Retractable patio covers give you shade and shelter when you want them and open sky when you do not. You extend the cover on a hot or drizzly day and roll it back on a mild one, often at the touch of a button. For homeowners who want more use out of a patio without building a permanent roof over it, that flexibility is the main appeal.
Here is what a retractable cover can do for your outdoor space and what to think about when choosing one.
Benefits of Retractable Patio Covers
More days outside
A patio in full sun can be too hot to sit on for much of the summer, and a forecast of showers can cancel plans. A retractable cover gives you adjustable protection from both. From sunny summer afternoons to crisp autumn evenings, you decide how much cover you want, so the patio gets used over a longer stretch of the year.
An extension of your living space
A patio is an extension of your home. With a cover overhead it works more like an extra room, whether you are hosting a barbecue with friends or reading a book on your own. Furniture and cushions under the cover are also less exposed to sun and passing rain.
Comfort and energy efficiency
A cover blocks direct sunlight, which keeps the patio cooler on the hottest days. It also shades the adjacent windows and patio doors, so less heat enters the house. That can contribute to lower indoor temperatures and less need for air conditioning.
A better-looking patio
Retractable covers come in a range of designs, materials and colors, so they can be chosen to complement your home’s architecture. A well-matched cover improves the look of the patio and adds to curb appeal.
Design Options: Fabric Awning or Fixed Cover?
The most common retractable patio cover for a home is a fabric retractable awning. It mounts to the house, extends over the patio or deck, and rolls back against the wall when it is not needed. It can be operated by hand crank or by a motor.
If you would rather have cover in place all the time, a fixed aluminum or fabric patio cover is the alternative. It does not retract, but it gives you a permanent roof over the space in every season.
When you compare the two, think about how you use the patio. If you enjoy sitting in the sun on cool days and looking at the stars at night, retractable makes sense. If you want outdoor furniture and a grill sheltered around the clock, a fixed cover may be the better fit.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Measure the area you want to shade, including where the table and chairs actually sit. Note which direction the patio faces and when the sun hits it. Look at the wall where the cover would mount, since windows, doors and light fixtures affect placement. Then choose a fabric or finish that suits the color of your siding and trim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a retractable patio cover be used in the rain?
Yes, a retractable cover can keep you dry in ordinary rain. It should be retracted in high wind and should not be left open under snow or ice.
Are retractable patio covers motorized?
They can be. Motorized models extend and retract at the touch of a button, and manual hand-crank models are also available.
Will a patio cover make my house cooler?
It can help. By shading nearby windows and doors, a cover reduces the direct sunlight that heats the rooms behind them.
Find the Right Cover for Your Patio
Aladdin is a family-owned company in Wallingford that installs retractable awnings and patio covers at homes across Connecticut. If you would like help deciding between a retractable and a fixed cover, contact us or call (203) 776-9996 to discuss your patio and get an estimate.