Jan 12, 2023 | Patio Covers
There’s no doubt that, in Florida, a covered patio is an ideal place for eating, entertaining, exercising, or simply enjoying watching the world go by. What type should you choose if you’re contemplating adding a covered patio or porch? Exploring the pros and cons of popular options can help you select the covered patio for your needs.
Types of Covered Patios
Perma-Wood Pergolas
Historians have traced the earliest pergola back to 1400 B.C. These airy shade structures are familiar because they’ve been gracing gardens and backyards for centuries. Perma-Wood is a much newer invention. This sturdy material from Structall blends the benefits of wood and aluminum. Before you install a Perma-Wood pergola, consider the following:
- Pros: Permawood offers the look of wood and the durability and ease of aluminum. Unlike a wooden structure, a Perma-Wood pergola won’t rot, warp, or fall victim to wood-eating insects. It also won’t require hours of painting or staining.
- Cons: By design, pergolas have open roofs that resemble mesh or latticework. If you’re looking for a covered patio addition that will keep out the rain, a pergola isn’t for you.
Shingled Gazebos
A backyard gazebo is another classic shade structure. What makes it different from a pergola? Gazebos have solid roofs. They generally look best with a shingled roof. In addition, they often have some form of rails on the sides. Before you decide on a shingled gazebo, weigh the following:
- Pros: Adding a gazebo to your outdoor living space can create an area that’s almost like an outdoor room. Gazebos can provide greater privacy and security.
- Cons: Because their construction is more involved, gazebos tend to be more expensive than a pergola.
Aluminum Awnings
Any list of popular patio covers in the Sunshine State is sure to include aluminum awnings. If you’re thinking about this patio topper, ponder these points first:
- Pros: An awning provides a neat, attractive look and an efficient and cost-effective way to shade and shelter your patio. With a custom-made aluminum awning, you can easily cover any size or shape patio with a sturdy, durable awning that will look great and perform beautifully while requiring little maintenance.
- Cons: Traditional aluminum awnings lack walls. It’s simply the roof awning. Therefore, if you’re looking for more privacy or protection from outside pests, an awning may not be the right patio cover.
Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels
What if you want an insulated patio roof? Whether you’re craving an aluminum awning, an aluminum porch cover, or an aluminum patio cover, these cleverly designed insulated panels from Structall can do the trick. Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels wrap a metal skin around a foam core. A patented joint system ensures fast installation and lasting durability. If a roof of insulated panels seems right, think about the following:
- Pros: Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels arrive prefinished in a wide range of colors, but you can add shingles or siding to achieve the precise look you want. They readily fit into any configuration and it’s simple to add special features like skylights, electric lights or fans. Their insulated core keeps your covered patio cooler and helps to muffle sounds.
- Cons: These types of covered patios do tend to run a bit more, but the finished product is more of an extension of your home than an open environment.
There’s no shortage of covered patio ideas. If you’re struggling to find the best fit for your space, turn to the experts at Dulando Screen & Awning for help. We’ll supply a free in-home design consultation to discuss the possibilities for your covered patio. Contact us today to learn more.
Jan 11, 2022 | Aluminum Awnings, Outdoor Patio, Patio Covers, Patio Enclosures, Screen Enclosures, Sunroom
At Dulando Screen & Awning, we take pride in building custom screen enclosures, pool enclosures and sunrooms that are made to delight today and for years to come. Getting that result demands expert design, exacting craftsmanship, and quality materials. That’s why we use Snap-N-Lock insulated aluminum roof panels from Structall as a roofing option for our structures. They’re the best choice for many reasons.
Why We Love Snap-N-Lock Insulated Aluminum Roof Panels
Aluminum insulated panels may not be as familiar as other materials like wood and shingles, but they deliver exceptional results. When you discover their outstanding qualities, you’ll understand why we recommend Structall Snap-N-Lock panels.
Multitasking
Snap-N-Lock panels contain structure, insulation, and a single, multitasking piece moisture barrier. That’s an incredible value. You save on the purchase of additional materials and the time and labor it would take to fabricate and install them.
Lightweight
Snap-N-Lock insulated aluminum roof panels are solid while being relatively lightweight. They’re roughly half the weight of a comparable wood/shingle roof. As a result, less structural support is necessary to hold the roof in place. That offers greater design freedom and can help keep material costs lower. Plus, installation is quicker and easier since there’s no need for heavy equipment to maneuver these insulated roof panels.
Strong
Florida is famous for its storms. Structall’s insulated panels deliver incredible strength. They do an excellent job of standing up to the windy weather, intense storms, and hurricanes that can make life in the Sunshine State interesting at times.
Pest-resistant
Aluminum roof panels have a natural pest resistance. The materials made from aren’t a potential food source, so pests don’t find them appealing. In contrast, keeping termites, carpenter ants, and other pests away from wooden structures is a constant battle.
Moisture-resistant
As their name suggests, Structall Snap-N-Lock insulated aluminum roof panels snap and lock together. A sealant applied during installation creates a weather-tight connection. Using wood products might raise worries about mold, mildew, or rot. However, there’s no reason for concern with these insulated patio roof panels.
Fire-resistant
If you’re looking for fuel for a cheery campfire, wood is a perfect pick. It burns easily. That thought isn’t as comforting when you’re contemplating construction materials. Snap-N-Lock panels have high fire resistance. Therefore, these aluminum roofing panels are safer for your family and property.
Ecofriendly
All the components of Structall’s insulated roof panels can be easily recycled into equally valuable products. That means there’s very little waste from these products after their lifecycle is complete. With certain plywood, you must worry that the chemical gasses used in the manufacturing process will be discharged into the surrounding area. That means the plywood used in your project could be emitting formaldehyde into the air. Thankfully, that’s not a concern with Structall’s aluminum insulated panels.
Choose Snap-N-Lock Aluminum Insulated Roof Panels
Are you ready to enhance your outdoor living space with a covered patio or Florida room? Dulando Screen & Awning has you covered. Our team of experts can help you create the optimal design for a new screen room or sunroom for your space and budget. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to request an appointment for a free in-home design consultation.
May 19, 2021 | Aluminum Awnings, Patio Covers
Florida is famous for steamy sunshine and unbearable heat. Even in the coastal areas like New Smyrna Beach and Daytona Beach. So it’s easy to understand one of the biggest perks of a patio awning. Creating shade for your patio keeps the space cooler and protects from the sun’s harsh, damaging rays. When it comes to awnings for patios, there are two kinds to choose from: fixed awnings and retractable awnings. Which patio awning is better? To decide, consider a few points.
Fixed Awning vs. Retractable Awning Differences
Durability
Fixed awnings are also called permanent awnings and stationary awnings. Stationary awnings are aluminum, so they stay put. As a result, they can withstand the wear and tear of the unrelenting weather. Installing fixed awnings can turn patios into outdoor rooms that let you use the space even when the weather is less than perfect. In contrast, retractable awnings often have fabric tops and support structures less reliable than their permanent counterparts. In many cases, you’ll need to bring them in and store them during inclement weather to prevent damage.
Size
Custom fixed awnings can cover patios of virtually any size. Whether it’s a private patio in a backyard or a massive parking lot, it’s possible to build a fixed awning to cover it. Because of their portable, lightweight nature, retractable awnings tend to be limited in size. If you have a small or medium-sized patio that you want to shade, you may be able to find retractable awnings that will stretch to cover it. However, if you have a sizeable patio, your options will likely be limited to fixed awnings.
Cost
It should come as no surprise that fixed awnings have a higher price tag than retractable awnings. However, the longer lifespan offsets the higher initial cost. Retractable awnings also vary in costs. Motorized tops tend to be more expensive than those that are manually opened and closed. Similarly, the quality of the material used in the cover can significantly impact both the price and the potential longevity of the awning.
Maintenance
When you install a patio awning, you’d much rather spend your time enjoying it than working to maintain it. Some will argue that a retractable awning is easier to maintain because anything that accumulates on top tends to fall off as you open and close it. Meanwhile, reaching the roof of a fixed awning can require some climbing. Since most fixed awnings in the Sunshine State are aluminum, there is less maintenance. It requires very little work to keep it looking great. A quick rinsing off now and then will probably be all that’s necessary.
Patio Awnings are Essential
Are you interested in enhancing your backyard living spaces with a custom aluminum awning? Reach out to Dulando Screen and Awning. We bring a deep knowledge of patio awning design, an up-to-the-minute understanding of the relevant Florida building codes and local ordinances. Whether you’re in the Orlando area or the Volusia County area that includes New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater or Port Orange, we understand the local ordinances. When you hire Dulando, you also receive a commitment to quality in every job. Contact us today to schedule a free design consultation.
Feb 22, 2018 | Patio Covers, Pergolas, Perma-Wood
Pergolas are a classic design choice for a patio cover that suits a wide variety of homes. However, Florida has so many days of high humidity and wet storms, using wood for a patio cover in Florida is not a wise choice. Perma-Wood covers resemble wood, but these covers are made of durable and flexible aluminum. Understanding the answers to a few common questions about Perma-Wood can help you make the right decision for your own backyard pergola cover.
Does Perma-Wood Rust?
Since Perma-Wood is made with aluminum, it is naturally resistant to rust. This makes it a particularly great product for our Florida climate. However, you may still see some rust spots due to the screws used to hold Perma-Wood covers together. Most Perma-Wood screws are still made from steel, but the screws used in these covers are typically galvanized or hidden from view to minimize the appearance of rust.
Is Perma-Wood Easy to Maintain?
Perma-Wood requires far less maintenance than most other materials commonly used in pergolas. You won’t need to repaint your patio cover to maintain its look. Dirt is easy to remove just by hosing or wiping down the structure. Unlike wood pergolas, you won’t have to worry about wood rot, insect infestations and warping. Additionally, a protective surface coating keeps your Perma-Wood pergola safe from salt, pollutants and other elements.
Can Perma-Wood Withstand Extreme Weather?
Living in Florida means living with extreme weather. Homeowners must be careful to choose materials that can withstand harsh storms which usually include high winds, even if it’s not hurricane season. Fortunately, an Perma-Wood pergola offers plenty of durability and is built to survive strong winds, including those experienced during a Category 4 hurricane. Perma-Wood patio covers are also built to endure other types of weather, including heat and extensive sunlight. As much as we love our sunshine, the sun can literally eat through materials.
How Can I Customize My Perma-Wood Cover?
Perma-Wood covers are available in a variety of colors, including varying shades of white, gray and brown. You’ll also be able to choose from four attractive designs for the end pieces of the cover. To further personalize your cover, you can hang lightweight plants, lights or other decorations from a lattice patio cover without worrying about pulling down the structure. Finally, Perma-Wood covers can be attached to your home or build it as a free-standing structure.
How Does the Cost Compare to Wood?
Pergola covers made with Perma-Wood will cost more to install than pergolas made with wood. However, it’s important to look beyond the upfront cost of both products; Perma-Wood is a strong material that will last without needing the expensive repairs and frequent maintenance that wood structures typically require. Building a pergola with wood will need to be replaced more frequently.
Additional Reading: Perma-Wood Covers
If you want a wood patio cover but are concerned about the strength of the material, consider opting for Perma-Wood instead. With Perma-Wood , you can have the wood look you desire without worrying about the pergola surviving a storm and years of moisture. Dulando Screen & Awning offers many types of patio covers and aluminum awnings built with Perma-Wood for Florida homeowners. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to learn more about Perma-Wood . We’ll be happy to schedule an in-home consultation and provide you with no-obligation free estimate to build the backyard of your dreams.
Aug 24, 2016 | Aluminum Awnings, Patio Covers, Perma-Wood
What makes a covered patio a marvelous addition to your backyard landscape? These handy structures offer a shady space to escape from the steamy Florida sun while relaxing alone, entertaining friends or grilling up a tasty meal. With so many different patio covers to choose from, it’s easy to find a style and size that’s perfect for your patio.
Favorite Types of Patio Covers
Aluminum Awnings
When it comes to providing shade, aluminum awnings are porch and aluminum patio covers that get the job done. Structall Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels are highly efficient and relatively inexpensive. These durable awnings shield you and your space from the elements. Extending the amount of time when your patio is a comfortable refuge. Aluminum awnings last for years and require little in the way of maintenance. As a side bonus, homeowners don’t have to waste time worrying about burning or insect damage issues. A custom-built aluminum awning can be designed to shelter practically any size space. The clean, attractive appearance of this type of patio roof is sure to enhance a home’s curb appeal.
Perma-Wood Pergolas From Structall
With their classic lines and incredible flexibility, pergolas are a favorite patio cover that adds warmth and elegance to any landscape. Traditionally, pergolas were made of wood, and the upkeep required to keep them in good repair was quite a commitment.
Today, homeowners can have both the look they love and the convenience of minimal maintenance with Structall’s Perma-Wood Shade Structures. Combining the benefits of wood and aluminum, Perma-Wood offers the look and feel of wood thanks to an embossed surface and the ease of care of aluminum. These pergolas will not warp, rot or crack, and owners never need to stress about painting or termites. Perma-Wood is available in seven designer colors and is finished with high-quality paint that won’t chip or peel. Homeowners also have their choice of various beam and rafter end cuts. Additional options include recessed lighting and a patented gutter guard system.
Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels From Structall
Another intelligent innovation from Structall is Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels. These are perfect for a patio roof. The patio roof is created with a metal skin over a foam core and a patented joint system. These panels deliver impressive strength and offer superior energy efficiency. This feature helps keep the area they shelter significantly cooler. Studies have shown that structures built using Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels can result in an up to 58 percent reduction in heating and cooling costs. The insulation hidden inside these panels can also muffle noises, so the sound of heavy rain or hail hitting the patio cover is less intrusive.
Additional Reading for Patio Covers:
Capable of accommodating a broad range of floor plans, Snap-N-Lock Insulated Panels allow you to personalize a roof for your patio with ease. They will support unique options like a ceiling fan or skylight. Structall insulated panels can be used with their existing finish or topped with shingles or vinyl siding. If you decide to build a patio cover using Insulated Panels, let’s go the extra step with a screen enclosure to protect you against the Florida elements.
Are you ready to install a patio cover at your central Florida property? Let the experts at Dulando Screen and Awning help you select the ideal option for your home. Our team of talented designers, skilled fabricators and experienced installers delights in delivering the best for our customers. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to schedule a free in-home design consultation.Save
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