Are you looking for the perfect way to enjoy summer this year? If so, then you’ll obviously be looking forward to spending plenty of time outdoors, relaxing in your garden or yard.
Sitting outdoors in the summer is great. You can fire up the grill, sip a few drinks, read a book, dine al-fresco, soak up the sun, or simply try and stay cool when it’s particularly warm. If you are looking for the perfect spot to relax in the sun, a patio is ideal.
Patios are typically made from concrete, slabs, or tiles, and are great for adding patio furniture to such as tables, chairs, and even sofas. The problem is that they are open and exposed to the elements. When the weather’s perfect, that’s not an issue, but when the weather isn’t behaving, or when you’re being bombarded by bugs and insects, it’s not as great. The good news is that there is a solution, in the form of a covered patio.
But what is a covered patio, how can you achieve the perfect design, and how much does a covered patio cost? Here’s what you need to know.
Different Types of Covered Patio
Before we go any further, it’s important to understand what the different types of covered patio are.
Usually, patios are uncovered, but as we looked at earlier, this does mean that you’re exposed when you sit on them, which is not ideal in poor weather. Sometimes you need a little protection from the elements, which is where having a covered patio is ideal.
Covered patios are patio spaces that are covered with a roof, and they may also feature screens to help add an element of wind protection, and to keep those pesky bugs and insects out when you’re trying to enjoy the sunshine.
When designing a covered patio, there are two main designs to choose from. These include:
Insulated Aluminum Patios
As you can see from the name, these types of covered patio are made primarily from aluminum.
They typically feature 4 x8” tongue and groove roof panels. These types of roof panel are designed so that one edge of each panel features a deep, thin ridge. This is known in the construction industry as the ‘tongue’. The tongue fits into a slot cut alongside the adjacent panel. This is called the ‘groove’. When joined together, the panels interlock with each other and form a tight seal.
The roof panels are supported by support beams and extruded columns made from aluminum. Think of screen enclosures with stylish and hard-wearing, fully insulated aluminum roofs and you’re on the right track.
Typically, your new aluminum patio roof will be connected to the existing fascia board found on your home.
How Much Do Insulated Aluminum Patios Cost?
Providing there is an existing 4” concrete slab, if you went with a 12’ x 20’ enclosure, including the aluminum support structure, the screens, and the roof itself, you’d be looking at somewhere in the region of $12,000.00, give or take.
Other Important Info
Aluminum patio covers and screens are considered to be the cheaper, more affordable option for people looking for a covered patio while on a budget.
Because aluminum is a fairly flexible, fairly thin material, it is not as sturdy and as durable as other materials. It is designed to withstand winds of up to 75mph.
Usually, you’ll find that it requires 3 workers, and will be completed within 2 days, sometimes a touch sooner. In most areas, engineering and a permit will be required.
Conventional Covered Patios
The second option for anybody thinking of going with a covered patio, is a conventional covered patio.
They’re known as ‘conventional’ covered patios because more conventional building materials are used, I.E bricks, mortar, and wood. These are used as opposed to aluminum columns and extrudes. Instead. These support the wooden carrier beams and wooden joists, along with plywood sheathing.
As for the roof, customers can typically choose from a standard flat roof, or a tiled roof.
More conventional covered patios will appear more similar to an extension on your home. They aren’t attached to the fascia of your property like aluminum covered patios, but rather, they’re attached to your home’s structure.
How Much Do Conventional Covered Patios Cost?
So, how much does a covered patio cost?
Because conventional covered patios are far sturdier and more durable than aluminum designs, and because they use tougher, harder-wearing materials, you’ll find that this is reflected in the price. Not only that, but construction takes longer and there is therefore more labor required.
A conventional covered patio is going to cost considerably more than an aluminum covered patio. Generally speaking, a typical 12’ x 20’ conventional patio enclosure is going to cost around $25,000.00, give or take. This is based upon the assumption that there is an existing concrete base slab in place. If not, the price will be slightly more.
Other Important Info
As mentioned, there is more labor required when constructing a conventional covered patio, which is part of the reason why the price is higher than with aluminum.
Typically, a 3-person crew will be required, and construction can take up to 15 days to complete.
Conventional covered patios are a lot more durable and sturdier and are built to last. They are specially engineered to withstand gale-force winds of up to 175 mph. Meaning they will withstand even the most intense of storms.
In some areas such as Boca Raton, engineering and a permit will also be required, so it is worth bearing that in mind.
Tips for Designing the Perfect Covered Patio
Before you head off to begin work on your covered patio, we’re going to leave you with a few tips for designing the perfect covered patio. Follow these, and you’ll have your dream covered patio in no time at all:
- Get your measurements right
- Decide on the right materials
- Factor in the weather and the environment
- Try to integrate the covered patio with your home’s existing architecture
- Don’t forget privacy and security
- Always choose a trusted, reliable, qualified construction company/expert
- Ensure you obtain the necessary permits and documents
- Ensure you’re happy with the completed covered patio before you sign off the work
