You’ve probably seen how expensive it is to add a covered patio. But I’m here to tell you that with a little hard work and some smart shopping, you can build a covered patio on the cheap.
You just need to know what materials are best suited for your project and how much they’ll cost. So let’s get started!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Building a covered patio can be an affordable project. |
| Using corrugated metal roofing can be a cost-effective option. |
| Proper planning and measurements are crucial for a successful build. |
| Adding curtains or screens can provide privacy and shade. |
| Consider incorporating lighting fixtures for ambiance and functionality. |
| Utilizing salvaged materials can help reduce costs. |
| A solid foundation is essential for stability and durability. |
| Regular maintenance and inspections can prolong the lifespan of the patio cover. |
| Applying weather-resistant sealants or coatings can protect the materials. |
| Personalize your covered patio with furniture and decor to create an inviting space. |
The Roof
Roofing Materials
There are many different choices when it comes to roofing materials, but you should stick with the ones that are durable and easy to maintain.
For example, your roof might have asphalt shingles or metal sheets installed over it. Some roofs also have wooden shingles or tiles.
The most important thing is that they shouldn’t leak as they can cause damage to the interior of your home if water gets inside through them.
Roofing Costs
The cost of a new roof depends on several factors: size; shape; type; style; climate zones where it will be used etcetera
When it comes to staining and sealing patio furniture, proper techniques and products can make all the difference. Our comprehensive guide on how to stain and seal patio furniture provides valuable tips and step-by-step instructions to help you protect and enhance the beauty of your outdoor furniture.
The Walls
You can choose from a wide range of materials for the walls. The most common options are:
- Wood
- Bricks
- Cement
The Floor
You’ll want to use a flooring material that is waterproof and easy to clean, durable and can withstand the elements.
You may also want to consider whether or not you want your flooring material to be removable so you can store it during the winter months.
In choosing what type of patio cover will work best for your specific situation, it’s important to consider how much shade your patio will need.
For example, if you live in an area with large amounts of natural shade from trees and shrubs but little sun exposure then using a lattice-type construction might be better than using vinyl panels or screens.
It all depends on what level of shade coverage you’re looking for as well as how much time and energy investment is required in maintaining those coverings over time.
Looking for creative ways to light up your patio without string lights? Our article on alternative patio lighting ideas offers innovative solutions and inspiring tips to create a captivating ambiance for your outdoor space.
The Lighting
Use dimmer switches to control the lighting.
You can opt for a dimmer switch that will allow you to adjust the brightness of your patio lights and even turn them off altogether.
This is especially useful if you want a romantic atmosphere or just want some quiet time on the porch, but don’t want to completely lose sight of what’s going on inside your home.
Dimmer switches are also great for parties and gatherings so everyone can enjoy themselves without having their view blocked by bright lights.
Wire ceiling fans with three-way switches, not two-way switches (unless you have four wires).
Two way wiring is actually very easy: You simply connect one wire from each side of the existing circuit breaker box together at both ends no matter where they’re located in relation to where they’ll be used
And then attach it directly onto whichever fixture needs power first before connecting another wire running down towards an outlet location where this particular light will live within proximity distance.
The Overhead Fans
You can install an overhead fan on your covered patio with the help of a contractor.
Make sure it is a ceiling fan and not just a regular box fan. A good quality ceiling fan will have more power and last longer than other types of fans.
Make sure it has a light fixture attached to it so that you can get both cooling and illumination from one unit, saving space in your room.
Check that the pull chain switch is large enough for easy operation if needed by someone with limited hand strength or dexterity issues (such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome).
If this isn’t possible then consider installing another switch with larger buttons on either side of where you sit so you don’t have to reach behind yourself every time before turning off or turning up/down lights while working under them
The Ceiling Fans
How to install a ceiling fan
Ceiling fans are great for adding some extra cooling in the summer, but you need to know how to install one properly.
A ceiling fan can be installed by someone who is handy and has some basic knowledge about electricity.
Most people can do this job with no previous experience, but if you have any doubts or concerns about installing a ceiling fan on your own it may be best to hire a professional electrician or contractor.
However, if you feel comfortable doing it yourself then follow these steps:
Make sure that the power switch is turned off before starting any work with electricity!
Remove any existing light fixtures from their housings first. Use your hands or pliers when removing them so as not damage any wires inside those housings (you’ll want those working later).
Check that there aren’t any nails sticking out of surfaces where they could potentially puncture insulation surrounding wires too!
Beat the heat and enjoy your patio to the fullest with a patio mister. Discover the easiest way to set up a patio mister system with our detailed guide on how to set up a patio mister, and transform your outdoor oasis into a cool and refreshing retreat.
The Furniture
The patio furniture is also an important part of your covered patio design. You can buy pre-made furniture, or you can build your own.
Or, if you have friends or family members with extra outdoor furniture that they don’t use anymore, you might be able to borrow it for a while.
Another option is to purchase used patio chairs and tables at yard sales or thrift stores.
| Furniture Type | Material | Style | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leather Sofa | Leather | Classic, Modern | High |
| Fabric Sofa | Fabric | Traditional, Contemporary | Moderate |
| Sectional Sofa | Fabric or Leather | Modern, Modular | Varies |
| Dining Table | Wood, Glass, Metal | Rustic, Modern, Traditional | Moderate to High |
| Coffee Table | Wood, Glass, Metal | Modern, Industrial | Low to Moderate |
| Bedroom Set | Wood | Classic, Contemporary | High |
| Accent Chair | Fabric, Leather | Contemporary, Mid-Century | Moderate |
| Outdoor Patio Set | Wicker, Metal, Wood | Traditional, Modern, Coastal | Moderate to High |
| Office Desk | Wood, Metal | Modern, Industrial | Moderate |
| TV Stand | Wood, Metal | Modern, Farmhouse | Low to Moderate |
The Curtains And Drapes
Adding curtains and drapes is a great way to add privacy, while making your patio look good. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make a cheap covered patio, then consider adding some curtains or drapes.
They can be decorative as well as functional, so they’re not just there to keep out prying eyes they’ll also help make your patio look great!
Make Sliding Glass Doors
First, you need to decide how big you want the door. The easiest and cheapest way to do this is to measure the opening of your patio and add the width of two panels on either side.
This will give you a rough idea about how many panels will fit into your space, but before purchasing them, measure again to make sure that all four pieces are going to fit into that area without any gaps or overlaps.
Remember: if there’s even one small gap between each panel and its frame, it could allow rainwater and bugs through!
Once you know how much material you need, buy pre-made sliders at home improvement stores (or online) so they’re ready when it comes time for installation.
You can also make these yourself using some simple tools like a jigsaw- which will save money in both materials and labor costs since few people have experience cutting wooden doors with power saws anyway!
After building all four panes together with pegs on each side as well as around their edge so they don’t move while being used.
Install them into place using screws placed evenly throughout every corner piece – including above where hinges would normally sit down below where handles would usually go up near corners without hinges at all times during assembly process .
Installing a patio door on concrete can be a challenging task, but with our step-by-step instructions, it becomes much easier. Check out our guide on how to install a patio door on concrete to ensure a smooth and secure installation process.
Put Up Fireplaces
The fireplace is another place you should definitely consider. It can be built out of brick or stone, metal, wood and concrete.
Fireplaces made out of glass are also a good choice for some people who want a modern touch to their patio design.
| Fireplace Type | Fuel Type | Installation | Heat Output | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Wood-Burning Fireplace | Wood | Requires chimney | High | Varies |
| Gas Fireplace Insert | Natural gas or propane | Insert into existing fireplace | Variable | Varies |
| Electric Fireplace | Electricity | Plug-and-play installation | Low to moderate | Varies |
| Ethanol Fireplace | Ethanol fuel | No installation required | Low | Varies |
| Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace | Electricity | Mounts on the wall | Low to moderate | Varies |
| Freestanding Electric Fireplace | Electricity | Standalone unit | Low to moderate | Varies |
| Ventless Gas Fireplace | Natural gas or propane | No chimney required | Variable | Varies |
Kitchen And Washroom Set-Up
The kitchen and the washroom are the must-haves in your covered patio. A sink and toilet are required to function properly, so make sure to keep them away from each other.
The sink should be at least 3 feet away from the washroom, while it should be at least 3 feet away from the stovetop as well.
Add A Fireplace
Add a fireplace. The best place to put your fireplace is on the side of your patio facing south, or a corner where two walls meet. I recommend using bricks or stone for the exterior and interior of your fireplace, as this material will provide an additional layer of protection for the wood that you use to build it.
Build one. To build a fireplace, you’ll need some tools you could buy them all at once or borrow them from someone who already has them (which may save you money). Here are some things to have:
- A drill with bits that fit into 5/8-inch holes, and an extension handle if possible (to reach higher)
- Hammer
- Leveler (this helps make sure that everything is straight)
| Fireplace Type | Fuel Type | Installation | Heat Output | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood-Burning Fireplace | Wood | Requires chimney | High | Moderate |
| Gas Fireplace | Natural gas or propane | Vent or ventless options | Variable | Moderate to high |
| Electric Fireplace | Electricity | Plug-and-play installation | Low to moderate | Low to moderate |
| Ethanol Fireplace | Ethanol fuel | No installation required | Low | Moderate |
| Gel Fireplace | Gel fuel | No installation required | Low to moderate | Low |
A Hot Tub Or A Jacuzzi
If you want to be able to relax while outside and soak in some hot water, then you need a hot tub or jacuzzi.
The installation process will vary depending on the type of tub that you purchase. However, most of them are fairly easy to install. In order for the water in your hot tub or jacuzzi to stay warm, make sure that it is properly insulated and has enough heaters inside of it.
This will ensure that no matter how cold it is outside, your body will still be warm while relaxing in this spa-like feature!
Create shade and protection for your covered patio with the right patio umbrella. Discover the average height of a patio umbrella and find the perfect fit for your space with our informative article on how tall is the average patio umbrella. Explore different options and make an informed choice for your outdoor relaxation.
An Outdoor Shower
An outdoor shower can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, save water and relax. You’ll be able to wash off after working out or playing outside without having to go inside first.
It’s also a great way for kids who don’t like baths or showers inside because it gives them privacy and allows them some independence as well as being fun!
It’s also a good idea if you plan on spending any time at all in your yard during the summer months because it will keep everyone comfortable while they are outside enjoying themselves.
You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars building one yourself; there are plenty of different options available online at reasonable prices which will make building this project much easier than expected while still keeping it cheap enough that anyone could afford one if they wanted one badly enough!
Conclusion
It’s a good idea to get in touch with a professional builder to help you design and build your patio.
This will save you time and money in the long run, as well as give you peace of mind that your project will be completed properly.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources for further reading on patio cover ideas and DIY projects:
Inexpensive Cheap Patio Cover Ideas: Explore budget-friendly options and creative ideas for covering your patio while keeping costs down.
DIY Patio Cover Ideas: Discover DIY patio cover projects that you can tackle to add shade and style to your outdoor space.
DIY Aluminum Patio Cover: Learn how to build your own aluminum patio cover with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.
FAQs
How can I choose the right material for my patio cover?
Different materials offer various benefits for patio covers. Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal when choosing materials like wood, aluminum, or fabric for your patio cover.
What permits or regulations do I need to consider when building a patio cover?
Before constructing a patio cover, it’s important to check local building codes and regulations. Depending on your area, you may need to obtain permits or adhere to specific guidelines for the construction of a patio cover.
Can I install a patio cover on my existing patio?
Yes, you can install a patio cover on an existing patio. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the patio structure is sturdy enough to support the additional weight of the cover. Consulting a professional or structural engineer is recommended to assess the feasibility and safety of the installation.
How do I maintain and clean my patio cover?
Maintenance and cleaning requirements vary depending on the material of your patio cover. Regular cleaning, such as removing debris and dirt, is generally necessary. Wood covers may require sealing or staining periodically, while aluminum or fabric covers may need gentle cleaning with mild soap and water.
Are there any design considerations for a patio cover?
Design considerations for a patio cover include the size, shape, and style that complement your home and outdoor space. You can also consider additional features such as lighting, fans, or retractable options to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your patio cover.
I am Hellen James, a professional handywoman with expertise in improving home and garden spaces by using pergolas, gazebos, and tents.
