Home Improvement Articles, resources and tips
Patio Cover And Sun Room
The Great Outdoors can be even greater with a patio cover. Unlike enclosures, patio covers have only a roof and support beams, leaving the sides open. The roof can be closed or it can be open for views of the sky and better airflow.
The first thing to find out before constructing a patio cover is whether you will need a building permit. Most structures more than 4 feet high will need one, and some places will even require approved plans in accordance to codes. Some municipalities consider a patio cover as home addition, even though the footprint of your house isn't actually being altered. In most cases, only building an enclosed structure will be considered as adding to the house's square feet of living space.
Secondly, become familiar with the different material choices out there. Wood is certainly elegant and has a plethora of design options, but will require periodic painting and is vulnerable to termite infestations and sun deterioration. Vinyl, aluminum, composite materials (which can often achieve the look of wood) and acrylic are more durable and virtually maintenance free. Outdoor fabric is also an excellent option and can be used for a retractable cover. A lattice design with tinted glass can let in partial sunlight.
The sky (and your budget) is the limit when it comes to design. Some homeowners choose a simple, rustic look made from rough wood, while others choose a sleek glass-and-metal structure. If you are building a custom patio cover, it's best to start with a rough sketch followed with much more a detailed plan that can be reviewed by professional contractors. This way you can be sure everyone will provide reliable quotes based on the same information.
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