If you own a home in Austin and you’re looking to use your outdoor space more, adding a patio screen enclosure is one of the best ways to do it. These enclosures are versatile and attractive, and they’re one of the best options for homeowners on a budget.
Deciding what kind of Texas patio cover or screened patio enclosure to get is a process, however. Some of the terminology can be confusing, and there are decisions to be made about materials, price, the design, installation and so on. In this blog post we’ll walk you through the basics and answer some of the most common questions.
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The Basic Services Patio Coverings Provide
One of the things that often causes confusion among homeowners shopping for a patio cover is the basic definition of what they are, so let’s start there.
Simply put, patio covers are backyard shade covers. Normally, they’re attached to a home and held up by poles or columns, but patio covers can be made of several different types of materials, including aluminum, and there are literally hundreds of design options, even for patio coverings locals
Patio Coverings vs Patio Screen Enclosures
To some extent, the different between a patio covering and a patio screen enclosure is a matter of semantics. Some builders and contractors use the terms interchangeably, and you’ll also see them called screen rooms, home covered patios, screened enclosures, porch enclosures and so on.
The common thread between all of these names is the design. Patio coverings and enclosures are designed to make it easier and more comfortable to use your outdoor space, and they provide a variety of benefits.
Benefits of Patio Coverings in Austin
If you’re an Austin home owner, you can probably guess what the primary benefit of a patio covering is—protection from the sun and heat.
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Temperature control. While patio coverings do a great job of protecting you from the sun, they also add indoor benefits as well.
A well-designed patio covering will actually draw heat away from your home, which means you won’t have to use your air conditioning as much. And when you do go outside to use your patio space, you’ll be a lot more comfortable.
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Protection. A well-built patio covering provides several different kinds of protection. Warding off sun and heat is the primary goal, of course, but protection from pests and other weather elements like wind and rain is part of the package. They also minimize wear and tear on everything in your patio space, including furniture, ancillary awnings, etc.
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Outdoor events and accessibility. Patio coverings and screened patio enclosures make it easier to use your outdoor space, and that includes entertainment.
Whether it’s having children who use the patio space as a playroom or having guests over for a barbecue, this is a major benefit of a custom patio covering.
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Going natural. Patio coverings make it possible to enjoy the outdoors more easily, and they help you enjoy natural lighting as well.
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Home value. While patio coverings don’t necessarily add square footage to your home, they do increase its value.
Many potential buyers will see patio coverings and patio screen enclosures as an extra room they can use for relaxation, entertainment or as a play space, and those possibilities will be reflected in the final sale price.
How Shades, Curtains and Patio Coverings Enhance Your Austin Home
Now let’s talk about the design side. That includes colors, patterns and different materials, all of which add to the appeal of your patio covering.
You can also use shades and curtains as part of your design formula, too. Curtains give you another way to filter out light and heat, and shades can help you go a step further on especially warm days. You can emphasize design, comfort, or both—it really is up to you.
Patio Coverings on a Budget
One of the best parts of adding a patio covering is the cost versatility. They’re a great way to add to your outdoor space if you’re on a budget, and we can provide you with a cost guide patio, an installation cost guide and a guide patio cover to help you through the entire process.
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Patio Coverings That Add a Screen
There are several types of patio screen enclosures, so let’s review.
Under-truss screen enclosures. These are also known as lanai screens, and they’re built underneath the existing roof and within the existing footprint of the house. The screen material can consist of fiberglass, polyester, or even standard window screens.
Patio Coverings with a Screen Roof. In this configuration, the structure extends out from the home, usually with an aluminum roof, but with a screen mesh on top of the roof. The goal is to keep out bugs and debris while providing weather protection.
Screen enclosures with a solid roof. These are known as patio screen enclosures or screen rooms, and the roof is once again made of aluminum.
These roofs are made to last—they’re usually built from aluminum composite patterns, and the seals and panels are designed to prevent leaks and provide some insulation along with the usual weather protection and pest deterrence.
Using a Patio Screen Enclosure to Add Rooms
While a simple patio covering makes it easier to enjoy your outdoor patio space, there’s a subtle benefit when you go the extra mile and screen in your patio covering.
Basically, you’re adding an extra room to your house, especially during the warm weather. You may not be able to use that room in the winter, obviously, but the three-season benefits of adding a patio screen enclosure are well worth the cost.
Get the Best Patio Coverings for Your Austin Home
At Nu-View, we’ve been selling a wide variety of patio screen enclosures, patio coverings and other related products for years, so we have the experience to help you get the right product for your budget.
To find out more about all season sunrooms, you can call us at 512-918-8904. You can also contact us at support@patioaustintx.com, where you can book a custom patio consult or ask our Friendly Phone Lady any questions you might have.