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 Design and Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space With a Patio Cover

April 4, 2025
Thinking about upgrading your outdoor living space? A patio cover might be just what you need. Not only does it extend your usable space, but it also adds value to your home. Here’s what you should know before making this fantastic investment. Benefits of Adding a Patio Cover: Protection from the Elements - A patio cover provides essential protection from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight. This means you can enjoy your patio year-round without worrying about the weather. Plus, your plants and furniture will be shielded from extreme conditions, ensuring they last longer. Increased Home Value - Installing a patio cover significantly boosts your home's value. It offers an attractive feature for potential buyers and creates a versatile space for barbecues, gatherings, and relaxation. Even if selling isn't on your radar, this upgrade enhances your home’s resale value, making it easier to sell in the future. Reduced Maintenance - A patio cover helps keep your deck or patio clean by preventing dirt and debris from accumulating. With less cleaning required, you’ll spend more time enjoying your space rather than maintaining it. Opt for an aluminum patio cover, and you can forget about regular painting or staining—aluminum resists fading and requires minimal upkeep. Patio covers offer numerous benefits, from weather protection to increased home value and reduced maintenance. With various styles and budgets available, you’re sure to find the perfect solution for your outdoor space needs. Enjoy more time relaxing outdoors and less time on upkeep tasks.  Ready to enhance your outdoor living? Explore your options and invest in a patio cover today!

Signs to Keep a Look Out for to Know When It’s Time for a Deck Replacement

By Sergio Mota • March 28, 2025
As your deck ages, it's important to remain aware of the warning signs that could signify an imminent need for a replacement. Think rotting wood and mold growth, structural cracks in joists or posts—all potential health and safety risks you'll want to avoid! Refreshing yourself on these indicators can help maintain the integrity of your home. Keep vigilant watch over those tell-tale signs - they may be difficult to spot but knowing them will keep both you and your structure safe.  Signs That Your Deck Needs Replacing Visible Rot or Mold - If you notice any soft, spongy spots on the wood or see discoloration from mold or mildew, then it’s likely that those areas have begun to rot due to prolonged exposure to moisture and heat. If left unchecked, this issue could cause serious structural damage over time. Structural Cracks or Splitting - As wooden decks age, they can become weak and brittle due to weathering and other environmental factors. As such, if you start noticing cracks in the wood that weren't there before or splitting along the boards, then it may be time for a replacement deck as these issues can cause further damage down the line if they aren't addressed immediately. Warping - Warping is one of the most obvious signs that your deck needs replacing—and unfortunately also one of the most common ones too! Warping occurs when boards become misshapen due to exposure to sunlight and water over time; this issue can cause uneven footing on your deck which could potentially lead to accidents like falls or slips if someone steps in an area with more give than normal. Inadequate Support - The support beams underneath your deck are essential in ensuring its structural integrity; without them, your deck could collapse under its own weight! If you notice any sagging spots on your floorboards or hear creaking noises when walking across them (especially during periods of high humidity), then these are both clear indicators that either additional support beams need to be added or that an entire replacement may be necessary instead depending on how bad the situation is. When it comes to home improvement, knowing the warning signs of when a deck is in need of replacing can be essential for both keeping your family safe and avoiding costly repairs later on. Put simply: investing now in a new, high-quality deck from us here at S&S Design Build LLC could save you money down the road! Don't hesitate to contact our team today—we promise that our decks are made with lasting quality, so you won’t have to worry about them again any time soon.