Patio covers can be a bit of a splurge, but they offer a wide range of benefits that make them worth the investment. Aside from keeping your furniture, plants and other outdoor features safe from rain (or even the occasional deluge), they provide shade that keeps your home cooler and can help to keep energy costs down. They also offer a blank slate for a host of lighting options, like chandeliers, lanterns, string lights and more—all things you might not be able to do without a roof overhead.
One of the most popular types of patio covers are awnings, which can either be fixed or retractable. Fixed awnings, as shown in this backyard from Higgins Architects, are attached to the side of your house and typically have a solid roof, while retractable awnings allow you to open or close them at will, much like a window shade. They come in many materials, including aluminum slats and acrylic, so you can find the look that best suits your backyard.
Another option for covering your patio is a pergola, which is similar to a covered porch but features a more decorative wooden structure. This back yard by Studio DIY features a simple pergola and a fresh coat of white paint, which helps to keep the sunlight off the seating area and creates an airy ambiance that’s ideal for relaxing in the backyard.
For those looking for a more mechanized option, there are plenty of motorized awnings on the market, as this one from German brand Markilux demonstrates. With a sleek wood design that ties in with the surrounding trees and landscape, it’s a great choice for those who want to be able to control their awning at will.
You can also create a more secluded retreat with a high, transparent patio cover, like this one from in3interieur. The clear material allows you to see the sky and surroundings, but it blocks out a significant amount of sunlight—making it perfect for those who need to escape the sun for an afternoon or two but don’t want to go completely undercover.
Adding a patio cover to your backyard can also give you the opportunity to add some pretty epic outdoor furnishings, like this built-in daybed from Reath Designs. The soft chocolate brown cushions paired with the dark brown decking and bright orange citrus tree feel ultra-relaxing, while the covered space offers plenty of shade for a nap or a cup of coffee.
Aside from offering protection from the elements, patio covers can keep your outdoor furniture and other items clean and free from mildew. That means your furniture will be ready to use sooner after a rainstorm, and you won’t have to wait around for the pieces to dry in the sun. They’re also great for protecting against the damaging effects of UV rays, which can cause discoloration and damage to your wood or metal furniture.
