Everyone Loves A Back Porch, But Oh That Sun! You love your home and even your yard. It is fun to be out on the porch, cooking out, or sipping lemonade. However, sometimes the sun is so hot, you have to seek cover indoors. Rain hampers your day as well. This all defeats the purpose of having an outdoor living space. You need a patio cover or porch roof, so you can be outdoors all the time.

There are all sorts of ideas for patio covers. Some people prefer an open roof, somewhat like a trellis, that is slanted to provide some light in, but others want total coverage. One of the main benefits to a patio cover is protection from the elements, however, it also saves furniture, carpet, and paintings from sun damage. Your utility bills will be lower in the Summer as well.

There are things to consider when adding a patio cover. There may be local zoning permits you will have to get before construction. The other is, attaching the structure to your existing home. There is a lot to the pitch, and securing it properly so as to not damage your home. It is always better to have a patio cover installation expert come out and do the work for you. They can help you draw out a specific plan that will enhance your home and yard.

Remember a patio is an extension to your home. It should be a welcoming exterior living space. You will find if you make it inviting, you may well be out there more than inside. What is wrong with getting fresh air most of the year? You can make it extravagant, or keep it simple. You are adding the roof, why not go all the way?

While you may want to do the patio cover installation yourself, it may be a better idea to call a professional. Who really has the time to draw out the plans, get all the materials needed, permits, and then build it? IT is much better to have someone else do all that work. You can go out and shop for all the furniture for it. This is especially true if you want ceiling fans installed, and or an outdoor kitchen.

Adding a patio cover adds so much more value to your home. Not necessarily increasing the price, just the saleable value. When you are ready to sell your home, people are more interested in homes that already have these types of things done, so they don’t have to. You get to enjoy your home as well until you are ready to sell if you ever do. Having a patio just makes you happy.

Now that you have decided you want a patio cover, you will have to do some research. Ask around with your neighbors, family, friends, and even co-workers to see who they may have used, or can recommend. Next, you will want to go online and see if they have a website. It is always better to use this type of company rather than a “fly by night” laborer. The website should have pictures of previous jobs, as well as references, and reviews from clients.

It is a good idea to pick a company that specializes in outdoor projects rather than home construction. This means they really take pride in what they do and will offer suggestions best for your home. Some home construction companies don’t like to “waste” their time on small projects, so find an outdoor construction firm and start enjoying your outdoors!

Paul Petersen