If you're looking to add style and elegance to your backyard, while also adding a piece that has practical purposes, a wooden patio cover may be exactly what you need.

Why Wood?

When considering wood for a patio cover, many homeowners wonder over the lifespan, quality, and overall performance. If wood is more prone to rot than plastic or aluminum products, why go through all of the trouble to care for and maintain them?

Wood is a natural beauty, something neither plastic or aluminum patio covers can boast. While they require regular maintenance, they can also be treated and painted in many different ways, allowing you some versatility. If you'll be selling or refinancing your home in the near future, it's also smart to consider its market value over that of plastic and aluminum.

Lifespan and Choosing the Right Wood for the Job

The lifespan of your patio cover will depend on a number of things, but the biggest determining factor will be the wood materials that are chosen for the job.

If you're concerned about rot, two rot-resistant woods include redwood and cedar. If you're working with a contractor, it's best to ask them their opinion on the different types of wood, and how it might fare in your area's environment and climate. Teak is another option—while expensive, it is also highly-resistant to many things that can cause issues with your patio cover, such as rot, warping, and termites.

Caring For Your Wood Patio Cover

If you've decided that a wood cover is right for your patio, there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind about its care.

Wood that is exposed to the elements will fare best if it's regularly stained and sealed. This will reduce the risk of rot, as well as the bleaching and cracking that can occur as a result of exposure to the elements. Another thing to keep in mind is termite control. With regular maintenance and upkeep, you can keep your wood patio cover like new for years to come.

Wood patio covers can be a great addition to your backyard. Wood is a versatile material that allows for different stains, treatments, and colors. If you're still unsure about choosing wood over aluminum or plastic, speak with your contractor or awning provider like Allied Awning. They can help you to better understand the lifespan of a wood cover, as well as the pros and cons associated with wood and the other two material options. 

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