Why a Backyard Covered Patio is Today’s Smartest Home Investment
A backyard covered area transforms your outdoor space into a year-round retreat, protecting you from the elements and increasing your home’s value. Whether you want the full weather protection of a solid patio cover, the classic style of a pergola, or the flexibility of a retractable awning, the right structure extends your living space for outdoor enjoyment.
Popular backyard covered area options include:
- Solid Patio Covers – Complete protection from all weather, ideal for outdoor kitchens and year-round use
- Pergolas – Partial shade with an open-lattice design, perfect for climbing plants
- Retractable Awnings – On-demand shade that retracts when not needed
- Gazebos – Freestanding structures that create defined outdoor rooms
- Louvered Roof Systems – Adjustable slats for customizable sun and rain control
The demand for outdoor living spaces has increased by 20% since the pandemic, with the global outdoor living market projected to grow from $109.5 billion in 2022 to $204.5 billion by 2032. A well-designed covered area creates a comfortable outdoor room that adds both lifestyle and resale value.
At Awnings Unlimited, we’ve been changing Utah backyards since 1976, specializing in custom backyard covered area solutions. We use durable Alumawood materials that withstand our region’s harsh winters and hot summers, helping homeowners create outdoor spaces that deliver comfort, protection, and lasting value.
The Transformative Benefits of a Covered Patio
Investing in a backyard covered area improves your lifestyle and home value, turning your outdoor space into a seamless extension of your indoor living.
First, a covered patio offers invaluable protection from the elements. Enjoy your patio during a light rain shower or host a barbecue without worrying about the sun. Our solid patio covers shield you from sun, rain, and snow, making your outdoor space usable year-round in Utah’s climate. This permanent shelter also protects your outdoor furniture, extending its lifespan.
Beyond protection, a backyard covered area dramatically increases your usable living space. An exposed patio becomes an outdoor living room. As outdoor design expert Melissa Skinner notes, “Covered and enclosed patios have been gaining popularity as we seek more space in our homes.” This expanded footprint allows for more relaxation and entertaining, turning an under-used area into a year-round destination.
The improved aesthetic appeal is another significant benefit. A custom-designed patio cover complements your home’s architecture, adding visual interest. Whether you choose a modern aluminum pergola or a wood-look cover, your backyard covered area becomes a stylish focal point.
Finally, a covered patio is a smart financial move that can lead to a higher property value. Homeowners can often recoup 75-100% of the cost of a new deck or porch addition. The added usable square footage and curb appeal make your home more attractive to buyers, adding both lifestyle and resale value.
A covered patio can also contribute to energy savings. By shading windows, it helps keep your home cooler in summer, potentially reducing air conditioning use and lowering energy bills. As a recent study on home renovations highlights, thoughtful outdoor additions are a worthwhile investment. You can learn more about the financial aspects of home improvements here.
Popular Types of Patio Covers to Consider
When envisioning your ideal backyard covered area, you’ll find a variety of options, each with unique benefits. We specialize in custom solutions for our specific climate and your personal style, ensuring your space is both beautiful and functional.
Solid Patio Covers: The Ultimate Backyard Covered Area for All-Weather Use
Solid patio covers offer comprehensive protection for maximum usability. With full coverage from sun, rain, and snow, they create all-weather outdoor rooms perfect for year-round use. Our solid panel roof systems provide a watertight solution, keeping your space dry and comfortable.
Solid covers can be seamlessly integrated with your home’s architecture, available in gable and sloped roof designs. We can customize an attached or freestanding structure to suit your needs. These covers are perfect for defining outdoor living spaces, from kitchens to cozy lounge areas. Our preferred material, Alumawood, offers the beauty of wood without the maintenance, making it a durable, low-maintenance choice ideal for Utah’s climate.
Pergola-Style Patio Covers: Classic Style and Filtered Light
Pergolas are a popular choice for a backyard covered area, offering a classic style with an open-lattice design for filtered light and partial shade. A pergola creates a central hub for relaxing and entertaining, making it a true extension of your home.
A charming aspect of pergolas is their ability to support climbing plants like wisteria or vines, creating a natural canopy. The open design also allows for excellent airflow. We offer pergolas in durable aluminum and Alumawood, which captures the wood aesthetic without the upkeep. For greater control, louvered pergola designs feature adjustable slats to manage sun, shade, and light rain. Motorized systems allow you to fine-tune your comfort with the touch of a button.
Retractable Patio Covers and Awnings: Flexibility on Demand
Retractable patio covers and awnings offer flexibility with on-demand shade. Extend the canopy for protection from sun or light rain, and retract it to enjoy full sun. This space-saving design is ideal for decks and patios where a permanent structure isn’t desired.
Available in motorized and manual options, our awnings feature durable fabrics and robust aluminum frames. For longevity, retract awnings in high winds. Some motorized systems include wind sensors for automatic retraction, adding convenience and peace of mind. Retractable awnings are perfect for patios with changing sun exposure, offering adaptability that fixed structures sometimes lack and providing a balance of sun protection and open-air enjoyment ideal for many Utah homes.
Choosing the Perfect Backyard Covered Area: Key Factors
Selecting the right backyard covered area for your home is an exciting decision, but it requires careful consideration of several factors. We’ll guide you through the essential elements to ensure your investment brings lasting enjoyment and value.
Material Matters: Comparing Durability, Maintenance, and Cost
The material you choose for your patio cover significantly impacts its durability, maintenance requirements, and overall cost. Here’s a comparison of popular options, with a special focus on materials we know perform exceptionally well in our Utah and Wyoming climates:
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Cost (Relative) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Extremely durable, rust-proof, non-combustible, weather-resistant | Very low; won’t rot, warp, crack, or peel; never needs painting; easy to clean | Medium-High |
| Wood-Look Aluminum | Same as Aluminum | Same as Aluminum; retains natural wood aesthetic without upkeep | Medium-High |
| Fabric | Good for awnings; weather-resistant, UV-protected | Moderate; may need seasonal cleaning or removal; can be replaced if damaged | Low-Medium |
Aluminum (like Alumawood): We highly recommend aluminum, particularly our Alumawood products, for a backyard covered area. It’s incredibly durable, resisting rust, rot, and termites – common issues with traditional wood. Our Alumawood products are made from 100% aluminum, are non-combustible, and feature an Aluma-Shield paint system with Teflon surface protector, meaning they never need painting and clean easily with soap and water. This translates to a beautiful, long-lasting structure with minimal effort on your part, perfect for our region’s varied weather.
Wood-Look Aluminum: This material offers the best of both worlds: the natural aesthetic of wood that many homeowners love, combined with the superior durability and minimal maintenance of aluminum. You get the classic look without the constant upkeep of staining, painting, or dealing with rot and pests.
Fabric: For retractable awnings and some pergola canopies, durable, UV-protected fabrics are used. These are versatile and can be quite cost-effective for on-demand shade. While generally weather-resistant, fabric may require more seasonal maintenance, such as cleaning or even removal during heavy snowfalls to preserve its integrity. However, the ability to replace fabric sections makes it a flexible option.
Climate, Budget, and Style
When planning your backyard covered area, it’s crucial to consider these practical aspects:
- Local Climate Considerations: Our region, encompassing Utah, Wyoming, Eastern Nevada, Southern Idaho, and Colorado, experiences everything from harsh winters with significant snow loads to hot, sunny summers. Your patio cover needs to withstand these extremes. We account for snow load and wind resistance in our designs, ensuring your structure is built to last. For instance, solid panel roofs are engineered to handle heavy snow, while retractable awnings are designed to be retracted during high winds. Proper drainage is also a key consideration to manage rainwater and snowmelt effectively.
- Setting a Realistic Budget: Project costs can vary widely depending on the type of cover, materials, size, and features. It’s important to set a realistic budget from the outset. While some options are more cost-effective (like basic pergolas), others with advanced features (such as motorized louvered roofs) will be a greater investment. We offer flexible financing options and work with you to find a solution that fits your financial plan, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.
- Matching Your Home’s Architectural Style: Your backyard covered area should complement, not detract from, your home’s existing aesthetic. Whether your home is modern, traditional, rustic, or craftsman, there’s a patio cover style that will improve its appeal. Alumawood, for example, can be designed to offer the clean, contemporary feel of anodized aluminum or the farmhouse-leaning charm of timber-frame structures. Our expert designers will help you choose a style, color, and finish that seamlessly integrates with your home’s unique character.
- Professional Installation vs. DIY: While some smaller, temporary shade solutions might be DIY-friendly, for permanent and semi-permanent structures like solid patio covers and pergolas, professional installation is highly recommended. Our expert team has been installing custom patio covers across Utah and Wyoming since 1976. We are licensed and insured in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona, ensuring your project is handled with expertise, adheres to local building codes, and comes with a leading warranty. This not only guarantees the safety and longevity of your structure but also protects your investment.
Designing Your Ideal Outdoor Space
Once the practicalities are addressed, it’s time to dream about the design! Your backyard covered area should be a true extension of your home, reflecting your lifestyle and providing maximum comfort and enjoyment.
- Functionality Planning: Before diving into aesthetics, consider how you intend to use the space. Will it be primarily for quiet relaxation, lively entertaining, or both? Will it house an outdoor kitchen, a dining area, or a comfortable lounge? Planning its primary functionality will guide decisions on size, layout, and integrated features.
- Entertainment Features: Lift your outdoor experience with built-in entertainment options. Many homeowners opt for outdoor kitchens equipped with grills, refrigerators, and even pizza ovens. A fire pit or an outdoor fireplace can create a cozy focal point, perfect for gathering with friends and family on cooler evenings. We can also integrate lighting and sound systems to set the perfect ambiance for any occasion.
- Seating Arrangements: Comfortable, weather-resistant outdoor furniture is key to making your covered patio an inviting space. Think about different zones: a dining area for meals, a lounge area with sofas and armchairs for relaxation, or even a hammock for ultimate serenity. The right seating arrangements, complemented by outdoor rugs and throw pillows, can make your backyard covered area feel just as comfortable as your indoor living room.
Creative Ways to Improve Your Outdoor Oasis
A backyard covered area offers endless possibilities for enhancing your outdoor lifestyle. Beyond traditional seating and dining, these spaces can be transformed into unique and functional zones that cater to your every whim.
Creative Uses for Your Backyard Covered Area
Let your imagination run wild! Your covered patio isn’t just a patio anymore; it’s an adaptable space ready for creative change:
- Outdoor Living Room: This is the most popular change. With comfortable, weather-resistant furniture, outdoor rugs, and ambient lighting, your covered patio becomes a seamless extension of your indoor living room. It’s perfect for unwinding, reading, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
- Alfresco Dining Space: Lift your meals by creating a dedicated outdoor dining area. A pergola is a tried and true solution for outdoor dining, offering filtered light and a charming atmosphere. Pair it with an outdoor kitchen, and you’ll have the ultimate setup for entertaining.
- Poolside Lounge: If you have a pool, a covered area nearby provides essential shade and a comfortable retreat from the sun. This could be a poolside lounge with daybeds, or a shaded spot for a snack bar, allowing you to increase the functional footprint of your pool area.
- Home Gym or Yoga Studio: Looking for a refreshing workout spot? A covered patio can be enclosed with screens or panels to create a private, airy space for yoga, meditation, or even a compact home gym.
- Outdoor Movie Theater: With a solid patio cover, you can mount a projector screen or a weather-resistant television. Add some comfortable seating, string lights, and a popcorn machine, and you’ve got a magical outdoor cinema experience under the stars.
- Kids’ Play Zone: Provide a shaded, protected area for children to play. This keeps them out of direct sun and can shield toys from the elements, making it an ideal spot for a sandpit, play table, or even a small art station.
Essential Accessories: Lighting, Comfort, and Ambiance
To truly complete your backyard covered area, thoughtful accessories are key. They improve functionality, comfort, and create that inviting ambiance that makes you want to spend all your time outdoors.
- Integrated LED Lighting: Modern patio covers can incorporate sleek, integrated LED lighting directly into the structure. This provides excellent task lighting for cooking or reading, as well as soft ambient light for evening gatherings.
- String Lights: For a touch of whimsical charm, string lights are unbeatable. Drape them across your pergola, along the beams of a solid cover, or around posts to create a warm, festive glow.
- Ceiling Fans: Especially in our hot Utah summers, a ceiling fan can make a huge difference in comfort, providing much-needed air circulation. Many modern fans are designed for outdoor use and can be integrated seamlessly into your patio cover.
- Infrared Heaters: Extend the usability of your covered patio into cooler evenings and shoulder seasons with infrared heaters. These can be mounted to the ceiling or walls, providing instant, efficient warmth, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space through all seasons.
- Privacy Screens: If your patio feels a bit too exposed, privacy screens (such as lattice panels, decorative metal screens, or even outdoor curtains) can create a more intimate and secluded feel. A detached patio cover with a privacy wall, for example, can define a truly private oasis.
- Outdoor Sound Systems: Integrate weather-resistant speakers into your covered area to enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or the big game outdoors.
Integrating Nature into Your Design
A backyard covered area doesn’t mean disconnecting from nature; it means integrating it beautifully into your design.
- Vertical Gardens: If space is limited, a vertical garden on a wall of your covered patio can add a lush, green element, bringing life and fresh air to the space.
- Large Potted Plants: Use large, striking potted plants to define areas, add color, and bring a touch of the garden onto your patio. Consider drought-tolerant options for our arid climate.
- Climbing Vines for Pergola-Style Covers: This is a classic choice for pergolas. Training fragrant vines like clematis or trumpet vine up the posts and over the lattice creates a living roof that provides natural shade and a beautiful aesthetic.
- Container Gardens: Even with a solid roof, you can create vibrant container gardens with herbs, flowers, or small shrubs. This allows you to easily change your display with the seasons.
- Choosing Native Plants: When incorporating greenery around your covered patio, consider choosing native plants for your landscape. These are better for your local ecosystem and encourage local wildlife to flourish. For our regions of Utah, Wyoming, Eastern Nevada, Southern Idaho, and Colorado, selecting appropriate native species will ensure your garden thrives with less water and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Backyard Structures
We often get asked important questions about installing a backyard covered area. Here are some of the most common inquiries and our expert answers.
Do I need a permit to build a patio cover?
This is a crucial question, and the answer generally is: it varies by location, and often depends on the size and type of the structure, and whether it’s attached to your home. In Utah, Wyoming, Eastern Nevada, Southern Idaho, and Colorado, local building codes and municipal regulations dictate permit requirements.
For permanent structures, such as solid patio covers, pergolas, and louvered roof systems, permits are usually required. These ensure that the structure meets safety standards for snow load, wind resistance, and structural integrity. A simple rule of thumb is that if it has a roof and is attached to your house or is a significant freestanding structure, you’ll likely need a permit. Smaller, temporary structures like some canopies or umbrellas typically do not require permits.
As a licensed and insured company operating across Utah, Nevada, and Arizona, we are well-versed in local permit requirements. We will guide you through the process, ensuring your backyard covered area project complies with all necessary building codes and by-laws in your specific area, whether that’s Salt Lake City, Rock Springs, or anywhere in between. It’s always best to check with your local planning department before beginning any construction to avoid potential issues down the road.
How much value does a covered patio add to a home?
A backyard covered area is a significant home improvement that can substantially increase your home’s value and appeal. It’s not just an expense; it’s an investment with a strong return.
- Increased Curb Appeal: A beautifully designed covered patio improves the aesthetic of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. It signals a well-maintained and thoughtfully upgraded property.
- Expanded Usable Square Footage: While not always counted as traditional indoor square footage, a covered patio effectively extends your home’s usable living space. This “outdoor room” offers functional areas for dining, entertaining, and relaxing, which is a major draw for buyers. This is particularly valuable in our region, where outdoor living is highly prized.
- High Return on Investment (ROI): Studies have shown that homeowners can expect to recoup a significant portion of their investment, often 75% or more of the cost of a new deck or porch addition. This makes a covered patio one of the more financially rewarding home improvements.
- Improved Lifestyle: Beyond monetary value, a covered patio offers an improved lifestyle that is highly desirable. It allows homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space more often, in greater comfort, and for a wider range of activities, making the home more attractive overall.
A covered patio transforms your backyard into a sought-after amenity that adds both lifestyle value and resale appeal to your property.
What is the best low-maintenance patio cover material?
For homeowners in Utah, Wyoming, and surrounding areas looking for a backyard covered area that offers beauty without the burden of constant upkeep, aluminum, specifically Alumawood, is hands down the best low-maintenance patio cover material.
Here’s why Alumawood stands out:
- Exceptional Durability: Unlike traditional wood, Alumawood is 100% aluminum. It won’t rot, warp, crack, or peel, even under our region’s intense sun, heavy snow, or freezing temperatures. It’s also termite-proof and non-combustible, offering superior longevity and safety.
- No Painting or Staining Ever: One of the biggest maintenance headaches with wood is the need for regular painting or staining. Alumawood comes with a durable Aluma-Shield paint system that includes a Teflon surface protector. This means its beautiful finish lasts for years without fading, chipping, or requiring recoating. You get the natural aesthetic of wood without any of the associated painting.
- Easy to Clean: A quick wash with soap and water is typically all that’s needed to keep your Alumawood patio cover looking pristine. There’s no need for harsh chemicals or specialized cleaning products.
Choosing Alumawood for your backyard covered area means more time enjoying your outdoor oasis and less time on arduous maintenance tasks. It’s an investment in beauty, durability, and peace of mind.
Conclusion: Bring Your Vision to Life
As we’ve explored, creating a backyard covered area is one of the most impactful home improvements you can make. It offers unparalleled protection from the elements, significantly expands your usable living space, improves your home’s aesthetic appeal, and provides a strong return on investment. From the robust, all-weather coverage of solid patio roofs to the filtered light and natural charm of pergolas, and the adaptable convenience of retractable awnings, there’s a perfect solution for every home and lifestyle.
We’ve seen how thoughtful design, the right materials, and essential accessories can transform a simple patio into an outdoor living room, an alfresco dining haven, or even a serene yoga studio. This isn’t just about adding a structure; it’s about crafting an outdoor oasis that brings joy, comfort, and lasting value to your home.
At Awnings Unlimited, we understand the unique climate and aesthetic preferences of homeowners across Utah, Wyoming, Eastern Nevada, Southern Idaho, and Colorado. Since 1976, our Salt Lake City-based family business has been dedicated to providing custom backyard covered area solutions. We pride ourselves on using durable Alumawood materials, ensuring professional installation, and backing our work with a leading warranty. Our expert team is ready to help you steer the options, from material selection and climate considerations to design and permitting, ensuring your vision becomes a reality.
Don’t let the weather dictate your outdoor enjoyment. It’s time to create the outdoor space you’ve always dreamed of. We invite you to explore custom patio cover solutions for your home and let us help you bring your vision to life. Your backyard oasis awaits!