From Salt Lake to St. George: Your Ultimate Guide to Utah Patio Covers

Why Utah Homeowners Are Investing in Patio Covers

Patio covers in Utah are more than just a backyard upgrade—they’re a practical solution for year-round outdoor living in a state known for its intense summer sun, heavy winter snowfall, and unpredictable weather. Whether you’re in Salt Lake City, Ogden, or St. George, a quality patio cover extends your living space and protects your family from the elements.

Top Utah Patio Cover Providers:

• Awnings Unlimited – Serving Northern Utah since 1976 | Alumawood materials | Limited lifetime warranty

Utah’s unique climate demands durable outdoor structures. The intense sun at high elevations can increase heat gain by up to 77% through unshaded windows, while winter snow loads require properly engineered covers that meet local building codes. “We spend most of our time here now that we have this patio,” one Utah homeowner shared after installation—a common sentiment among those who’ve finded the value of a well-designed patio cover.

At Awnings Unlimited, we’ve been creating shade for customers throughout Northern Utah since 1976, specializing in durable patio covers in Utah built with industry-leading Alumawood materials designed to withstand the Beehive State’s harsh weather. Our team serves the entire region from Salt Lake City to surrounding communities, backed by a limited lifetime warranty on materials and a 5-year warranty on labor.

Why a Patio Cover is a Smart Investment for Your Utah Home

Investing in a patio cover for your Utah home is a decision that pays dividends in comfort, value, and practicality. We often hear from our customers how much a new patio cover has transformed their outdoor space, allowing them to truly enjoy Utah’s beautiful, albeit extreme, seasons. From hosting barbecues year-round to simply relaxing with a book, a patio cover open ups the full potential of your home’s exterior.

Boost Your Home’s Value and Livable Square Footage

One of the most compelling reasons to install a patio cover is the significant value it adds to your home. Think of it as expanding your living space without the hefty cost and disruption of a traditional home addition. A well-designed patio cover effectively creates an outdoor room, offering a versatile area for dining, entertaining, or simply unwinding. This seamless indoor-outdoor flow is incredibly appealing to potential buyers and improves your daily life. It significantly boosts curb appeal, making your home stand out.

With a patio cover, you can plan parties and gatherings without concern for the weather, truly embracing the outdoor Utah lifestyle. It transforms an underused concrete slab into a functional, inviting space. We’ve seen countless homeowners tell us that their patio became their favorite “room” in the house after installing one of our custom covers.

Save on Energy Costs

Utah’s intense summer sun can make your home’s interior feel like an oven, driving up air conditioning bills. This is where a patio cover truly shines as an energy-efficient solution. By strategically shading windows and glass doors, a patio cover dramatically reduces solar heat gain inside your home.

According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, in a typical Northern Utah building, more energy is lost through glass doors and windows than through any other constructed element. While window films can help, awning canopies (which include patio covers) accomplish the same purpose along with substantially boosting energy savings. Studies show that a properly installed awning can reduce sun-related heat gain by up to 77% in Utah homes, particularly on western exposures where the sun is most intense. Fabric awnings, for example, can reduce heat gain by 55-65% on south-facing windows and a remarkable 72-77% on western exposures. This means lower cooling bills for you and a more comfortable home environment.

Beyond energy savings, blocking direct sunlight also helps prolong the life of your furniture, floors, and carpets by preventing sun fading and damage. It’s a practical investment that protects your home and your wallet.

Navigating Your Options: Types and Materials for Patio Covers in Utah

Choosing the right patio cover involves considering both functionality and aesthetics. We understand that every home and homeowner has unique needs and desires. That’s why we offer a wide range of options, ensuring your patio cover in Utah perfectly complements your home’s architecture and your personal style.

Common Patio Cover Styles

The variety of patio cover styles available means there’s a perfect match for any outdoor space:

• Solid Roof Covers: These provide complete shade and protection from rain and snow. They are ideal for creating a fully sheltered outdoor room, allowing you to enjoy your patio even during inclement weather. Our solid top patio covers are durable, maintenance-free, and constructed from robust materials for strength.
• Insulated Panels: For ultimate comfort, insulated roof panels offer superior temperature control. They keep the space beneath cooler in the summer and can even help retain warmth during colder months, making your patio truly a four-season haven. These are excellent for creating an outdoor living room.
• Lattice/Pergolas: If you desire partial shade and a more open, airy feel, lattice covers or pergolas are an neat choice. They add architectural interest and create beautiful dappled shade, perfect for growing climbing plants. Our lattice covers are made of maintenance-free aluminum, offering comfort without a solid roof.
• Combination Covers: Can’t decide between full shade and partial sun? Many homeowners opt for a combination cover, integrating solid panels with lattice sections to get the best of both worlds.
• V-Pan and Flatpan Styles: These refer to the profile of the aluminum roofing panels, offering different aesthetic and structural qualities. V-pan covers have a distinctive V-shaped channel, while flatpan covers present a smoother, flatter appearance.
• Enclosed Rooms: For those seeking true year-round indoor-outdoor living, enclosed rooms like screen enclosures or sunrooms are an option. Screen enclosures keep bugs out while allowing breezes through, while sunrooms with aluminum frames and glass offer a fully protected space. These can be built using existing patio covers as a base.

Whether you prefer a modern, sleek design or a more traditional look, our custom-built solutions ensure a seamless appearance that complements your home. We can even match custom stucco trim to integrate your patio cover perfectly with existing home exteriors.

Popular Materials for Patio Covers in Utah

The materials used for your patio cover are crucial, especially given Utah’s demanding climate. We prioritize durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal.

• Aluminum (Alumawood): This is our material of choice for many patio covers in Utah, and for good reason. Our industry-leading Alumawood by Amerimax products are designed to withstand Utah’s harsh weather conditions. Aluminum is exceptionally durable, resisting rust, warping, cracking, and rotting that can plague other materials. It’s also low-maintenance, requiring no painting or staining, and the factory-finished components retain their color, gloss, and texture longer than alternatives.
• Steel: Galvanized steel is another strong material, often used in conjunction with aluminum for added structural integrity, especially for larger spans or higher snow loads.
• Wood: For a classic, natural look, wood remains a popular choice for some patio covers and pergolas. However, it requires more maintenance (staining, sealing) to withstand Utah’s weather and resist rot and pests.
• Composite Materials: These materials, often a blend of reclaimed wood and plastic, offer the aesthetic appeal of wood with improved durability and reduced maintenance. They resist moisture and insect damage, ensuring a great look year after year without constant upkeep.
• Stucco Finishes: For those who want their patio cover to look like an original part of their home, we can apply custom stucco finishes that match your existing exterior color and texture.

The right material choice ensures your patio cover will look fantastic and perform reliably for decades.

Built for the Beehive State: Weather-Proofing Your Patio Cover

Utah’s weather is a beautiful but challenging paradox – scorching summers and heavy, snowy winters, all at high elevations. When it comes to patio covers in Utah, these extremes aren’t just considerations; they’re non-negotiable design factors. Our experience since 1976 has taught us precisely what it takes to build structures that endure and protect.

Beating the Summer Sun and Heat

The Utah sun is no joke, especially in the summer. A well-designed patio cover acts as your first line of defense against intense UV rays and oppressive heat.

• UV Protection: Our materials, like Alumawood, are chosen for their ability to block harmful UV radiation, protecting not only you and your family but also your outdoor furniture and decking from fading and degradation.
• Fade-Resistant Finishes: The factory-finished aluminum components we use are specifically designed to maintain their original color, gloss, and texture for years, resisting the harsh effects of continuous sun exposure.
• Insulated Roofs for Temperature Control: For maximum comfort, insulated patio cover panels are a game-changer. They create a thermal barrier, significantly reducing the temperature underneath the cover compared to non-insulated options. This means you can enjoy your patio even on the hottest days.
• Material Color Choices: Lighter colored materials can reflect more sunlight, further contributing to a cooler environment beneath your patio cover. We guide our customers in selecting colors that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.

Standing Strong Through Snow and Wind

When winter arrives in Utah, it brings with it the majestic beauty of snow, but also the practical challenge of snow loads. Coupled with strong winds, these elements demand robust engineering for any outdoor structure.

• Snow Load Capacity: All of our patio covers are engineered to meet or exceed local building codes for snow loads. This means we design and construct structures that can safely bear the weight of heavy snowfall common in areas like the Wasatch Front, Northern Utah, and even Logan’s high elevation. This is a critical safety consideration that we take very seriously.
• Wind Resistance Ratings: Utah can experience significant wind events. Our structures are designed to withstand high winds, with some systems engineered to resist winds up to 175 mph. This structural integrity ensures your patio cover remains secure and stable, providing reliable protection through all seasons.
• Structural Integrity: We use high-quality structural aluminum and galvanized steel, ensuring the entire framework of your patio cover is built to last. Extruded aluminum beams, for instance, offer exceptional strength and durability, preventing issues like warping or bending under stress.
• Importance of Professional Engineering: This isn’t a DIY job when it comes to Utah’s weather. Professional engineering is paramount to ensure your patio cover can safely handle the specific snow and wind requirements of your location. We ensure every installation adheres to the strictest safety and quality standards.

Our commitment is to provide patio covers in Utah that are not only beautiful but also built like fortresses against the elements, giving you peace of mind year after year.

The A-to-Z Installation Guide: From Quote to Completion

Starting on a patio cover project can feel like a big step, but with the right partner, it’s a smooth and rewarding process. Our goal at Awnings Unlimited is to make your journey from initial idea to enjoying your new outdoor space as straightforward and pleasant as possible.

Finding a Reputable Utah Patio Cover Company

When choosing a company for your patio cover in Utah, you’re looking for more than just a contractor; you’re seeking a trusted partner. Here’s what we believe you should look for:

• Years in Business: Experience matters. We’ve been a family-owned and operated business creating shade for customers in Utah and Wyoming since 1976. This longevity speaks to our commitment and expertise in the industry.
• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: What do past clients say? Look for consistent positive feedback regarding craftsmanship, professionalism, communication, and timely completion. We are proud of our satisfied customers who often highlight our excellent service and quality work.
• Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is fully licensed and insured. This protects you, the homeowner, and ensures professional standards are met. We are licensed and insured in Utah and Wyoming, and also serve Eastern Nevada, Southern Idaho, and Colorado.
• Strong Warranties: A reputable company stands behind its work and materials. Look for comprehensive warranties. We offer one of the strongest warranties in the industry: a limited lifetime warranty on materials used and a 5-year warranty on labor.
• Local Experience: A company deeply familiar with Utah’s specific weather conditions and local building codes (from Salt Lake City to Ogden, St. George, Logan, and across the Wasatch Front) will provide superior advice and installation. Our team has extensive local experience, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of outdoor living here.

The Installation Process for Patio Covers in Utah

Our process is designed for clarity and efficiency, ensuring you know what to expect every step of the way.

1. Initial Consultation: It all starts with your vision. We discuss your needs, preferences, and how you envision using your new outdoor space. This helps us understand the scope of your project.
2. Free Estimates: Based on our discussion, we provide a detailed, no-obligation free estimate. This includes material options, design choices, and a clear breakdown of costs.
3. Design Selection: We work with you to finalize the design, considering your home’s architecture, desired shade level, and material preferences. Our custom design capabilities ensure your patio cover is unique to your home.
4. Permits and Local Codes: Navigating local building codes and obtaining necessary permits can be complex. We handle this process for you, ensuring your new patio cover complies with all regulations in your specific Utah city or county. This is a crucial step to avoid future issues.
5. Site Preparation: Before installation, our team prepares the site, ensuring a clean and safe work area.
6. Installation Timeline: In most cases, the physical installation of a new patio cover can be completed efficiently, often within 1 to 2 days for many projects. Our professional installation team works diligently and respectfully, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
7. Final Inspection: Once installed, we conduct a thorough final inspection with you to ensure everything meets our high standards and, most importantly, your complete satisfaction.

We believe in transparency and communication, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.

Understanding Costs and Warranty

The cost of a patio cover in Utah can vary widely, but understanding the factors involved helps you make an informed decision.

• Average Cost Factors:
  • Size: Larger covers naturally require more materials and labor.
  • Materials: High-performance materials like insulated aluminum panels or custom stucco finishes will typically cost more than basic aluminum lattice.
  • Complexity: Custom designs, unique shapes, integrated lighting, fans, or electrical installations will add to the overall cost. Attached structures might differ in cost from freestanding ones.
  • Site Preparation: Any necessary ground leveling or existing structure removal can influence the price.
  • Permits: The cost of obtaining local permits is typically included in the overall project price.

While we can’t provide an exact “average cost” without a specific project, we encourage you to request a free estimate. This will give you a precise understanding of the investment required for your unique patio cover.

• What a Good Warranty Includes: A robust warranty is a hallmark of a reputable company and provides peace of mind. For a patio cover, you should expect:
  • Material Warranty: This covers defects in the materials themselves. We offer a limited lifetime warranty on the materials we use, such as Alumawood by Amerimax. This means your cover is protected against manufacturing defects for its lifetime.
  • Labor Warranty: This covers the quality of the installation work. Our 5-year warranty on labor ensures that if any issues arise due to installation, we’ll address them promptly.

When choosing your patio cover provider, always ensure you understand the full scope of their warranty. It’s a testament to their confidence in their products and craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions about Utah Patio Covers

We often get questions from homeowners considering a patio cover in Utah. Here are some of the most common inquiries we receive:

What kind of maintenance do aluminum patio covers require?

One of the greatest advantages of aluminum patio covers, especially those made with materials like Alumawood, is their incredibly low maintenance. Unlike wood, which requires regular staining, sealing, or painting to protect against Utah’s harsh sun and snow, aluminum structures are virtually maintenance-free. They are:

• Resistant to Rust, Rot, and Pests: Aluminum doesn’t rust, rot, or attract pests, eliminating common problems associated with other materials.
• Simple Cleaning: Typically, all that’s needed is an occasional rinse with a garden hose to remove dust or debris. For tougher spots, a mild soap and water solution with a soft brush will do the trick. No harsh chemicals or specialized treatments are necessary.
• No Need for Repainting: The factory-applied finishes are designed to last for decades, maintaining their color and gloss without the need for repainting. This saves you significant time and money over the lifespan of your patio cover.

This low-maintenance aspect is a huge benefit for busy Utah homeowners, freeing up your weekends for more enjoyable activities.

Do I need a permit to build a patio cover in Utah?

Yes, in most cases, you will need a permit to build a patio cover in Utah. Building codes and permit requirements are put in place by local jurisdictions (cities and counties) to ensure structures are safe, meet zoning regulations, and are built to withstand local conditions, such as snow loads and wind.

• Local Building Codes: These codes dictate structural requirements, setback distances from property lines, and other specifications. Requirements can vary significantly from one city to another, even within the same county (e.g., Salt Lake City vs. Sandy or Orem vs. Provo).
• Permit Requirements Vary: The specific type of permit you need will depend on the size, type, and attachment method of your patio cover. For instance, a small, freestanding pergola might have different requirements than a large, attached, solid-roof patio cover.
• Role of the Contractor in Handling Permits: A reputable patio cover company, like Awnings Unlimited, will handle the entire permitting process for you. This includes preparing necessary drawings, submitting applications, and coordinating with local building departments. We have extensive experience with permit requirements across Utah and Wyoming, ensuring your project is compliant from the start. We always recommend confirming permit requirements with your chosen contractor before any work begins.

How long will a quality patio cover last in Utah’s climate?

A quality patio cover in Utah, particularly one made from durable materials and installed by experienced professionals, is a long-term investment designed to last for many decades.

• Longevity of Materials: Materials like our Alumawood aluminum are inherently resistant to the elements that cause degradation in other materials. They won’t warp, crack, rot, or rust, which are common failure points for wood or lesser-quality metals over time.
• Aluminum Durability: Aluminum is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio and resilience. It stands up to Utah’s intense UV exposure, heavy snow, and strong winds without deteriorating structurally or aesthetically.
• Lifetime Warranties on Materials: Our limited lifetime warranty on materials is a testament to the expected longevity of our products. This warranty means we are confident that the materials themselves will endure for the lifetime of the structure.
• Professional Installation Impact: The quality of installation is just as critical as the quality of materials. Proper engineering, secure anchoring, and meticulous assembly ensure the patio cover performs as designed for its full lifespan. Our professional installation, backed by a 5-year labor warranty, guarantees that your patio cover is built to last.

With proper care (which, as mentioned, is minimal for aluminum), you can expect your patio cover to remain a beautiful and functional part of your home for 30, 40, or even 50 years or more, providing continuous enjoyment and protection.

Conclusion: Transform Your Outdoor Living

Investing in a patio cover in Utah is an investment in your home, your comfort, and your lifestyle. We’ve explored the myriad benefits, from expanding your usable living space and boosting home value to significant energy savings and robust protection against Utah’s diverse climate. Whether you dream of year-round barbecues, a serene outdoor retreat, or simply a shaded haven for family gatherings, a custom patio cover makes it a reality.

At Awnings Unlimited, we are passionate about helping Utah homeowners transform their outdoor spaces. With decades of experience since 1976, a commitment to industry-leading Alumawood materials, and a strong warranty on both materials and labor, we are your trusted partner for creating a lasting home improvement. Don’t let Utah’s weather dictate when and how you enjoy your backyard.

Ready to improve your home and accept outdoor living to its fullest? Get a free quote for your custom Utah patio cover and let us help you design the perfect solution for your home.