for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the size of your patio, the amount of shade you need, and your budget when making your decision. Give us a call if you need help finding the right patio cover for your outdoor space.