Are you unable to relax and get comfortable on your patio because the sun is too hot? Adding shade is one of the best investments you can make in your outdoor space. In Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, NE, where summer sun and sudden storms are common, a reliable backyard shelter is all the more important. Two options we often find homeowners comparing are a patio cover and retractable awning. While both can over respite from the sun, the two vary considerably in important factors like durability and storm resistance. Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between a patio cover vs retractable awning so you can decide which is best for you.
What Is a Retractable Awning?
A retractable awning is a fabric canopy attached to the side of your house that can extend outward or retract back in with the push of a button or manual crank. They are typically made from weather-resistant fabric like acrylic, polyester, or canvas, stretched over a lightweight aluminum frame. Most are wall-mounted, but some models can be freestanding.
Retractable awnings can be good for offering adjustable shade and can be tucked away when not needed, which can help protect the material from wear and tear caused by the elements.
What Is a Patio Cover?
A patio cover is a permanent structure, often made of aluminum, wood, or composite materials, that provides continuous shade and protection over your outdoor living area. Patio covers are usually attached to the home and supported by posts or columns, creating a solid roof that shields your patio from sun, rain, and even snow. This makes it more usable and comfortable year round.
What Is the Appeal of a Retractable Awning vs a Patio Cover?
Retractable awnings offer flexibility. If you want sun on cool mornings but shade in the heat of the afternoon, you can extend or retract the awning at your convenience. They also tend to be less expensive upfront and are a good option for those who want occasional, temporary coverage without the commitment of a full structure.
On the other hand, a patio cover offers year-round protection. Unlike an awning, it’s always there to provide shelter, regardless of the weather. A patio cover becomes a true extension of your home, creating a more permanent and functional outdoor space. It allows outdoor furniture to stay outside because it’s protected from potential rainfall, bird droppings, or other debris that can fall on and potentially damage the furniture.
What Are the Advantages of a Patio Cover vs A Retractable Awning?
Patio Covers Are More Durable Than A Retractable Awning
Patio covers are built to last. Made with sturdy materials like aluminum, steel, or wood, they can withstand harsh weather conditions far better than fabric awnings, which can rip, fade, or malfunction over time. Even in perfect conditions where you maintain your awning and remember to retract it when not in use, it will need to be replaced within 10 years. An aluminum patio cover, on the other hand, can easily last 30 years with little-to-no maintenance.
Patio Covers Are More Customizable
Patio covers can be fully customized to match the architecture and style of your home. Choose from different roofing styles, colors, materials, and decorative options to create a seamless look.
Patio Covers Are Much Lower Maintenance That A Retractable Awning
Retractable awnings require regular cleaning, occasional motor repairs, and fabric replacement. Patio covers, on the other hand, are designed to be low-maintenance, especially when made from weather-resistant materials.
Better Protection From the Elements Than A Retractable Awning
Because patio covers are permanent structures with solid roofs, they offer much better protection from rain, wind, hail, and even snow. This allows you to use your patio more often throughout the year.
More Aesthetically Pleasing
A well-designed patio cover can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and outdoor living experience. It adds an element of luxury and permanence that a retractable awning simply can’t match.
What Materials Are Best for a Patio Cover?
Patio covers are typically made from wood, aluminum, vinyl, or steel, but not all materials are created equal. Wood looks great but needs constant maintenance. Vinyl is affordable but can look cheap over time. Steel is strong but heavy and prone to rust.
ABC Seamless of Nebraska exclusively uses TEMO patio covers because they offer the best of everything: strength, beauty, and low maintenance. TEMO covers are crafted from heavy-duty extruded aluminum that won’t warp, rot, rust, or peel. They outperform traditional wood or standard aluminum options. Their finishes stay vibrant and scratch-free for years, and they’re backed by a limited lifetime transferable warranty.
Furthermore, TEMO patio covers come in a wide variety of styles. One of our most popular styles is the Sunlight Pavillion. This version features a unique polycarbonate roof that allows daylight to pass through–you can enjoy natural light without the scorching heat of direct sun!
If you want a patio cover built to last and designed to impress, TEMO from ABC Seamless of Nebraska is the clear winner.
This Sunlight Pavillion by TEMO has been further enhanced with a wall system for added comfort and privacy.
Patio Covers Omaha, NE, Lincoln, and Grand Island
Transform your backyard into the perfect outdoor living space with a beautiful, durable patio cover from ABC Seamless of Nebraska. We proudly install premium TEMO products to ensure you get the highest quality protection, style, and value for your home. Serving Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, our expert team is ready to bring your vision to life. Contact ABC Seamless of Nebraska today for a free quote and discover how easy it is to upgrade your outdoor space.
