6 Patio Cover Trends That Will Transform A “Blah” Backyard

As a southern California resident, you’re in the unique position of being able to comfortably enjoy your outdoor space for most of the year. The outdoor experience begins the minute you cross the threshold. So, how’s your patio looking these days? Is it an inviting space you can’t wait to spend time in? Or is it an afterthought you’re not really sure what to do with?

Here are six transformational patio cover trends to give you some ideas about where to get started.

Trend #1: Minimalism

Modern, clean lines spruce up a back patio and match most home styles. The minimalist look creates the flexibility to add accents that match your own aesthetic, without committing to a distinct style that locks you into a décor scheme. Getting the ultimate clean lines on your patio cover requires carefully hiding the hardware. Counter-sinking screws, using dowels as connectors, and adding trim to cover seam joist variations creates a sleek cover that crisply frames your outdoor space. 

Trend #2: Wood & metal

Call it “farm house” or “rustic,” manufacturers are designing hardware that is meant to be shown. Painted, stained and sealed lumber look fantastic against ornamental hardware designed for exposure to the elements. Outdoor Accents from Simpson Strong Tie and Ozco both manufacture attractive outdoor hardware that is as tough as it is beautiful. Ozco hardware is a slightly thicker gauge and is also adjustable, so it’s a great option if you’re using rough lumber. On the other hand, Simpson Strong-Tie is spec’ed out in nearly every municipal code book, so contractors and inspectors are all already familiar with the product line.

Pro tip: if you’re going for the exposed-hardware look, be sure to use anti-corrosive materials designed for this purpose. Hardware without anti-corrosive features is likely to rust oxidize over time, leaving unsightly stains on your beautiful patio lumber.

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Trend #3: Colorful canvas

Light, airy, and reminiscent of a ship’s sail, canvas-like shades are a versatile, modern approach to a sprucing up your patio. Shade cover material is available in three thicknesses. The thicker the material, the more waterproof it is. Because of all the available color and style options, retractable shade covers add a decorative pop of color or pattern to your backyard and patio cover. Covers are usually manufactured from a strong vinyl or canvas, so they can stand up to weather, but are still flexible enough to adjust easily. Shades are attached to the patio structure’s cross beams via cable, enabling you to open or close them to let in full or partial sun.

Trend #4: Illumination

Bistro lights turn any boring patio into an instantly inviting outdoor nook you’ll never want to leave. Lay out your lights in a standard bistro or carnival-style string, gather them together like a chandelier, or space them evenly and string them vertically to create a floating “wall” of light. Because individual strings of bulbs connect together end-to-end, they can usually reach outdoor outlets, so you don’t need to worry about built-in electrical boxes or damaging exterior walls to install wiring. Outdoor string lights are also weatherproof, so you won’t have to haul your lights indoors the minute the sky turns gray. FEIT manufactures both colored and white lights—both on a dimmer with a remote—so you have maximum control over your outdoor lighting ambiance.

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Trend #5: Plants & vines

Bring your patio cover to life by creating shade with flowering vines or other plants. Attach tiered succulents to frame posts or create a “living” painting at one end of your patio structure. Because they face constant exposure to the southern California sun, your best bet is to select hearty native plants that don’t require excessive water. Large pots make fantastic decorative planters for vines, especially if your patio is set on a cement foundation with little or no exposed ground nearby.

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Trend #6: Aluminum versatility

This one is less of an aesthetic trend and more of a materials trend but remember, your patio cover doesn’t have to be constructed from lumber in order to look good and last awhile. Aluminum patio covers are low maintenance and feature an important advantage over wood: they stand up to sun and salt air without degradation better than other materials. Contractors also love aluminum patio covers because they are lightweight, so they’re easier to install than lumber. With many colors and styles available, an aluminum patio cover can create a look that is as unique as any wooden cover but is ultimately more durable.

A decorative patio cover sets the tone for your backyard. Don’t be afraid to switch things up a little. No matter which materials, design or accessories option you choose, a covered patio extends your home’s livable space and provides a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the benefits of Southern California living.

If you’ve got ideas for a new patio cover, but aren’t sure where to start, our lumber experts are here for you. Bring some inspiration images down to your nearest J&W Lumber location and let’s get started.