The backyard patio is the ideal place on your property for entertaining and hosting a little soiree every now and then, regardless of whether it is day or night. When the weather isn’t on your side, however (meaning that it is pouring down rain or scorching hot), having an uncovered structure is going to be completely useless at offering any sort of protection. This is why patio roofing is such an important inclusion, and here are the top considerations and ideas for designing it yourself:
Metal – If you’re a person who loves the sound of rain on a tin roof, then metal patio roofing might be something that you like to consider. Whilst tin is also effective in blocking out the sun’s rays, you must also keep in mind that it can actually absorb the heat and cause the space below to heat up considerably.
Polycarbonate – Sometimes known simply as plastic (even though they are slightly different materials), this type of roofing is one of the most popular for patios. Not only is polycarbonate highly effective at blocking out both rain and ultraviolet rays, it allows natural sunlight to filter through into the space below at the same time.
Shade Cloth – Whilst this type of patio roofing is fairly ineffective at blocking out the driving rain, you will find that it is great at shielding you from the harmful rays of the sun. Often, shade cloths are used in conjunction with other types of roofing and they can be rolled up and hidden away when not in use.
Timber – Unfortunately, timber is not the greatest of materials to use as patio roofing simply because most homeowners tend to use it as open beams (similar to a pergola). When used in conjunction with other roofing materials, however (such as a shade cloth), it could be highly effective in achieving your ends.
Umbrella – Some homeowners find that an umbrella offers your patio that additional protection it really needs. Whilst this covering isn’t overly effective by itself, when it has been combined with other forms of roofing an umbrella is great at shielding the sun or even the rain from the sides of the structure that need it the most.
With all of the options for patio roofing out there, it is important to keep in mind that the above list is by no means your only option. You could find another material entirely (such as vinyl or some other type of fabric) or you could choose to combine two or three of the above options to create a look that is unique and screams your name. Designing roofing for your patio does not have to be an impossible task, you just need some imagination.
I used timber and although it looked great I regret it as it needs replacing already
I agree with you DIY’ing can be more expensive in the long run. It’s better to call the experts in roof repairs than fixing it yourself end up the damage is bigger because of repairing it you’re destroying it instead.