A pergola is used to cover an area like a walkway or backyard to provide shade for an outdoor area that you will want to spend time in. A patio cover is an attached structure that creates shade on a patio that may be completely shaded or part shade. Pergola and patio cover are words used interchangeably.

Patio covers offer many added benefits from a shield from outdoor elements like heat and rain. A patio adds space to your home to enjoy with your family and friends outside even when the weather acts up. The added comfort and pleasure a patio enclosure brings is endless.

When it comes to picking the material of a patio, most homeowners want an Aluminum Patio Cover. This type of material for your patio cover offers superior value because it is lightweight, durable, and maintenance-free. Those three factors make this an invaluable purchase. In addition, aluminum patio covers are powder coated to increase durability and come with a built-in drainage system to protect your property. They will almost always come with a warranty. You can buy them with a lattice or solid roof.

When you consider buying an aluminum patio cover, you always want to know the cost involved. The cost varies on the size of the patio cover needed, location, labor, and whether a contractor installs the patio for you. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $5,500 to $10,000 for your patio cover, not including labor for 20×20 feet.

Some additional costs to consider can be adding any furniture, barbecue, outdoor heater, and any other accessory to be added as part of the patio contract. Of course, the cost of these greatly varies from a couple hundred to several thousand. You may consider adding a screened in porch to this look for an additional $3,000 to $5,000.

If you want to reduce your cost, you may consider choosing a different material. Different materials may involve more maintenance costs and a shorter lifetime of enjoyment.
If you choose a different material like a wood lattice, the cost will be less anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 depending on how lavish you want your patio.

Homeowners should figure out exactly how they want their patio to look and what type of material they want before taking on a contractor. Once they know this, it is recommended to get several estimates to include project, labor, prep, and clean-up work. You will then be able to pick a company soundly based on your needs and wants. Also, ask about the contractor’s experience and how long they have installed patio covers before you go with the guy offering the lowest price. Lowest priced ticket items can be low due to lack of experience or poor customer reviews.