Summer is the time we like to enjoy the outdoors. This is also the time when most people start thinking of how they can improve their outdoor living area. You want your outdoor living space to provide shade and cover during summer rain showers, but you also want your patio furniture to be protected from the elements.
When choosing covers for both your patio and for your patio furniture, there are certain things you have to consider. Not the least of these is how much time you'll be spending on your patio. For the patio cover, the more time you're spending on the patio, the more you'll probably spend on the cover. For your patio furniture covers, the less time you spend on the patio, the more elaborate you're going to want your covers to be.
There are basically two types of patio covers to consider. There are permanent structures such as pergolas, arbors and gazebos or you can choose from a removable patio cover which includes retractable awnings, umbrellas and fabric canopies. Permanent patio covers are usually more costly and more time-consuming to construct. However, they can significantly enhance your patio or other outdoor area.
When you add a patio cover to your home you're not only providing shade and protection from rain and bad weather. You are also adding a new feature to your landscaping and adding to your home's appeal. If you are looking for something to build that will endure the elements, a permanent patio cover using wood has many benefits and adds value to your home.
You will also want to consider whether or not you will want to enclose your patio with either simple drop panels or screens. Another thing to take into consideration is whether you want to install electric lighting and power for any accessory you might like to operate. Wood patio covers are more expensive and take more time to build, but it is well worth it when you see the final finished project.
Metal patio covers are also popular; they require less maintenance than a wood patio cover. They usually have a finish to prevent rusting. The disadvantage of a metal patio cover is that it can be damaged in high winds or storms and is not retractable.
Pergolas and arbors are more for decoration than for protection against the elements such as; rain and wind. They will provide shade. They are a beautiful addition to your home and landscape. You can build a pergola or arbor to the design and style of your home. They also increase the value of your property.
A great alternative to permanent patio covers are canopy awning and retractable awnings. Retractable patio covers are easy to roll up and out of your way when not in use. You can keep these types of covers rolled up and protected when it storms and can be extended when you want some shade. There is a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from that will fit into your décor nicely. As you can tell there are many types of patio covers to choose from and there is a style to fit anyone's needs.
For your patio furniture covers you'll need to consider the weather of your area - do you get mostly rain, pounding sun in the summer months, or deep winters with feet of snow? The weather you have to deal with, and how much of it you get, will help determine the best patio furniture cover for you. Also, keep in mind that you can get covers for individual pieces of furniture, or combination covers that can protect a table and several chairs. However, if you have too many chairs you'll still need to get separate covers for them.
Whether it's a cover to protect your patio as a whole or covers for your furniture, protecting your patio area is important both during the warmer summer months when you're using it and during the colder, wetter months when the elements prevent you from taking advantage of it. Getting yourself a quality cover will ensure that your patio and its furniture will be usable for years to come.
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