What’s Better: Awning vs. Patio Cover?

Patios and decks are great outdoor living solutions. However, fully tapping into the wonders they provide will require that your property has just the right protection against the harsh Southern California elements.

The good news is that you’ve got various outdoor shade options to choose from, including awnings and a canvas patio covering. There’s just one question you’ll need to answer – awning vs. patio cover, which is better? Let’s find out.

Weighing Awning Vs. Patio Cover Benefits

Here’s how awnings and patio covers stack up against each other in protection, variety, durability, maintenance, and cost.

Protection

In terms of patio protection, awnings offer a great shield against the sun. Also, when the rains and winds aren’t too strong, awnings and patios will do a good job of keeping you dry.

Still, given their sturdy frames and retractable screens that can create complete enclosures, you’ll get better protection from patio covers. You won’t have to worry about rain, glare, bugs, or airborne irritants with that barrier available.

Variety

Who doesn’t want to make their outdoor living space unique or in tune with the latest patio and porch trends? Awnings come in a wide range of patterns and colors, so they have the edge when it comes to variety. 

While patio covers come in fewer tones, you can paint the frames and play around with their configurations (like choosing between detached and attached covers).

Durability

Between an awning vs. patio cover, which is the more durable of the two? Patio covers, hands down! 

Patio covers offer much better longevity, with durable outdoor covers lasting years. Premium patio covers are even able to withstand strong winds and storms without damage. 

Unfortunately, mold, mildew growth, and moisture damage are real problems for awnings. Their fabrics are also prone to color loss when you expose them to the sun for long periods.

Maintenance

Both patio covers and awnings will need routine maintenance and annual cleanings if they are to remain functional and visually appealing. Cleaning aluminum-framed covers is as easy as spraying them with your garden hose.

With awnings, however, they’ll need mild cleaners and gentle washing to remove dirt and grime buildup.

Cost

Cost is one of the main awning advantages because they are easy to install. Also, fabric is way cheaper than components made of fiberglass, stainless steel, wood, or aluminum.

As affordable as awnings are, you should keep in mind that you’ll need to change yours every five to ten years, even if the material is of high quality. This helps you accurately weigh the total cost of adding an awning against the financial benefits of a patio cover.

Get the Right Outdoor Shade Options for Your Outdoor Area

With both having redeeming qualities, pitting awning vs. patio cover is certainly no easy task. Ultimately, knowing which option to go for will often come down to your unique situation.

Do you need help choosing a patio cover or awning? Reach out to Van Nuys Awning Co. at (805) 669-9138 and get a custom, high-quality patio awning or cover.