A well-designed patio, pergola or veranda, can elevate your outdoor living experience, providing shade, style, and year-round usability. Whether you're creating a cozy retreat, a dining area, or a space to entertain guests, the right patio cover can make all the difference.
1, Determine Your Patio's Purpose
A patio or veranda provides a functional and stylish outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment, and activities like dining, socializing, or enjoying nature. It enhances a property’s aesthetics, offers an alfresco area for various uses, and increases the home's value while promoting a connection with the outdoors.
2, Do you need more sun or more shade?
Do you prefer basking in the sun or relax in the shade? Chances are, you’d enjoy a mix of both. When designing your patio, it's essential to think about sun and shade to make the most of your outdoor space. We recommend incorporating shady areas for outdoor dining and lounging to ensure a comfortable and versatile environment.
At Excelite Plastic, we offer three distinct shade options for your patio cover and veranda, catering to different levels of light and heat preferences:
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Maximum Sunshine
For those who love abundant sunlight, our clear glass-like polycarbonate sheet is an ideal choice. It provides an impressive 90% light transmission, comparable to glass, while allowing 80% of the heat to pass through. -
Balanced Light and Heat
Our tinted grey polycarbonate sheet offers a perfect balance. It transmits 50% of visible light, blocks 50% of heat, and maintains a sleek, glass-like appearance. This is the best choice for a patio cover that blends functionality with aesthetics. -
Optimal Heat Protection
If your patio faces intense sunlight and heat is a major concern, the Gallina Arco 684 Multiwall Translucent Roof System is your top option. With its advanced IR coating, it allows 30% visible light transmission while blocking 80% of the sun’s heat, delivering superior comfort and energy efficiency.
3, Do I need waterproofing my awning, patio and veranda?
When you have an awning or veranda roof, it’s common to place furniture or a BBQ underneath, making waterproofing a priority. To ensure year-round protection from rain and hail, a 100% waterproof patio cover is essential, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space worry-free in any weather.
The Excelite Gasket-Free Standing Seam Roof System guarantees watertight installations, designed for wide spans and increased load capacity. It offers fast and safe installation and is UV-rated to protect your outdoor elements all year round.
Compared to louvered pergolas or foldable awnings, polycarbonate pergola covers provide superior rain protection. Unfortunately, no louvered roof system on the market, including those from Louvre Shade, is 100% waterproof.
1. Classic Pergolas
Pergolas are a timeless choice for patio covers. Featuring a frame of vertical posts and horizontal beams, they offer partial shade while maintaining an open feel. To enhance their functionality and aesthetics, you can:
- Add climbing plants like wisteria or ivy for a natural canopy.
- Install retractable fabric shades for adjustable coverage.
- Incorporate LED string lights for evening ambiance.
2. Polycarbonate Roof Panels
For a modern, durable, and lightweight option, consider polycarbonate roof panels. These translucent covers provide excellent weather resistance, UV protection, and natural light diffusion. They’re perfect for homeowners who want:
- A sleek, contemporary look.
- Protection from rain and harmful UV rays.
- Low-maintenance, long-lasting materials.
3. Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings offer versatility, allowing you to adjust the shade according to the time of day or weather. Available in various colors and patterns, they can complement your home’s design while providing:
- Quick and convenient shade.
- Protection for outdoor furniture from sun damage.
- An unobstructed view when retracted.
4. Wooden Lattices
Wooden lattices are ideal for adding rustic charm to your patio. While they provide partial shade, they also create a cozy, intimate vibe. Customize your lattice with:
- Staining or painting to match your home’s exterior.
- Integrated planters for a lush, green look.
- Hanging lights or lanterns for a magical nighttime effect.
5. Sail Shades
Sail shades are a trendy, affordable, and easy-to-install solution for patio covers. These tensioned fabric panels come in various shapes and colors, allowing you to create a unique, artistic statement. Benefits include:
- Excellent UV protection.
- A minimalist, modern aesthetic.
- Easy removal or repositioning as needed.
6. Glass Roof Covers
For a luxurious and elegant option, glass roof covers provide an unobstructed view of the sky while offering protection from rain. Consider tempered or tinted glass for enhanced safety and energy efficiency. Glass roof covers are great for:
- A sophisticated look.
- Creating a bright, airy atmosphere.
- Pairing with curtains or blinds for adjustable shade.
7. Metal Roof Panels
Metal roofs are durable, weather-resistant, and ideal for homeowners seeking a sleek, industrial design. Available in various colors and finishes, they can:
- Protect your patio from harsh weather conditions.
- Reduce noise with insulated panels.
- Be paired with wooden beams for a striking contrast.
8. Natural Canopies
If you love greenery, why not let nature do the work? Plant fast-growing trees or vines to create a lush, organic canopy over your patio. Options include:
- Grape vines for a Mediterranean vibe.
- Bamboo for a tropical touch.
- Shade trees like maple or oak for broad coverage.
9. Fabric Canopies
Fabric canopies offer a soft, inviting feel and are perfect for temporary or seasonal patio covers. They can be:
- Draped over a pergola for added shade.
- Mounted on poles for a tent-like effect.
- Made with waterproof fabric to withstand light rain.
10. Hybrid Designs
Why settle for one option when you can mix and match? Combine materials and styles to create a unique, multifunctional patio cover. For instance:
- Pair a pergola with polycarbonate panels for partial shade and rain protection.
- Use a lattice with retractable fabric for adjustable coverage.
- Blend metal and wood for a modern yet natural look.
