Summer is ablaze in Southern California after a spring filled with consecutive weeks of cloudy days and cool weather. Though the recently soaring temperatures and sunny skies are a welcome change, homeowners still need relief from the heat to enjoy spending time outside.
An easy solution? Build a pergola. Patio covers and pergolas provide instant shade, which make all the difference when relaxing outdoors. In addition to the heat relief installing one provides, it also immediately transforms the usability of the backyard. A drab concrete slab gets an automatic facelift with a patio cover. Then, add a few loungers or a hammock and change a barren backyard into an at-home paradise.
With several shade options and design ideas to choose from, you can customize your ideal outdoor setup and keep cool all season long.
LINX pergola system
For DIYers who want a straightforward approach, LINX patio cover kits are designed to be installed in as little as an hour. The Lincoln Log-inspired hardware simplifies construction with easy-to-fit connectors and joints to make assembly a snap. With pre-cut 4×4 or 6×6 posts, you can provide instant shade for your back patio in no time.
Aluminum shade structures
Aluminum shade structures are another go-to patio cover option. There are a range of styles and colors to choose from to create your desired aesthetic. The California is a solid roof providing complete sun coverage, while a design like the Phoenix Lattice invites in more sun and air flow. Additionally, you can customize the rafters, posts, and lattice spacing, all of which change the whole look and feel of the final result.
Decorative screen panels
Not all patios are fully situated in the sun and may need less shade than other homes. A popular idea is to use decorative screen panels and/or screen cloths to block sunlight from streaming in from the side. These can cool down the area, while also adding a decorative touch to your backyard setup.
To spruce up the look even further, consider adding Wild Hog panels with a bar top or a pre-made garden box. Then, plant ivy to climb up the patio cover to create additional shade and the ambiance of a private retreat.
Infinity canopies
Like the aluminum shade structures and decorative screen panels, the Infinity Canopy system can be modified to meet your specific design and shade needs. It’s the first and only slide-on-wire canopy system that makes your pergola versatile for adjusting sun coverage as needed throughout the day. Though a little pricier and more complex than the other pergola options, it’s a worthy investment which can instantly enhance the outdoor space.
Make the most of summertime by taking your entertainment and relaxation time outdoors. A previously unused space can become your new favorite spot with the addition of a patio cover to keep you cooler and more comfortable during the hot, sunny days.
To get inspiration for your next backyard project or to pick up a patio cover kit and get started this weekend, stop by your local J&W Lumber store today.