Year: 2022

The choice of patio cover material is an important choice for a homeowner to make as it’s a significant investment. Each material has its benefits, potential application, cost and usable life. You should select a material based on the size of the cover you require, if the material matches your home and the climate you live in. 

In this guide, we’ll answer questions that will help you decide which type of patio cover material is best for your home, like: 

• What are insulated patio covers?
• Are insulation patio covers better than wood patio covers?
• Are insulated patio covers worth it?

What Are Insulated Patio Covers?

An insulated patio covering has a layer of insulation between its two cover panels. This layer provides resistance to the flow of heat, thus preventing heat from penetrating the patio to keep you cool and comfortable. 

Many insulated patio covers are made from aluminum, but they can also be manufactured using other materials such as wood. The insulation is usually made from sheets of foam. 

So, are insulated patio covers better than wood patio covers? Insulation covers have certain advantages over wooden variants. They’re a better fit if you want to conceal any electrical wiring. In addition, they’re safer and sturdier. However, they have their downsides, which we’ll discuss.

Are Insulated Patio Covers Better Than Wood Patio Covers?

After understanding what insulated patio covers are, some would like to know if they’re a better option compared to other plain covering materials such as wood, vinyl or aluminum. Knowing the pros and cons of each type of patio cover material will help homeowners make an informed purchasing decision.

Advantages of Insulated Patio Covers

Insulated covers for your patio provide the following benefits:

• Heat Reduction: Insulation covers are better at preventing heat from penetrating the patio. You benefit from its temperature retention properties and protection from the external environment.
• Conceal Cabling: This cover can conceal power cables for lights, fans and other electrical fixtures.
• Improves Aesthetics: Insulated covers are lightweight and easily customizable. Therefore, they can be designed to suit your taste in decor to enhance your patio’s aesthetics. 
• Boosts Value: Insulated covers and roofing for your patio can have a high-end appearance, which improves the property’s value. The finished design makes it more permanent compared to the panned sections of wooden covers, allowing it to retain its value over time.
• Better Protection From The Rain: Insulated roofs provide better rain protection since they are interlocked to prevent leaks and channel drainage away from your patio. In addition, a gutter can also be added for better drainage.
• Energy Savings: Since an insulation patio cover protects you from heat, it can help you save on energy bills during warmer months. Instead of turning the AC on, you can spend time relaxing on your patio and staying cool through the summer.
• Durability: Insulation patio covers are durable, which means they have a longer life span. In addition, these covers require very little maintenance.

Disadvantages of Insulated Patio Covers

Insulated covers have a few drawbacks, which homeowners should be aware of, especially when investing in them:

• Limited Colors: You will have to work out your patio design based on the colors provided by suppliers, as they are only manufactured in a select few.
• Higher Cost: The improved functionality and aesthetics of an insulated patio cover come at a significantly higher price. If you’re not ready to spend a substantial amount on your patio, you may have to settle for a cheaper option.

Benefits of Wooden Patio Covers

One of the common materials used to construct patio covers is wood. Many homeowners choose it for its aesthetic qualities, giving your property a more down-to-earth look. With proper care, wood can last for a long time, and it can offer some distinct advantages:

• Different Types of Wood To Choose From

Using wooden patio covers give homeowners various options for color and style, improving your patio’s aesthetics:

• Redwood and Cedar: These two are the most popular types of wood used in manufacturing wooden patio covers. Redwood has a darker red to a brown hue, while cedar wood has a yellowish brown color. Both types of wood are durable, but redwood does tend to last longer. In addition, redwood features subtle granular patterns, while cedar has a rustic-looking grain.
• Modified Wood: This is a more environmentally friendly option. It is durable, and its grain is similar to natural wood but tends to age into a silver-gray hue. Unlike other types of wood, modified wood doesn’t require pressure treatment. It’s best suited for homes in more humid locations due to its water-resistant properties.
• Pressure Treated Wood: This wood is easy to use, durable and resistant to insects and rot. However, the chemicals used to treat it may harm pets and people.
• Tropical Hardwood: This includes rosewood and mahogany wood. It is best suited for outdoor use, so they are excellent as patio covers. Some wood types in this category, such as rosewood and teak, offer some water resistance.
•  Various Sizes

Wood for insulation covers comes in different sizes. For instance, you can purchase lath lumber in 3/8 x 1.5 inch and 6 x 8 feet long variants. Batten lumber, on the other hand, is available in ¾ x 3-inch lengths. Multiple sizes give you more options for designing your patio.

Downsides of Using Wood for Your Patio Cover

Wooden patio covers are more vulnerable to damage and the elements compared to insulated covers. In addition, some types of wood are prone to rot and insect damage. They also require a lot of maintenance, even though some wood types offer resistance and durability. In addition, they have shorter usable lives, which will require you to replace them sooner.

Are Insulated Patio Covers Worth It?

Insulated patio covers are a better option regardless of your area’s climate or weather conditions. They last longer and add more value to your home. The cost is a concern, but you can consider it a valuable investment in your property.

It is best to consult with industry experts if you’re looking to install patio covers. Nortex Fence & Patio has proudly helped homeowners install durable and aesthetically appealing patio covers for over two decades. Our specialists will be more than happy to answer your questions. Call 972-382-7800 today or fill out this contact form to get a free estimate.

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Longevity of Wood Patio Covers: How Long Will Yours Last?

A great patio deserves a high-quality, long-lasting cover. Patio covers can turn your outdoor oasis into an even more comfortable one and improve your chances when you’re ready to sell your home. Patios come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and materials. One of the most popular patio materials is wood. 

Wood has been used for centuries as a building material and is often very attractive. A skilled craftsperson can manipulate wood in almost infinite ways to suit different preferences and lifestyles, as long as it meets structural specifications. As a bonus, you can install matching shingles or other roof covering materials over the exterior of your home.

In this post, we help you understand wood patio covers a bit more by discussing:

• How long do wood patio covers last?
• Pros of having a wood patio cover
• When to replace your patio cover

How long do wood patio covers last? 

If you’re considering getting patio covers, one of the questions you may have is how long do wood patio covers last. The truth is there’s no way to know precisely how long your patio covers will last, but there are several things you can do to maximize their service life. If you don’t maintain your patio covers properly and appropriately, they won’t last as long as they should.

The cost to replace a wood patio cover will depend on the size and style of the surface, as well as the type of wood. The average lifespan of a wood patio cover is 10 to 15 years, though some covers may last longer with proper care and maintenance. To extend the life of your patio cover, regularly inspect it for damage and repair or replace any damaged boards.

Pros of Having Wood Patio Cover

Wood patio covers are available in many designs to match your home’s style. The cost depends on the design and whether you want a DIY project or hire someone else for it. However, here are some pointers you might want to consider for this type of project with wooden materials:

Wood offers a broad range of benefits when constructing outdoor living spaces, depending on various lumber types and colors. Not only does wood resist damage from heavy traffic zones better than most other materials, but it also features easy replacement options for damaged pieces.

For example, should individual boards become broken or rotten over time, they are simple to remove and replace as needed. It would be much more difficult with aluminum coverings. 

Wooden patios also come in many styles (ranging from rugged to delicate), meaning there’s something for everyone. At the same time, aluminum decks are often just one solid color (even if they’re designed to look like they have different colors). 

If you want to make your patio stand out, wood gives your space a unique and classic look. Additionally, wooden structures offer an infinite amount of design possibilities available in different board shapes and finishes.

When should you replace your patio cover?

It’s hard to give a timeline on how long wood patio covers last, although you can inspect some physical features to determine their integrity. The three major factors affecting longevity are the wood’s quality, the type of finish used, and the quality and frequency of upkeep.

A high-quality wood with a durable finish can last for decades if properly cared for. However, lower-quality woods and finishes will not last as long and will require more maintenance. If you want your wood patio cover to last a long time, choose high-quality materials, and have a professional apply a durable finish.

As time passes, your patio cover will inevitably show signs of wear and tear. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to replace your patio cover: 

1. Cracks or splits in the wood 
2. Warping or sagging 
3. Mold or mildew 
4. Fading or discoloration 
5. Insect infestation

Wood Patio Cover Experts 

North Dallas Fence & Patio Construction Company is proud to offer expert service, engineering, and craftsmanship when designing a beautiful new wood patio cover for your home. 

Not sure how extended wood patio covers last? Contact our experts! We are one of the most trusted residential and commercial companies in our area specializing in fences, patio covers, arbors, pergolas, automatic driveway gates, concrete paving and stamped concrete patios. We also build outdoor projects such as decks, fencing or retaining walls.

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