There’s nothing quite like outdoor living. The fresh air, the sights, and the sounds of nature always make for a calming atmosphere. But with the sun beating down on your patio, it can sometimes be difficult to enjoy yourself.
One of the best ways to make patio living a breeze is to create a cosy space with a patio cover. The best patio covers give solace from the sun, help keep the temperature in, and stay in place without the need for any building work. There are plenty of ways to decorate your patio with a great patio cover.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about patio covers, from the different types available to the features that make them great. We’ll also provide a few tips on how to choose the perfect patio cover for your home.
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Table of Contents
How to choose the Best Patio Covers for your home
There are three main types of patio covers: solid, lattice and pergola. Solid covers are the most common type and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal or plastic. They’re typically installed on top of an existing patio or deck and provide complete shelter from the elements.
Louvre patio covers are designed for sun protection. They can be made from lattice or solid panels and are great for warmer climates. Louvre patio covers are usually installed on top of an existing structure, such as a deck, patio or existing awning.
Gazebo covers are a more traditional patio cover that is normally only used for shade and shelter. They’re often large and need to be installed directly on the ground. Gazebos can be made from plastic or wood.
Awnings come in a variety of forms and materials. The most common style is the A-frame walkable awning that provides complete shade and shelter. Other styles include the extended awning, which can be zoned in two or three sections, or hinged so you can open it to allow maximum ventilation.
Lattice covers are similar to solid covers, but they have a lattice-style roof that allows sunlight and air to flow through. This makes them a good choice for warmer climates, where you still want some protection from the sun but don’t need complete shelter.
Pergola covers are the most decorative type of patio cover and are made from metal or wood. They have an open roof that allows plants to grow overhead, and they can be used to create a shaded sitting area.
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What other things need to consider?
When choosing a patio cover, it’s important to consider the climate where you live. If you live in a cold climate, a solid or lattice cover will provide the most protection from the elements. If you live in a warm climate, a pergola cover or lattice cover with a sunshade will be more comfortable.
You also need to consider your home’s architecture. If your home has a traditional or Victorian style, a pergola cover would be a good choice. If you have a modern or contemporary style, a metal or plastic solid cover would be a better option.
Other things to consider include the size of your patio or deck, the type of material you want the cover to be made from, and whether you want a permanent or temporary cover.
Check the construction quality. Make sure the cover is made from high-quality materials and is properly constructed.
Look for a cover that’s easy to install. If you’re not handy, look for a cover that’s easy to install. Some covers come with all the hardware and instructions you need, so you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself.
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What material are patio covers made from?
Wood is a popular choice for patio covers because it’s durable and can be stained or painted to match your home’s décor.
Metal is a good choice for homes with a modern or contemporary style, and it comes in a variety of colours.
Plastic is a budget-friendly option that’s easy to install but doesn’t offer as much protection from the elements as wood or metal.
Vinyl patio covers are becoming more and more popular because they offer the best of all worlds. They’re made from durable plastic that’s resistant to fading, cracking and peeling, and they can be painted any colour you want.
Aluminium patio covers are also a good choice because they’re lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
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The Best Patio Covers NZ
1. Palram Martinique Gazebo
Enjoy the sunshine in style with the Palram Martinique 4300 Gazebos. These stylish gazeboes are the perfect addition to your garden. The roof panel system consists of a 6mm Twin Wall polycarbonate roof panel system which is scratch and weather resistant. This gazebo has powder-coated aluminium and galvanized steel frame. One of the main features of this gazebo is the roof vent which allows for enhanced airflow to help keep the gazebo cool during the summer. The gazebos are 100% UV protected and are 15% light transmission. They are also easy to move and re-assemble.
2. Cantilever Patio Cover 3.0m X 5.5m
This patio cover is a stylish way to protect your patio furniture, car and extend your garden or terrace, providing a neat, seamless finish. The practical cantilever design means that it doesn’t take up much space, and the powder-coated aluminium frame is long-lasting and rust-resistant. The included gutter and downpipe protect your furniture from water and leaves. The solid, 98% UV-proof and tinted polycarbonate panels provide durable protection for your patio furniture.
3. Hardtop Patio Gazebo 3m X 3m
The Hardtop Patio Gazebo is an elegant aluminium gazebo designed for you to relax and enjoy a leisurely day out with family and friends. The classic dark grey powder coat finish creates a smart, yet rustic appearance and the 6mm grey tint twin wall 100% virgin polycarbonate panels offer the perfect balance between strength, lightness and heat insulation. The UV-stabilised panels protect the gazebo from the harshest elements and the pre-cut, pre-drilled aluminium and steel components make installation quick and easy. The footplates allow fitting to a wide variety of surfaces and the easy relocation between sites means the Hardtop Patio Gazebo is perfect for when the weather changes.
4. Louvre Roof System 4m X 4m
The Louvre Roof System is the perfect solution for adding an air of sophistication to any outdoor living space. Its versatile design allows you to create the perfect outdoor living space to suit your needs. The twin adjustable louvre banks allow you to control airflow, whilst the integrated gutter system with internal downpipes gives you the convenience of draining water off the roof. The rust-proof, powder-coated aluminium construction is designed for durability, and the sleek white finish makes the Louvre Roof System the perfect addition to your outdoor living space.
5. Freestanding Pergola W/ Retractable Canopy
This classic pergola is the perfect outdoor addition that will add a touch of luxury to your garden. The Roman-style canopy is UV-stabilised, UV rated and water-resistant for outdoor use. The powder-coated aluminium frame is durable and powder-coated for a sleek finish that will last. The pergola includes aluminium base plates, which are attached with a screw and have a beautiful finish. The canopy is also included and is made of polyurethane-coated polyester.
FAQ’s
How do I cover my patio on a budget?
There are a variety of great patio covers to choose from that don’t require any building work. One of the best ways to save money is by choosing outdoor covers made from metal or plastic. These covers are lightweight and easy to put up, plus they can be easily painted, stained or decorated. They’re more affordable than wood, metal or PVC patio cover options too.
Is a patio cover a good investment?
A patio cover could be considered a worthwhile investment, particularly if you have an outdoor area that gets a lot of use. Not only do they help you get the most out of your outdoor space, but they can also help increase the value of your home. If you decide to sell your home in the future, adding a great-looking patio cover will make it a much more attractive prospect to potential buyers.
What is the difference between a patio cover and a pergola?
A patio cover and a pergola are similar in that they both provide shade and shelter from the sun. However, a pergola is more decorative than a standard cover and often has additional features, such as draping plants or an overhead ceiling.
What is the difference between a patio cover and an awning?
An awning is similar to a patio cover, but it’s normally installed on the ground instead of on top of an existing structure. Patio covers are also similar to awnings, but they are typically slightly larger and more decorative.