Patios and Garden Shelter

Picture an average garden patio. What features do you think maximize its use and utility? Usually, it’s the addition of some sort of roof shelter. We get inquiries about these the most, probably because folks are trying to find ways to modify their patio shelters.

A shelter can solve multiple problems. For example, providing protection from rain and wind, as well as providing insulation from chilly evenings. Understand what your main requirement is, and then identify the possible solutions that are available.

Awnings

There are multiple ways to provide shade on a patio, but the cheapest and easiest is by installing a retractable awning. Just keep in mind that these are not designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, so it’s best to retract the awning when bad weather rolls in. Electric awnings are a good alternative, as they can sense when the wind picks up and retract the awning automatically.

Pergolas and Verandas

Climbing plants over a few years provide timber framed pergolas with dappled shade. They provide no protection from the elements. Aluminum louvred pergolas and glass verandas provide full weather protection and compromise an greater upfront cost and potential planning permission. Glass verandas trap the heat and full sun protection is needed for a south facing veranda.

Garden Furniture

When furnishing your garden, consider the space you actually have as oppose to what is shown in the catalog. Hardwoods and powdercoated aluminum are that best domestic materials. Cushions should be stored during the off season.

Alfresco Dining

Outdoor cookery and garden parties. A good barbecue is a means of polite courtesy to your neighbors and keeps the smoke away from their washing.

A few of our veranda and awning articles contain affiliate links to suppliers. These links are marked as sponsored and do not impact our review of the product.