As the azaleas and dogwoods bloom, and the days warm, thoughts rightly turn to enjoying time outdoors. For those who have a patio, deck, or pool (or those who just dream of one) there are many outdoor living products that can enrich your time spent outside. And unlike conventional wood frame constructed patio, porch, or pool enclosures, which haven’t changed much in decades, these modern, ecofriendly structures are state of the art, engineered additions which can look the same or better, and cost a fraction to build and maintain.
Screen Roof Patio Enclosures:
If you have a deck or slab in place, it is likely that you could enclose the space with an enclosure which has a screened roof. Many people don’t consider the virtues of this option because they associate this type of enclosure with swimming pools, not decks and patios. But since this type of enclosure is the most economical per square foot of building area, it is worth considering as an option.
Screened roof patios can be made as shady as needed through the use of shading screens which can cut out as much light as desired. Otherwise, they are exceptionally bright and, of course, airy.
But don’t let the openness of these structures fool you, they are strong. In fact, they are built to the same wind loads and building codes as the home they attach to, so you can feel confident that your structure has been designed by an engineer. If you have a deck which is elevated, there are even safety rated screens which take the place of bulky guardrails and pickets, increasing the feel of openness and the view.
Composite Aluminum Roof Systems:
Many people want the feeling of extra space a screened enclosure provides, but prefer a solid roof which can keep the rain and heat of summer at bay. The perfect solution for comfort’s sake, as well as the budget’s sake is the Energy Star rated composite aluminum roof system. Built to the same structural standards as the rest of the house, these self supporting roof systems are capable of spanning great distances. And unlike the metal roof systems of the past, composite roof systems are well insulated and can be walked upon for ease of maintenance.
And while adding on a traditional wood frame structure to enclose a typical deck or patio entails costly foundation work and roof reconfiguration, aluminum composite roof systems can usually be constructed on your deck or slab and still comply with today’s stringent building codes. And they can attach right to the eave of the home, eliminating the need for tearing apart your existing roof. All this translates into savings, savings, savings.
Alternatively, composite aluminum insulated roof systems can be used to provide a look which is seamless with the home by creating a peaked style roof and applying shingles. This option saves time and money from traditional methods of construction, while offering the same aesthetic appeal.
Flexible Pane Patio Windows:
These custom made, lightweight, inexpensive patio enclosure systems have been creating smiles for years now, but they are still relatively unknown. Constructed with a sturdy powder coated aluminum frame, these windows utilize a thick, durable, yet translucent material that looks and insulates like glass, yet is adaptable and affordable enough for any circumstance and budget.
Because they are lightweight, these window systems can go places glass cannot. From decks to patios, to just about any opening up to 9’ by 9’! And they are available in an inside mount configuration, so if you already have a screened patio or porch, they fit right into place, leaving the screens in place. They also are great for keeping out pollen. All in all, these windows are the perfect way to get four seasons out of your outdoor space again.
Available in a vertical or horizontal models which open and close, these vinyl pane window systems present the look and advantages of a sunroom, but because the individual sashes are removable, the area can be converted back to full screen in minutes. So add versatility to low price and convenience and you get value.
Metal Pergola Systems:
While traditionally constructed wood pergola and arbors can start out looking great, their pitfalls don’t take long to become apparent. Rotting, twisting, infestation, and of course peeling and faded paint inevitably lead to a maintenance nightmare.
Those and other problems can be eliminated by opting for a metal pergola system. Today’s state of the art metal pergolas are designed with wide dimension supports and shading members, molded end caps, and profiled designs which are more adaptable and can span greater distances than wood framing.
These lightweight structures are also capable of resting against the house utilizing an extruded aluminum gutter system, called a super gutter. This way, rain from the house roof is diverted away from the patio, and the structures are more seamless with the look of the home.
Retractable Canvas Awnings:
If you want an area shaded, but only part of the time, then a retractable awning may be for you. These sturdy, chain driven, units sport a powder coated finish, along with Sunbrella brand fabric. They can be mounted in a number of different configurations, making them adaptable to most circumstances.
Available in a manual or motorized models, these awnings can project up to around 12’ from the house and be as long as needed. Because these awnings are not intended for use in wind or rainstorms, they are usually kept in their retracted position when not in use, lengthening the life of the product.
Glass Sunrooms:
If you are looking to add equity to your property, a glass sunroom is a sure fire way to make out like a bandit. Because when you enclose with glass windows and control the temperature, you create what is legally referred to as “habitable” space. This square footage is considered part of the residence.
Because aluminum constructed glass enclosures are less expensive than traditional wood frame glass sunrooms, the investment for constructing the addition is far outweighed by the increase in property value. And because working with aluminum allows for a more wide open look, and more versatility of design, the benefits just keep adding up.
Building with aluminum also allows for much larger, custom sized windows than are normally seen in common frame construction. With aluminum framework, the glass becomes the star of the show. Windows of up to 72” by 72” are typical in these designs, maximizing the feeling of being one with the outdoors.
Screen Pool Enclosures:
Adding a pool enclosure to your home creates a feeling of space which is truly unique. Although the enclosure feels like an extension of the home, the feeling of volume and openness is unparalleled. And the low cost per square foot for pool enclosures make them an exceptional value. There are several designs to choose from, and in the end each enclosure is fabricated to your exact specifications. Keep in mind that pool enclosures can be constructed in combination with solid roof products to produce “combination” style enclosures which include not only a screen element but a solid, insulated roof element, all in the same structure.
Where to Begin?
Call a State Certified Specialty Structure Contractor for your best options and price. Chris Herron, co-owner All Custom Aluminum, a local Contractor with almost 20 years experience in the Tallahassee area advises folks to call for a free estimate. “ We come out at the customer’s convenience, meet with them, answer their questions, and give them our best price on the spot. It doesn’t cost a penny, and it give us an opportunity to suggest options that the homeowner may not have considered.” When it comes to home improvement, free advice from experts can make a big difference in the budget and the finished product. 
