Anybody who has a wide-open backyard wants to maximally utilize that ambient and create a cozy and welcoming place for everybody to enjoy. And there’s no better way to have a nice weekend barbecue or welcome your guest at a tranquil spot than at your patio. However, most patios are plain and open, and without an adequate cover or shade, they won’t deliver the message and feeling you want to exude. Hence, the best idea you could possibly think of is to cover your patio and for that, you need to choose top-notch and durable roofing materials. In the market, there are numerous roofing material options, and it could be rather challenging to choose the best. In order for you not to spend too much time selecting the proper roofing material, here is a detailed guide for choosing the ideal roofing solution for your patio.
Vinyl
Most homeowners tend to choose vinyl for their patio covers because it’s relatively inexpensive. One of the most fantastic features of vinyl roofing material is that you won’t need to sand or repaint it and it mimics wood as it doesn’t rot, crack, or warp. Another interesting fact is that vinyl patio covers are quick and easy to install and they are pretty easy to maintain. But, there is one small downsize, and that’s the protection from heat and sun exposure. Vinyl is not as heat resistant as, for instance, acrylic roofing material. Plus, vinyl tends to fade over time which would signalize replacing the covers every couple of years.
Aluminium
Aluminium patio covers and pergolas have been an absolute trend in recent years. Not only does aluminium represent a cosmopolitan roofing solution, but it’s an utterly lightweight, durable, and sturdy cover. More and more families opt for a louvered pergola roof as it represents a practical, cutting-edge, and durable roofing solution. There are a lot of models on the market, from exquisite opening eclipse to classical retractable pergolas, but what is definitely intriguing about aluminium roofing material is that the coves are available in many styles and colors. Not only are there many varieties for you to choose from, but you would never experience rotting, cracking, or warping, and it’s a lucrative option for quality and long-lasting heat and rain protection.
Wood
If you are looking for a fantastic aesthetic appeal, wood is the ideal option for your patio. What differentiates wood from other roofing materials available is that, depending on the type of wood, you have a perfect balance of durability and sophisticated appeal. You could choose the type of wood that suits your exterior, and if you were to go for oak, for instance, you would also choose a more long-lasting material than chestnut, and so on. With wood you have a wide range of natural textures and colors, however, you do need to pay attention to small pests and bugs. What is more, some wood patio covers are way too expensive, and in the end, you need to go through sanding and painting from time to time which can also be rather costly.
Polycarbonate
For all those people who desire to get more light than to completely cover it, polycarbonate roofing material is the perfect option. Polycarbonate allows just enough natural light to pass while at the same time blocking out the sun’s harsh rays. The best thing about polycarbonate is that is fairly lightweight and it cannot crack or break that easily. Furthermore, it’s a thermoplastic material that can withstand both extremely low and high temperatures. Most polycarbonate materials are clear and some homeowners may not be so keen on this option though.
Fabric
Fabric roofing material is a traditional non-retractable option for any pergola roof or patio cover. Fabric can protect from sunny and rainy weather but as long as you get water-resistant material. Some canvas patio cover structures add more to the overall aesthetic appeal rather than durability. Most companies are striving to improve their fabric design, and nowadays you can find various fabrics for outdoor use such as PVC coated polyester cloth or PTDE coated glass cloth which offers more protection from the sun and rain than plain fabrics. Shade sails are also increasing in popularity, but you must check whether the configurations would fit your home.
There are a few other roofing materials available on the market, but the above-mentioned ones are the most advantageous and popular. Take into account your location, weather, home, and patio design, and then choose the best roofing material for your patio.
