California is built for outdoor living.
It's time we take advantage of lower building costs and use patio covers in our backyards!
First it's important to know the different types of patio covers.
10 Types (at least)
Awning - no legs
Pergola - open air, maybe no floor
Gazebo - covered roof & floor
Retractable Cover - $700 manual – $2500 motorized
Cable Shades - canvas cable canopies - https://www.infinitycanopy.com
Umbrellas - wheels, tilt, offset stand, solar LED lights, misters, fans
Sun Room
California Room
Movable louvers
Trees - evaporation, updraft, shade
Shade is an important job of patio covers! Make sure it'll do its job - Do a shade study. Solar angle in So Cal is 80º in June and 32º in December. That's why it's important to make sure your patio cover does a proper job of shade.
Questions to ask yourself.
How does it interact with the prevailing winds
How does it effect light in the house?
Does it obscure the view? - from downstairs and upstairs
Where and how do you mount it?
There are also a lot of accessories you can add to your patio covers.
It can be lighting, fans, misters, heaters, or tvs.
For more information, please listen below: