Difference between Awnings and Patio Covers

Difference between Awnings and Patio Covers

The main difference between awnings and patio covers is that awnings are always attached to a house or building, while patio covers can be free-standing. If you want to be able to walk out your door in the rain and not get wet, chances are you want an awning. Patio covers can, of course, also be attached to a building, though they do not have to be. 

Awnings also are usually solid. If they are retractable or made of canvas, they are waterproofed. The idea behind is that you can walk outside in the rain and not get wet. This is why so many people put awnings over their doors – they want to be able to wipe their feet on a dry mat so that they will not track water and mud into the house, for instance. Patio covers, on the other hand, do not have to be waterproof. In fact, lattice patio covers are extremely popular in the Sacramento, CA area, including in Benicia, Danville, Vallejo, Concord, and San Ramon.

These patio covers consist of parallel beams, or sometimes crisscrossing beams, which provide partial shade. If you stood under a lattice patio cover in the rain, you would certainly get wet!

If you are considering whether to get an awning or a patio cover for your Fairfield, Vacaville, Stockton, Roseville, Rocklin, or Walnut Creek home, call Screen and Shade Solutions today! Our experts will do a free consultation, in which we will find out your needs and expectations for your awning or patio cover, and will recommend designs and materials that will best fit your requirements.