There are many reasons to install a patio cover. Some have to do with comfort, some with privacy, others with visual appeal. They all add up to one thing: higher value.
It’s important to remember that although a patio cover will add to your home’s financial value, the most valuable reasons have more to do with lifestyle improvements. Actual added financial value will depend on quality. Where you live may require you to get a patio cover that, like Renaissance Patio Products, can handle any potential snow load and maximum wind speeds.
Here are some of the biggest advantages of a covered patio:
Shade. How much shade a patio cover casts depends on the design and materials. Solid patio roofing provides the most shade. A gazebo or pergola, which has an overhead weave of aluminum framing, casts partial shade—40 percent, more or less. A translucent patio roof keeps the patio bright but filters out some sunlight and UV rays.
Heat reduction. Shade alone will reduce heat, but a roof without insulation will allow heat to radiate through. Insist on an insulated roof to prevent heat from penetrating. Good examples are the Renaissance Patio Products Moderno and Classico patio roofs.
Shelter from rain. Nothing destroys a well-planned event more completely than unplanned-for rain—even a 30-minute shower at the wrong time. A patio roof, whether a basic pan roof, insulated patio roofing or a translucent patio roof, will shed rain. That means you, your kids or a live-in parent can get fresh air even on less-than-ideal days. And really, does anything calm better than the lullaby of rain on the roof?
More living space. If you’re in a warm climate, a patio roof turns what otherwise would be a simple concrete slab into an additional, 4-season outdoor room. In moderate climates, a patio cover affords 3-season and 4-season comfort with a patio heater. Even in climates where all the seasons are evident, 3-season use is possible. Optional screening makes a cover patio even more usable.
Entertainment space. If you like to entertain—extended family, friends, neighbors, co-workers—a covered patio gives you extra space for extra guests. That’s especially true if you allow guests to wander in and out of the house and onto the patio.
Personal retreat. Need a place to relax and unwind after work? All it takes on your covered patio is a comfortable chair or chaise, maybe a little music, and a good book or magazine.
Family gathering spot. The kitchen is the natural family spot: It’s where the fridge, microwave and toaster oven supply drinks or snacks. Your patio typically is an extension of the kitchen—an outdoor spot where everybody enjoys those treats. It’s also a good place for doing homework, with laptops, WiFi and wireless printers making even computer use possible. And if your kids are in the pool or kicking a soccer ball, you can keep an eye on them in comfort.
Privacy. Even with a roof, you’ll still be seen on your patio because, more than likely, you’ll have no side walls. The roof alone does reduce some exposure to prying eyes. A few well-placed planters are all you need for additional seclusion.
Better resale. A quality patio roof will add value to your home, although, to be honest, it isn’t likely to repay you dollar for dollar. A patio cover may reduce your time to sale because more potential buyers are likely to want a house with a patio cover than without one. Why? They know they’ll benefit from all the other reasons you’ve read here.
