A patio is a comfortable outdoor space that serves as a sweet hangout spot or a stellar area to host events and parties. But sometimes, it might become uncomfortable to sit outside for too long without a proper cover. You can feel uncomfortable without shelter in different weather conditions (such as excessive sunlight, rain, snow, etc.) or just because you feel too exposed to your surroundings when you want to feel cozy!
Patio covers ensure your patio is properly covered, making the space more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Patio covers can also be an excellent ornamental addition to your outdoor space and increase your home value. Though most patio covers are relatively inexpensive, this depends on the type of patio cover you wish to shelter your patio with.
In this blog post, we’ll go over:
- The Factors You Should Consider While Choosing a Patio Cover
- How Much Do Patio Covers Cost?
Let’s get rolling.
The Factors You Should Consider While Choosing a Patio Cover
Before we get into the cost of covering your patio, it is important to know what factors you should consider before choosing an appropriate patio cover.
While choosing the right cover for your patio space, the first step is to understand what type of cover will suit your needs and aesthetics, the size of your patio and how much of it you want to be covered, and most important of all, your budget.
It is also important to note if you want something more permanent or a temporary structure.
So before fixing your budget and starting your shopping endeavor, you need to jot down what area of the patio you want to cover and align it with the type and style of the patio cover.
For instance, if you are looking at covering your entire patio area, you might choose something more sturdy and permanent, like tiling or wooden paneling. Or you might be looking at something like a retractable structure.
Keeping these points in mind, let’s move on to the types of patio covers and the most crucial component: the cost.
How Much Do Patio Covers Cost?
The cost of a patio cover can range between $8,000 and $25,000. Area-wise, it can vary between $25-$75 per square foot. This cost depends on many factors, such as the material used, the size to be covered, and the cost of labor in your region.
To understand what to expect, here is a breakdown of different patio covers and sheltered structures and what they cost on average:
- Wooden Patio Covers
- Aluminum Patio Covers
- A Retractable Awning
- A Shade Sail Canvas
- Umbrellas
Wooden Patio Covers
Wooden patio covers are always in style. Although the style of wooden patio covers varies, most of the ‘material’ used for patio covers more or less costs the same. This cover can be built as a pergola or timber patio cover.
The labor and material cost of wooden lattice patio covers are at a national average of $13,000. It is generally easy to maintain if appropriately fixed and does not require much maintenance.
Aluminum Patio Covers
Aluminum is your easiest installation option. This lightweight material has been used for ages to build premium outdoor structures. Homeowners are allured by the variety of colors available and the maintenance-free nature of aluminum. Aluminum patio covers have a natural appearance, are extremely durable, UV-ray resistant, pest resistant, and are weight-bearing.
It is also a cheaper option considering it costs an average of $8,000$- $10,000 for a 400 square feet area.
A Retractable Awning
Don’t want your patio covered all the time? A retractable awning might be the best fit. Whether you want a manually operated or a motorized awning, most awnings come in standard sizes.
However, with many waterproof fabric ranges, awnings come in various patterns and color combinations. An awning might be a quick fix for the patio cover and can be used to open up your space anytime.
A manually operated awning costs an average of $500 per piece. The installation costs aren’t included in this price.
A motorized awning starts at $3,500 and upwards. What’s more, most modern-day awnings come with an inbuilt sensor linked to your phone and an integrated lighting and heating system.
If you are looking for a cheaper and quick fix with an option to pen out your patio anytime, an awning might be the option available in the market right now. Note that they are not as durable as a sturdy-built patio cover or pergola and don’t always have lifetime warranties.
A Shade Sail Canvas
A shade sail is a triangular stretched canvas that can be fixed to different points in the roof. They are visually pleasing and give an impression of a temporary structure, not something visually blocking the space.
They offer an open yet protective covering for your patio. These shades come in varied sizes, colors, and materials. They even have special UV protective coating and waterproof ranges.
An average shade sail can cost anywhere between $20 – $200, depending on the material and size of your patio. They require additional support columns, and installation charges may vary.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas are a quick solution for smaller patio/gazebo areas. They are a cheaper portable protectant option. They can be placed anywhere and can cover any part of your patio space.
They are affordable and easy to install. On average, an umbrella can range between $50 – $900, depending on the size and material of the umbrella you choose.
Ready to Cover?
Whether you want to make a long-term investment or save money on your patio cover, remember that it should solve the purpose of covering your patio appropriately first. Choose the right style that suits your needs, and we recommend not making the budget your main focus when choosing a patio cover.
Quality is king when it comes to patio covers.
With these pointers in mind, happy shopping!
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