Durable Patios for Harsh Winter Conditions

Patio covers are an excellent addition to any outdoor space, providing shade, comfort, and protection from the elements. Whether you’re looking to create a shaded retreat from the sun or want a more permanent structure to enjoy your backyard in any weather,  these installations can enhance your outdoor area’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, when choosing the right type of cover, homeowners often face two main options: lattice or solid covers. 

Lattice Patio Covers

These features are designed with an open structure, typically made from thin slats of wood, metal, or vinyl, and their key features and advantages include:

Filtered Sunlight

The lattice design allows dappled sunlight to pass through, making it ideal for people who want some sun exposure while still having a degree of shade. It’s also perfect for growing plants that thrive in partial sunlight.

Airflow

Because of their open design, lattice covers allow for better air circulation. This helps keep the area underneath cooler in warm weather compared to solid covers.

Aesthetic Appeal

Lattice covers offer a more decorative and lightweight look. Their intricate design adds an elegant touch to any outdoor area, making them popular for patios, garden seating areas, and pergolas.

Cost-Effective

Lattice covers tend to be more affordable than solid covers due to the reduced amount of material needed to construct them. This makes them a good option for homeowners on a budget.

Versatility

These covers can be customized in material, color, and design. You can choose to have more open spaces for greater light or tighter spacing for more shade.

However, it’s important to note that lattice covers do not provide complete protection from the rain or intense sun, which may be a drawback depending on your climate and preferences.

Solid Patio Covers

As the name suggests, solid patio covers offer complete coverage, shielding your outdoor space from sunlight, rain, and other elements. They are typically made from aluminum, wood, or insulated panels and can be attached directly to your home or stand independently. The main benefits of these installations include:

Full Shade and Weather Protection

Solid covers provide complete coverage and protection from the sun’s UV rays, rain, and even snow. This makes them an excellent choice for year-round use, allowing you to enjoy your patio in any weather.

Durability

Made from strong materials like aluminum, steel, or wood, solid features are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.

Extended Outdoor Living 

These elements allow you to expand your indoor living space. With complete protection from the elements, you can add furniture, lighting, and even electronics like outdoor TVs without worrying about weather damage.

Energy Efficiency

Solid covers can provide full shade and help reduce the heat entering your home through windows and doors, resulting in lower energy costs during hot summer months.

Customizable Options

These installations, such as lattice covers, can be customized to suit your style preferences and needs. You can choose from various materials, colors, and finishes and add features like ceiling fans or lighting for added functionality.

The downside of these covers is that they block out natural light and airflow completely, which makes the space feel darker and less airy than lattice covers.

Choosing Between Lattice And Solid Patio Covers

When deciding between a lattice or solid patio cover, you must consider your specific needs, climate, and how you plan to use your outdoor space. Some factors to help guide your decision include:

• If you live in an area with frequent rain or intense heat, a solid patio cover may be the better choice for providing full protection and creating a comfortable outdoor space. However, a lattice cover might be ideal if your climate is mild and you prefer a more open, breezy feel.

• Think about how you want to use your patio. A solid cover will provide the protection you need to create an outdoor dining area or lounge space with furniture and electronics. On the other hand, if you want a space for gardening, entertaining, or simply enjoying partial shade, a lattice cover could be more suitable.

• Lattice covers offer a more decorative, open look that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your garden or patio area. Solid covers, while more functional, may not have the same light and airy feel but provide a sleeker, more modern appearance.

• Lattice covers are typically more affordable due to the reduced materials and construction involved. However, solid covers offer long-term durability and protection, which could make them a better investment depending on your needs.

Duralum offers various patio cover options! If you are interested in learning more information, please fill out our contact form here!