Information every homeowner needs to know in Temecula Ca before buying an Aluminum Patio Cover.

How much does it cost to build an Alumawood Patio Cover?

Typically a covered patio will cost $25.00 – $35.00 per square foot to build. There are several additional options that can increase the total construction costs such as ceiling fans, upgraded lights & electrical outlets. Call a reputable Professional Patio Cover Contractor for a free site visit to provide an accurate quote for your patio project.

Does a covered patio add value to my home?

Patio cover construction does add value to your home. Most tract homes do not come with any sort of outdoor shade. Not only will you be able to enjoy your new shaded area, but when you sell your home, you will quickly find out that you now have an advantage over other similar properties that will be for sale.

Does a covered patio add square footage to a home?

No, a new project like this does not add to the square footage of your home at appraisal. Examples of patio projects that do add to overall square footage are construction projects like sunrooms and room additions that have conditioner air.

Which is cheaper, a deck or concrete?

Concrete is cheaper than building a deck. A new concrete slab will typically average between $6—$14 per square foot for standard flat work. Some soil

conditions as well as elevations changes can increase the square footage cost.

Is Alumawood cheaper than wood construction?

Absolutely. It is significantly cheaper. A wood frame cover will be at least twice the cost of Alumawood, if not more.

Can you stand on an Alumawood cover?

Yes and No. The most common Alumawood Patio Cover is the Newport Solid. This is called a flat pan. From underneath, it will look like a tongue and grove ceiling. However, on the top side it is corrugated channels that are locked together. If you step on to the top of the cover, you will most likely cause major damage. It is recommended to use a plank or a light weight half a sheet of plywood to distribute your weight across the locks. It is important to keep your plank or plywood against the attachment wall, not anywhere towards the center of the patio cover. The same thing goes for a Lattice top Patio Cover. The other type of Alumawood Patio Cover is an insulated roof panels. They are strong and durable. During construction, you will see installers walking on top of the new cover. This is usually a surprise to most Homeowners, but do not worry. It is perfectly normal and will not damage the new roof panels in any way. An Insulated Roof will generally run $5- $8 more per sq. ft. and does have some other benefits like being able to walk on it to clean the two-story windows easier or paint your home if it is a two story. Although it provides the same amount of shade, it could be a bit more cooling in the summer because the heat will not transfer through the 3” insulation that is between two aluminum skins. You will also have the peace of mind that hail will not damage or leave dents on the ceiling of the cover.

What is the process to get a proper quote?

Once you have found a reputable Patio Cover Dealer/Contractor that is Licensed and Insured, you will schedule an onsite visit to your home. This is very important because every home has different size yards and shapes of yards. It is critical that you keep a certain distance/setback to your neighbors, as well as making sure that the patio cover can be built onto your home with the proper height needed for the building codes. During your appointment, we will address your goals and review options that meet your needs. Your questions will be thoroughly answered, and a clearly defined job scope will be produced onsite with a written quote. Be sure that everything that you asked for is in writing on the quote. Recommended getting at least two quotes.

Do I need a Building Permit from my County or City to build an Alumawood Patio Cover?

Once your Patio Cover size exceeds 120sq.ft. it is necessary to obtain a Building Permit. Do not let your Contractor tell you otherwise. You will be the one in trouble later. (In some States they do not require a permit, always do your homework) in California, all cities and Counties do require permits. You will also need to get approval from you HOA if you have one. Your Contractor can help you with Plot plans required.

How soon could a new patio cover be installed?

Normally installation can get started within three weeks of your approval and most jobs are installed in a single day.

Why is it called Alumawood and is there wood inside of it?

There is No wood inside or outside of the Alumawood Product. It comes pre-painted in 7 different colors and will never need to be repainted. It is simply called Alumawood because it is Aluminum with a wood grain embossed texture. It is light weight, and most components are hollow. Sometimes the Contractor will order your materials with steel inserts for the post and header beam to get a larger span between post or to comply with the building codes.

Is there more than one manufacturer of Aluminum Patio Covers?

Yes, Alumawood is just one in several Aluminum Patio Cover Manufacturers out there.

• Alumawood is made by Amerimax (Most Popular)

• Weatheredwood is made by Duralum

• Elitewood is made by Four Seasons

• Duracool is made by United Duralume

There are a couple more however these are the four most used in the industry. For the most part they look and perform the same, they all do the job. Some may have a better paint finish and or warranty. Check with your Contractor to see which one they prefer to use.

Are there accessories for Aluminum Patio Covers?

Yes, there are a few accessories that will enhance the look as well as provide a practical purpose. There is the AlumaBase™ this is a decorative base that goes on the bottom of the H-Post to create a finished column look. www.lbstructural.com The AlumaTable™ this is a 23” round table that is adjustable onto the H-post and does not require tools or fasteners into the post. www.lbstructural.com The AlumaHanger™ these are hooks that are especially made for Aluminum patio covers. They do not require fasteners and the can support hanging plants and lights as well as drop down shades. www.alumahangers.com

How do I clean my Aluminum Patio Cover when it starts looking dirty?

There is a product that is called Alumashine™ this is the one and only Aluminum Patio Cover Cleaner on the market. It is the very best because it is specially formulated to work on the painted aluminum that has been subjected to the outdoor elements. It will remove the dirt, mildew, tiger streaks, etc. and will leave a beautiful like new luster on the finish. Once you use the Alumashine™ it will leave a protective coating that will repel the grime for a much longer time. www.Alumashine.com