Patio covers instantly perk up the backyard, providing much-needed shade during the summer months and an inviting appeal to enjoy year-round. However, when it comes to choosing the building material, how do you know if an aluminum or wood patio cover is the best option?
We’ve broken down the main differences between the two, as well as the benefits to each so you can make an informed decision once you’re ready to add on to your home. Ultimately, like with all home projects, it comes down to the purpose, personal style, and budget of your renovation.
Aluminum Patio Cover Options
Aluminum is a solid choice for patio covers due to its low-maintenance appeal. There are three standard options to choose from, ranging in costs and customization.
Duralum
Duralam is used for traditional aluminum patio covers, offering a standard-looking style with a few preset colors that’s easy to maintain. It’s most commonly used in rural settings and can be prone to dent in high traffic areas due to its thinner gauge. Therefore, when a home is a hotbed of activity, it’s favorable to go with a thicker aluminum option like CabanaX or Sundance.
CabanaX
This aluminum patio cover option comes in one 10’ x 10’ size with motorized louvers and several configurations. An adjustable louvers system is one of the biggest benefits since it allows the cover to close completely, protecting the patio from the rain and other elements, while also being able to transition to an open-style pergola to let in the sunshine.
Sundance
As the most high-end of aluminum patio covers, Sundance has a thicker gauge so it won’t dent as easily as Duralam. Like the CabanaX, it also comes with the coveted motorized louvers system and offers a sleek and modern look. This premium selection seamlessly fits the luxury style found in many coastal backyards.
Wood Patio Cover Options
As an alternative to aluminum, wood patio covers are the preferred material for many. There are far greater options and more customization and styles to choose from when it comes to working with wood. There are primarily three species to choose from, including Redwood, Western Red Cedar, and Douglas Fir. If the plan is to stain the wood and preserve the beautiful wood grain, Redwood or Western Red Cedar is your best option. Whereas, Douglas Fir is your best bet when painting the patio cover.
In terms of style, wood patio covers can be installed attached to the home and serve as an extension of the house or be built as a completely separate structure. If you plan to attach your cover, it’s best to hire a contractor to attach the part that links to the house to avoid any potential defects which may allow water to seep in. Otherwise, homeowners shouldn’t be afraid to take on building a patio cover as a DIY project.
The wood patio cover can be pitched or flat roofed with open lattice on top or a solid roof with slatted or tongue and groove boards. It all depends on the aesthetic you want to achieve. There are also different hardware options to choose from to complement the design. One approach is to hide as much hardware as possible for a clean, streamlined look. Or, you can highlight black-painted (or other ornamental) hardware that is instrumental to the finished product.
At J&W Lumber, we offer all aluminum shade structures and can gather all necessary materials and tools to create a customized kit for your ideal wood patio cover.
Stop by your local store and speak to one of our helpful and friendly specialists today.