Apr 19, 2019 | Perma-Wood
At Dulando Screen & Awning, we thrive on delighting our customers by delivering both amazing quality and great value. That’s why we love Perma-Wood patio covers. Perma-Wood provides the best features of wood, vinyl and aluminum in a single material, so you can enjoy the advantages of all three. What makes the Perma-Wood patio cover such a smart choice? Check out these seven reasons to choose Perma-Wood patio covers over other patio materials.
Why Build a Patio Cover
1. It’s Attractive.
When constructing a patio shade cover, people often opt for wood because they like the natural beauty of wood. With a richly textured finish that mimics cedar wood grain, Perma-Wood is engineered to look and feel like wood. Plus, it’s highly customizable. You can choose from a wide array of colors and various styles of rafters and end cuts.
2. It’s Durable.
Aluminum is a popular choice with manufacturers of a wide array of products because it is both lightweight and strong. Perma-Wood is too. A Perma-Wood pergola won’t have any trouble withstanding Florida’s high winds, strong sun and steamy humidity. Unlike wood or vinyl, minimal maintenance is all that’s necessary to keep this kind of shade structure looking good.
3. It Never Needs Painting.
Wood requires regular repainting or treating and vinyl is prone to fading. In contrast, Perma-Wood is finished with the Aluma-shield paint system. It delivers long-term gloss retention and resists fading, chipping or cracking, so you’ll never need to break out the paintbrush.
Perma-Wood Patio Covers come in these amazing colors:
4. It Won’t Rot, Warp or Split.
Without substantial upkeep, wood doesn’t fare well against the elements. Heat and humidity will cause it to rot, warp, split and crack. Perma-Wood doesn’t have that problem. Wind, rain and strong sun won’t faze it, so you can spend less time working on your patio cover and more time relaxing underneath it.
5. It Resists Corrosion.
What about rust? Salt air and high humidity are notorious for fueling rust, but there’s no need to worry about corrosion if you have an Perma-Wood Pergola. Perma-Wood isn’t particularly susceptible to damage from water and resists corrosion well.
6. It Won’t Fall Victim to Termites.
Even the thought of termites is enough to make many homeowners shudder, and it’s with good reason. These destructive pests can literally eat a wooden structure from the inside out. Fortunately, your Perma-Wood patio cover won’t fall victim to termites or other wood-destroying insects. After all, it may look and feel like wood, but it’s made of aluminum.
7. It Keeps Your Patio Cooler.
Standard aluminum lattice patio covers help block the direct rays of the sun. However, they still absorb solar heat and can transfer it to the space below, making it uncomfortably toasty. Perma-Wood resists the transfer of heat, so your patio stays cooler and more comfortable.
If you’re looking for a roof for your patio, Perma-Wood patio covers offer the perfect blend of beauty, practicality and value. As you can tell, we are a huge fan of using Perma-Wood for patio covers and shade structures. Perma-Wood is a product we can stand behind because our customers absolutely love it.
Do you have questions about these popular patio shade covers? Are you ready to add one to your outdoor living space? Contact the experts at Dulando Screen & Awning today at 407-862-6060 to schedule your 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.
Jan 11, 2017 | Pergolas, Perma-Wood
A backyard pergola adds wonderful architectural accents to your landscape, and it’s affordable. Many homeowners use their pergola as a private getaway or an outdoor entertainment center. There are so many great reasons for building a backyard pergola. Like any home improvement project, there are several things to keep in mind before starting the process.
Building a Backyard Pergola: Six Pre-Planning Tips
Surprises can be fun, but you don’t want them popping up in the middle of your backyard project. If you’ve considered buying a kit or doing a DIY pergola, we’ve worked with those homeowners too. Our list outlines six tips for ensuring your outdoor pergola gets off to a perfect start.
1. Turn Ideas Into Blueprints
Before focusing on the details of your new backyard pergola, take a few steps back, and begin to picture what you’d like to build. This is a permanent addition to your property that increases its value, so partner with a reputable contractor. A professional makes it easier to translate your ideas into working blueprints.
2. Navigate Permits and Paperwork
Unless you’re planning a small structure, your backyard pergola needs permitting through your municipality’s building department. Different homeowners’ associations also enforce a variety of deed restrictions. Your contractor is an excellent resource for information about navigating permitting requirements and will either secure those permits for you or help you every step of the way.
3. Confirm Utility Layouts
As you decide on the ideal spot for building a backyard pergola, consider what might be buried underneath the ground. Confirm locations of electric, gas and water lines with the Florida page of the National Call 811 site. Before you start, knowing what’s under your land heads off potentially expensive problems.
4. Take a Good Look at the View
Do you want to enjoy summer shade without the scenery from a neighbor’s property? Are you partial to that spot under the oak tree even though it doesn’t face the pool? As you work with your contractor on overall pergola design, take a good look at the view before making a final decision about the location.
5. Choose the Right Materials
The building materials vary from inexpensive pressure-treated pine to high-end redwood and cedar when adding a pergola. Woods are naturally attractive, but aluminum and vinyl materials hold up much better in our Florida climate. We recommend Perma-Wood covers because it combines the good looks of wood with outstanding durability.
6. Make It Special
With an outdoor pergola, you create a quiet, personal space. If you enjoy entertaining, it becomes an extension of your hospitality. Whether you prefer trellised walls graced with vines or contemporary styling that complements the pool, let your pergola’s design reflect your backyard dreams. It’s your corner of the world, so make it unique.
Additional Reading: Building a Backyard Pergola
Planning the Perfect Start
Building a backyard pergola doesn’t have to be complicated. Our overview covers the basics, and we’re always here to answer your questions in detail. We bring over 50 years of experience to every job, so contact Dulando Screen & Awning at 407-862-6060 today. We’ll be happy to get your new pergola off to a perfect start.
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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Jun 29, 2016 | Pergolas, Perma-Wood
At its most basic, a pergola consists of support columns and some type of roofing. It seems like a fairly simple structure, and that apparent simplicity tempts a lot of homeowners to try their hand at building their pergola themselves, especially if they believe they’ll save money with a DIY pergola kit. While a do-it-yourself approach often seems cheaper, you may find that hiring a professional to build a pergola offers better value for your money.
Cost to Build a Pergola
DIY Pergola
How much does building a pergola cost? Whether you do it yourself or hire someone, that answer will vary depending on the size of the structure, the materials used and the features incorporated in its construction. If you’re doing it yourself, you can generally pick up a basic kit for around $1,500 or $2,000. Do you prefer to design your own? On average, the materials to build a wooden pergola from scratch will run around $3,000.
Of course, to calculate the true cost of building a pergola while doing it yourself, you’ll need to look beyond the initial price tag. Be sure to consider these factors:
- How much time will you need to invest to complete the project? While they may not cost you anything out of pocket, your time and labor have value.
- What about tools? Building a pergola, even a kit, requires more than materials. Do you have the necessary tools? If not, the cost of purchasing or renting them should be added to your project’s total price tag.
- What about safety? Construction can be a risky business, especially for amateurs. Do you have the knowledge needed to use tools safely? Are you physically capable of the work involved? Injuries can definitely be expensive, so be honest when assessing your abilities.
The Costs of Hiring a Pergola Contractor
Hiring a pergola contractor to build a pergola will likely cost you more out of pocket because you’ll be paying for materials and labor. However, you’re also getting knowledge, experience and skill, and that combination can make hiring a pro a smart value.
When you hire a reputable pergola builder, you can be sure that the final product will be of good quality. After all, their reputation depends on it. Professionals also understand what materials work best in your area, and they are conscious of factors like maintenance that homeowners don’t always think about at first. In addition, they can create custom designs that suit your home and your plans for using your pergola, and they’ll make sure that the work is completed in accordance with local building codes. This can be especially important if you’re constructing a pergola attached to the house or adding electrical features.
Additional Reading: Build a Pergola
At Dulando Screen and Awning, we enjoy using our expertise to construct custom pergolas. As part of our commitment to quality, we use Perma-Wood, a durable, low-maintenance engineered material; it looks like wood, but it will not crack, peel, warp or rot and never requires painting. If you’re ready to build a pergola, contact us today at 407-862-6060 to schedule a free consultation.
Mar 21, 2014 | Pergolas, Perma-Wood
Building a Pergola is a wonderful option to add architectural interest to your landscape and outdoor living areas. A favorite of garden and landscape designers, pergolas add interest and value to your garden space and backyard.
Reasons to add a pergola to your property.
- Do you have a detached garage on your home? Building a pergola can visually connect the garage to the house in an attractive manner.
- Another option is to use a pergola along the front façade or walkways of your home to add architectural dimension and character.
- Of course, there is the ever-favorite backyard pergola to just create additional shade to relax and enjoy the Florida weather.
Typically constructed out of wood, steel, Perma-Wood® or even a combination of these materials, pergolas are built to expand a living area, to form a shaded walkway or simply as a garden feature. Narrow, linear structures featuring an overhead trellis supported by upright supports are the most favored type of pergolas for backyards and patios.
Classic in design, the pergola structure has remained the same for thousands of years, and for good reason! In addition to adding value to the property, these landscape structures are a great way to instantly beautify and add shaded seating areas to any garden, home or even commercial property space.
Building a Pergola FAQs
Which Materials Are The Best For My Home And Project?
Dulando Screen & Awning works with only quality materials to ensure you can enjoy your custom pergola for years to come with little or no maintenance. With the embossed surface of an Permawood® Shade Structure, you’ll enjoy the beauty of a richly textured wood grain finish — with a fraction of the maintenance and upkeep.
Unlike wood, Perma-Wood® Shade Structures won’t crack, peel, warp, or rot. It is also termite-proof, won’t burn, and never needs painting. You’ll appreciate the many benefits Perma-Wood covers offer:
- Heavy header-beam construction
- Richly textured wood finish
- Many popular designer colors
- Durable Aluma-Shield paint system with TEFLON®
- Fasteners in matching colors
- Four style options for beam and rafter end cuts
How Does The Permitting Process Work When Building A Pergola?
Depending on the size of the pergola, yes, permitting is required. Dulando Screen & Awning can help with the permitting process and provide building plans and engineered drawings. Having a trustworthy professional working for you eliminates worry and gives you peace of mind that the job will get done right.
My Neighborhood Is Part Of An HOA, Can I Build A Pergola?
We definitely recommend checking with your HOA. If you have additional questions, please call us today. We are happy to help you with all of these questions and the details that go with building the pergola or outdoor structure you desire.
Will My Pergola Match The Design Of My Home Or Can It Be Customized For A Special Look?
You can have your pergola either match the architectural design and styling to complement your home or create a new special design of the ambiance you’ve dreamed of for your home and outdoor entertaining. Either way, the goal is to create a new outdoor living space for year round entertaining and relaxation.
How To Choose Plants And Greenery For A Pergola
Pergolas look picture-perfect when adorned by beautiful climbing plants, providing additional shade in the structure and still allowing the blue sky to peek through. Additionally, pergolas offer vertical interest outside and create an inviting visual link between your home and the garden.
Climbing plants often called ‘climbers’ offer not only floral fragrances and splashes of color, but they also help provide dappled shade and privacy for the seating area in your pergola.
Chose suitable plants such as morning glory, passionflower, bougainvillea or trumpet vine. Keep in mind, if they grow too wild, the form and design of the pergola framework is lost, spoiling the effect. Choosing a single climber is one of the most effective ways to cover a pergola in Central Florida.
Another way to add greenery and flowers to your new pergola – hanging baskets of vines and flowers. These offer much of the same decorative benefits of climbing vines, but with less maintenance to upkeep the look.
In Addition To Pergolas, We Also Offer The Following Products:
Since 1968, our goal is to make your backyard dream a reality by turning your outdoor space into a paradise for you and your family. Our team of professionals will work with you on a design to best suit your needs and stay within your budget.
Contact us for a free in-home consultation so we can provide you with a variety of plans and ideas to create your perfect outdoor living environment.Save
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