Patio Covers

Why Build a Patio Cover?

The biggest benefit of a patio cover is simple.

Shade.

North Texas summers can make an uncovered patio uncomfortable during much of the day.

A solid patio cover helps reduce direct sunlight and creates a more comfortable outdoor area.

It can also provide a defined space for:

• Patio furniture

• Dining tables

• Outdoor kitchens

• Grills and smokers

• Televisions

• Family gatherings

• Poolside seating

Attached vs. Freestanding Patio Covers

Patio covers can be designed in different ways depending on the property.

An attached patio cover connects directly to the home.

This can create a smoother transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

A freestanding structure may make more sense when the desired seating or entertainment area is located farther into the yard.

Both options can work.

The right choice depends on:

• Backyard layout

• Existing patio location

• Roofline

• Sun exposure

• How the space will be used

Patio Covers and Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are one of the most common features homeowners combine with patio covers.

A covered cooking area can create space for:

• Built-in grills

• Smokers

• Counters

• Storage

• Refrigeration

• Dining

• Serving areas

Planning the patio cover and outdoor kitchen together can help create a better layout.

The structure can be designed around the cooking area instead of trying to fit a kitchen underneath an existing roof later.

Patio Covers for Pool Areas

A patio cover can also provide useful shade near a pool.

A covered poolside space can create room for:

• Lounge furniture

• Dining

• Towels

• Drinks

• Shade between swims

• Conversation areas

Instead of having the entire pool area exposed to direct sunlight, homeowners can create a comfortable shaded section nearby.

Choosing the Right Size

A patio cover does not need to cover the entire backyard.

The best size depends on how much space you actually use.

A smaller cover may be perfect for:

• A table

• A seating group

• A grill area

A larger structure may be more appropriate for:

• Outdoor kitchens

• Entertainment areas

• Large family gatherings

• Multiple seating zones

The goal should be useful coverage rather than simply building the largest structure possible.

A Patio Cover Should Match the Home

A patio cover is a major visual feature.

That means the design should work with the architecture of the house.

Important details include:

• Roofline

• Pitch

• Posts

• Beams

• Wood finish

• Height

• Connection to the home

Extreme Wood Care builds patio covers using western red cedar and Douglas fir products and pre-stains its wood with two color options.

Pergola or Patio Cover?

Some homeowners are not sure whether they need a pergola or a patio cover.

A pergola provides partial shade.

A patio cover provides more complete overhead protection.

Choose a patio cover when:

• Full shade is important

• You want better protection from weather

• You plan to install an outdoor kitchen

• You want a television outside

• You want the space to feel more like an outdoor room

Choose a pergola when:

• You want partial shade

• You want a lighter structure

• You want more sunlight

• You prefer an open design

Build the Backyard as One Connected Space

A patio cover can be the starting point for a larger outdoor living project.

A complete backyard may also include:

• Outdoor kitchens

• Pergolas

• Arbors

• Gazebos

• Fireplaces

• Stamped concrete

• Flagstone

• Turf

Planning these features together can create a more natural flow through the backyard.

Patio Cover Maintenance

Wood patio covers should be maintained over time.

Basic care can include:

• Cleaning

• Removing leaves and debris

• Checking the stain

• Watching for worn areas

• Restaining when needed

Extreme Wood Care also provides restoration and staining services for existing wood structures.

Start Planning Your Patio Cover

A custom patio cover can make a backyard easier to use throughout the year.

Whether you want a simple shaded seating area or a complete covered entertainment space, the right design can add function and comfort to your property.

Contact Extreme Wood Care & Outdoor Living today to request a free estimate for a custom patio cover in North Texas.