How to Design a Covered Patio
A covered patio is a great idea for an outdoor living space. It can be the center of attention for barbecues, relaxing on a Sunday, and family afternoons. Covered patios reduce being exposed to elements like rain or too much sun. But at the same time you will enjoy what the outdoors have to offer. If you are thinking about designing your own covered patio, you must consider how the area will be used.
- Reach out to neighbors and friends. They are a tremendous resource and can help you figure out what will work on your patio. The yard and patios that live nearby can give you an idea of what works and what doesn’t. You can learn from their mistakes and avoid them when designing your patio.
- Look at home improvement magazines like “This Old House” and “Better Homes and Gardens.” They will help you think of new ideas and improve on ideas you have thought of.
- Think about the weather and climate in your area. You may only want your patio covered for half of the year. So you might want to consider retractable openings, partial coverings, or hurricane ties. Wherever high winds are present, hurricane ties should be seriously considered. A retractable awning or umbrella is a great option for areas where there may be seasonally harsh sun exposure.
- Select your material and floor plan. For example, you might want a raised deck that overlooks a sloping backyard. Figure out the size of the patio and how much of it you choose to cover. Material wise, a slate tile is a good choice because it can be cleaned easy with water.
- Pick what furniture you want. You may want a patio table with a fire pit, a porch swing, or a choice of comfortable seating. The furniture can help create an experience of being at a retreat or oasis. Be sure to think about different kinds of plants to complement the patio.
- Create a budget. The budget should include the materials for the patio floor, furnishings, and roof. Think about the cost for your dream patio and how much you can afford.
- Change the design based on how much you can afford. If you are able to do some work yourself to cut costs that would be a tremendous idea. You will be able to buy more expensive materials if this is the case.