Living in Kamloops and the rest of Interior BC means your deck sees just about everything the weather can throw at it: snow and ice in the winter, hot sun in July, and plenty of weather in between. A patio cover is one of the simplest ways to make that outdoor space more comfortable and more durable, without turning it into a full enclosure.
In this guide, we’ll look at why patio covers work so well in our climate, and how they can help you enjoy your deck in every season. Plus, we’ll outline some key things you should think about before getting started on installation. Keep reading!
Why Patio Covers are Ideal for Interior BC
While many homeowners think patio covers are just for sun protection, the truth is that these home additions have benefits that show up in every season. In winter, they’ll help keep snow off your deck, which means less shovelling and fewer chances of rotted decking. Then, during spring and fall shoulder seasons, they offer protection from the elements and a little added insulation when needed. Pair your patio cover with other weather-resistant materials, like vinyl decking or aluminum deck privacy screens, and you’ll create the perfect four-season outdoor living space!
Interested in learning more about the benefits of patio covers? Read our previous blog post for five reasons why patio covers are worth it for Kamloops homes.
Key Considerations Before Installing a Patio Cover
If you are considering purchasing a patio cover, you probably have some questions about materials, sizing, and more. Let’s review these details below!
Materials: Wood vs Aluminum vs Vinyl
Many homeowners wonder whether wood, vinyl, or aluminum patio covers are better. Here’s the truth: each material comes with pros and cons.
For BC homeowners, aluminum patio covers are often the best choice for a “set it and forget it” renovation. This material is extremely durable and relatively maintenance-free, allowing your patio cover to last up to 30 years with minimal upkeep. Plus, installation is often relatively simple for aluminum patio covers, making it a quick and easy exterior renovation for busy homeowners.
In some cases, it might be worth exploring other options like wood or vinyl. Wood can be a great fit if you love a natural, cottage-style look and don’t mind doing regular maintenance. Vinyl can offer a clean, low-maintenance appearance, but colour and style options are more limited, and it may not handle long-term UV exposure as well as aluminum.
Sizing
Size is another important consideration. Start with this simple question: how do you want to use the space under your patio cover? If you simply want a dry spot by the back door with room for some basic seating, a smaller cover over a portion of the deck can work well. Typically, this means covering only 15% of your total yard space, so you still have open sky and lawn to enjoy.
On the other hand, if you’re picturing a full outdoor living area complete with a dining table, lounge seating, and a hot tub, you’ll want to size up so everything fits comfortably under your patio cover. However, as you scale up, remember that larger patio covers might come with additional structural and installation requirements. At Dekstar, we stock patio covers in a variety of sizes. If you opt for a larger option, we’ll walk you through everything that’s required and arrange installation with an expert contractor in the area.
Permits and Code Considerations
While patio covers might feel like an easy exterior renovation, they are often subject to local permit and building code requirements. If you have questions about whether your project needs a permit or where to start, we’re happy to help! Simply ask us about your project, and we can point you in the right direction.
Ready to Get Started?
When it’s time to take the next step, the Dekstar Exterior Solutions team is ready to help. Contact us for more information about our products and to arrange your patio cover installation today.
Still have questions that we didn’t cover in this blog post? We’d love to hear from you! Give us a call or submit a request through our website.
