We’ve got your patio covered
Spending time outside is essential to our health and well-being. Whether it’s relaxing, reading a book, hanging out with friends and family, or dining al fresco—we all want our time outside to be cool and comfortable. And where better to do all that than on your patio?
There are a range of different patio covers and styles you can choose from to keep cool and still stay flexible. We’ve put together some great patio cover ideas to keep you covered.
These terms for outdoor patio-type structures are often used interchangeably, but each has distinct features.
A patio cover is a structure or cloth that hangs over your patio and is attached to a wall. These structures are ideal for those who want shade but still enjoy the feeling of being outdoors. You can find patio covers in various materials, from wood or aluminum to vinyl or fiberglass.
A pergola consists of overhead framing made up of joists running in one direction. It may offer some shade, but because it’s just a frame, it doesn’t offer full coverage from the sun. Pergolas can be attached to a wall or built freestanding wherever you want to add shade and visual interest. Pergolas work well in backyards and gardens with climbing plants.
A gazebo is a stand-alone structure, usually with six or eight sides. Gazebos offer extended outdoor living space and are ideal for gardens or backyards where you want a fully covered spot that can house patio furniture, a bench, or whatever you like to relax on.
If you’re looking for a classic porch cover, wood is the way to go. Wood porch covers can run the gamut from rustic to modern, and you can get creative by picking any design idea that appeals to you.
If you're going for a beachy feel, a reclaimed-wood patio might be perfect—it’ll create some cover and add visual interest. Relax poolside, or use reclaimed wood to create your own backyard paradise. Reclaimed wood is both environmentally friendly and visually appealing.
If the warmer months mean outdoor dining to you, consider trying a porch cover with a ceiling fan. In humid climates or areas that don’t get as much airflow, a ceiling fan will keep you cool while you relax in your outdoor space. Plus, overhead light fixtures are ideal for nighttime get-togethers.
If you have a green thumb, a trellis patio can turn your love of gardening into a gorgeous outdoor space. Whether you plant ivy or wisteria, a trellis can turn your patio area into the perfect spot for dining al fresco. Add some paper lantern pendant lights or string lights for the ideal ambiance.
While you may not see a lot of bamboo patio covers, it’s still a viable choice to consider. Bamboo can create a stunning effect and is ideal for drier climates. It’s an incredibly strong, durable material that also creates visual interest. Enclose a small area, or turn your porch into an outdoor dining room and seating area.
Wood isn’t the only material that makes for a good shady spot. Wood isn’t the only material that makes for a good shady spot. Use materials like cloth or canvas for a versatile patio cover.
One affordable and flexible option is a vinyl patio cover. Attach one side to your home and the other to the sides of your deck or to ground poles, and enjoy hours of outdoor relaxation. These vinyl covers are easily removable, for days when you just want to soak up the sun.
Freestanding terrace umbrellas are another flexible option. Not ready to commit to a patio cover installation? Large terrace umbrellas are a great freestanding option that can easily be combined with your existing outdoor furniture.
If you’re looking to cover a small area, you can keep it simple with a stretched fabric sun shade. Installation is similar to a vinyl cover, but stretched fabric sun shades mean you can pick and choose the size of your patio cover. You can cover a small area for dining and leave the rest of your patio open for activities.
Another flexible option is a canopy patio cover. This cover is perfect for outdoor dining. If you have a large patio area, a canopy is both classy and easy to remove or upgrade. This setup is also ideal for an event, or for temporary use in a multi-use space.
Whether attached or freestanding, pergolas are a popular choice for custom-built spaces. Flexible and sturdy, pergolas offer endless options for homeowners who are looking to expand their outdoor living spaces with a range of patio design ideas.
Outdoor living is all the rage for temperate climates. Instead of traditional patio furniture, try an outdoor living room. You might find that you can truly expand your patio into an indoor-outdoor space for your personal enjoyment or outside get-togethers.
Another option for homeowners looking to spend a lot of time outdoors is this pergola patio cover with a fireplace. Instead of a separate firepit, enjoy an outdoor fireplace and the comforts of home in your own backyard.
For a pergola with an open-air feel, opt for a horizontal slat. Choose a solid ceiling or a slatted ceiling to let in a bit of light. Use horizontal slats on the side of your pergola to protect a dining area or create visual interest.
Keep your patio cool with these convertible covers.
Retractable awnings are a popular option for homeowners who want a convertible outside space. You can extend them to block the rain or strong sun and retract them to enjoy a temperate afternoon. For a flexible option, retractable awnings can be worth the cost.
For another flexible option, consider a glass skylight cover. It lets in the light while offering some shade and UV protection. Some skylight patios feature retractable shades so you can still block out the light if you're looking to relax in the shade.
If you want a more modern look and functionality, try a patio or pergola with a metal roof. The sturdy material means a longer-term solution and you can pick from a range of options including slatted or solid ceilings. You can even get a combination, with patio covers that can open and shut like blinds.
Still not striking the right balance between light and dark? Consider a custom-built sunroom to meet your specific needs. Add retractable sunshades where you need them—you can even install sliding glass doors for an open patio feel. Remember, you can style your outdoor space any way that suits you.
Looking for non-traditional tips to shade your backyard?
If you’re not ready to install a complete patio cover or you’re looking to supplement your covered patio, there is an array of covered outdoor furniture to choose from. Whether you choose a modern wicker love seat or a patio table with an umbrella, covered furniture is a great option to keep you cool this summer.
Use the natural shade in your yard as a patio cover. You can even add an umbrella for some extra sun coverage when the light shifts. Not every patio cover needs to be custom-made—you can find a solution for any budget.
Patio covers don’t need to be all or nothing. You can always use what you have and complement it with additional sources of shade. Use trees, parasols, or even the shade of your house for coverage. Save sunny spots for a firepit with comfy patio furniture.
If you enjoy feeling like you’re outdoors every day but don’t want the hassle of dealing with the changing seasons, a four-seasons patio might be for you. Popular in warmer climates, these outdoor freestanding patio covers can be designed and decorated for year-round use.
If you’re a fan of outside summer dining, an indoor-outdoor patio might be for you. These patios combine the best of both worlds. Your patio becomes a natural extension of your outdoor living space. A design idea that has grown more popular with the rise of outdoor kitchens, this chic setting is ideal for dining al fresco and relaxing afterward.
Kristin Salaky contributed to this article.
