MATERIAL OPTIONS FOR YOUR PATIO COVER: COMPARING WOOD, ALUMINUM, AND PVC

Admin • January 18, 2023

When it comes to designing and building a patio cover, one of the most important decisions you'll have to make is the type of material to use. There are several options available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we'll compare three of the most popular materials for patio covers: wood, aluminum, and PVC.


Wood is a classic for patio covers and decks. It's a natural and renewable resource and it can be stained or painted to match the style of your home. Wood also offers a warm and inviting feel, making it a great option for outdoor living spaces. However, wood requires regular maintenance to protect it from moisture, mildew, and rot. It can also be prone to warping, cracking, and splitting over time.


Aluminum is a lightweight and durable option for patio covers. It's rust-resistant and requires very little maintenance. It's also a good thermal insulator, which can help to keep your patio cooler in the summer. However, aluminum can be more expensive than wood and it's not as strong. It also can't be painted and can have a limited range of colors.


PVC is a newer option for patio covers that has gained popularity in recent years. PVC decking is resistant to moisture, mildew, and rot, making it a great choice for damp climates. It's also easy to clean and requires very little upkeep. PVC is also UV resistant and won't fade over time. However, PVC can be more expensive than wood or aluminum.


When choosing a material for your patio cover, it's important to consider factors such as your budget, the style of your home, and the climate in your area. At S&S Design Build, we have experience working with all three materials and can help you make the best choice for your project. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start designing your custom patio cover.

Let S&S Design Build Help You Create Your Next Backyard Oasis!

September 11, 2026
Let S&S Design Build help you create your next backyard oasis! For this project the client had an existing covered porch and an existing patio. We improved the area by adding a screen enclosure and door on the front side and a motorized screen on the side. With the motorized unit the client has the option to open and close the screen at the push of a button. They now can enjoy the fall TN nights completely enclosed safe from pest or semi-enclosed allowing a full breeze of the fresh fall weather. Adjacent to the enclosed covered area we installed a patio cover where they are safe from rain and harmful sun rays, while providing cover for their grill and other outdoor patio furniture. This client is now ready to take on all the seasons in style and comfort! This can be you too! At S&S Design Build we are here to help you design your next outdoor oasis whether it's a installing a patio cover, screen enclosure, sunroom or a deck. Give us a call and we will provide a FREE estimate!

From a Deck to a Beautiful Concrete Patio: A Complete Outdoor Transformation

September 4, 2026
At S&S Design Build, LLC, we love transforming outdated and underused outdoor spaces into areas that homeowners can enjoy for years to come. This recent project is a great example of how replacing an aging deck can completely change the look, functionality, and usability of a backyard. A Fresh Start for an Aging Deck The existing deck had seen better days. It was weathered, dated, and no longer provided the clean, inviting outdoor space the homeowners wanted. Instead of simply repairing the old deck, we removed the existing structure and created a brand-new concrete patio pad with a beautiful brush finish , giving the space a clean and durable foundation for outdoor entertaining. A Beautiful Concrete Patio Transformation The new concrete patio provides a significant upgrade in both appearance and functionality. The brush-finished concrete surface adds subtle texture while creating a practical, low-maintenance outdoor surface. We also incorporated steps and a new railing , creating a safe and finished transition from the elevated portion of the home down to the new patio area. The result is a simple but dramatic transformation—from a rundown deck to a clean, welcoming patio that gives the homeowners a comfortable place to enjoy their backyard.  Built for Enjoying the Outdoors The new patio creates the perfect space for outdoor dining, morning coffee, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing outside. The homeowners can now take advantage of their backyard without dealing with the maintenance and appearance issues that came with the old deck. At S&S Design Build, LLC , we can help you reimagine your outdoor space, whether you're looking to replace an aging deck, install a new concrete patio, add steps and railings, or create a complete outdoor living area. Ready to transform your backyard? Contact S&S Design Build, LLC to discuss your next outdoor project.