Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Patio Covers

Patio covers have become quite popular in recent years for homeowners looking to improve their outdoor space. Covers provide sun and rain protection that will allow you to spend more comfortable time outside. They also will keep your furniture dry, allowing it to last for several extra years. A cover can also reduce your energy bills and make your yard look even prettier. Insulated patio covers offer even more benefits to homeowners.

Insulated patio covers have a piece of insulation in the middle of two pieces of patio cover material. One popular choice of material is aluminum. Aluminum is lightweight, non-toxic, and will last for many years because it is quite durable. Aluminum is much less expensive than a wood or metal cover, and is available in many different colors, designs, and finishes. They can withstand extreme rain or sun as well as scratching. They can be cleaned very easily and require very little maintenance otherwise. To clean it, all you need to do is take a broom to it with some cleaning solution.

Insulated patio covers have an advantage over non-insulated counterparts because they can keep your patio even cooler in hot summer months. The insulation is made of foam sheets that are placed in the middle of two aluminum panels. This design enhances the cover’s effectiveness as a weather deterrent, and will also help reduce your energy bills by even more since it keeps the area under your patio cooler than ever before. Insulated covers can also have polystyrene cores and can be equipped with cleat connectors made of vinyl.

The covers are normally made with interlock features that make the padding useful since it becomes stuck tightly in between the aluminum pieces. Aluminum can be purchased with laminate finishes that will provide extra resistance during rain and snow periods. These covers will also mute the sound of raindrops, an added bonus. They require special treatments to your roof and can be fitted with plywood if you do not want an aluminum cover.

All in all, you have many options when purchasing a cover – you get to choose the material, whether it is insulated or not, and if you want a finished insulated cover or not. Be sure to do adequate research before buying so you buy what is best for you.