When it comes to updating, upgrading, and improving your home, every addition can serve 2 functions. The right addition can make your life easier and more pleasurable, and it can improve your home’s value as well. One upgrade that will make your home more beautiful and valuable is a patio cover. If you are lucky enough to own a home with a patio, making the most of the space is a must. Whether you wish to sell your home or stay there for decades to come, investing in the right patio cover for your Austin, TX, home requires work and careful planning. Want to know how to pick the right cover for your needs? Here are a few things you should know.
Size and Shape
How large is your deck or patio? The size of your deck will have a significant impact on what type of cover you pick. If you are looking to invest in a cover, consider how much of your patio you use consistently. For example, if you have a patio that wraps around the entire back side of your home, covering every square foot might be prohibitively expensive. If you barbecue, relax, or recreate on the section nearest the stairs or your back door, you could install a smaller cover that fits that area alone. And with the variety of styles available, a segmented cover will not look out of place if done properly.
Function and View
Why do you want a patio cover? If you are looking at increasing your home’s value and appeal, there are many decorative styles you can pick from. Ornate patio covers in Austin can complement your home’s appearance and add significant monetary value. From tall columns and pillars to carefully carved wooden beams and slats, patio cover designs are only limited by your imagination and budget.
If you are looking for a functional cover, you need to consider whether you want a fully enclosed cover or one that has a lattice roof or partially open top. There are benefits and downsides to each option. A fully covered option will keep the weather from ruining your plans. Even in the worst weather you will have a place to read, relax, and even barbecue. On the other hand, a lattice-style patio cover will provide you with an unobstructed view of the sky and area around you. But as you can imagine, you won’t be able to spend much time on your patio if it is raining or snowing.
Care and Repairs
If you wish to invest in a cover for your patio, pay attention to the materials you use. Wooden covers might need to be stained or repainted every few years (depending on the weather and environment you live in). Vinyl or plastic covers will be able to withstand just about anything Mother Nature can throw their way, but they are slightly easier to damage. Stone, metal, or plaster covers will likely cost you more than any other option and will have specific maintenance requirements all their own. If you don’t know what type of maintenance will be required, your best bet is to contact your favorite deck and patio company. They will be able to explain everything there is to know about a variety of covers.
What You Want
If you are interested in installing a cover over you patio, it’s important to take a bit of time and figure out what you really want. Covers are a big investment and can dramatically increase the value of your Austin, TX, home. But with a little planning and research, you will find the exact cover to meet your needs.
