Vinyl vs Aluminum Patio Cover

 

 

Vinyl patio cover material is in high demand in OC due to its popularity and design, but many homeowners are unaware that the sunlight exposure causes the material to become weak and crack over time. If I were to compare the vinyl patio cover and aluminum patio cover over the long run, durability is the distinguishing factor. The solution for a vinyl patio cover is to entirely replace it with a new vinyl patio cover. 

This page is intended to give you a clear idea of what you should expect when spending on a vinyl patio cover, either through a patio cover contractor or do-it-yourself (DYI) kit. 

Alumawood is another highly demanded and well-known product on the market. The Alumawood patio cover material is made of aluminum and wood particles, which is slightly superior to vinyl. 

On the other hand, you have aluminum patio cover, which is amongst the most popular materials in the United States. Unlike alumawood and vinyl, aluminum is made entirely of metal; the only minor issue is discoloration when exposed to the sun, but a coating solution is provided. 

Due to their superior cost effectiveness, aluminum and vinyl are among the top materials for home renovation projects. While we could build our patio covers and sunrooms with many materials, Patio Warehouse uses aluminum products for their combination of durability, efficiency, and cost savings.

Durability:

In Orange County, California, the constant sunshine creates a friendly climate, but it’s not as kind to vinyl. Over time, vinyl can fade, warp, and crack. Aluminum withstands the elements, providing long-lasting strength and style.

Efficiency:

While both aluminum and vinyl are easy to maintain, Patio Warehouse chooses aluminum for our Elitewood patio cover and Sunroom projects because of its ability to provide a lightweight frame that can be embossed with attractive woodgrain patterns and coated with protective enamel and custom paint colors.

Savings:

Aluminum stands as one of the most affordable building materials. While vinyl is also included in the cost-effective category, aluminum can be easily enhanced with additions like baked enamel coatings, which provide energy saving protection against the harshest elements.

Different design options for Vinyl Patio Covers in Orange County

One of the good things of a vinyl patio cover is the options it offers when it comes to the design. Depending on the manufacturer, vinyl patio covers are available in a variety of styles and customization options such as color, size, and trim. 

In Orange County, vinyl patio contractors currently offer the following designs: 

  • Cardiff 
  • Palomar
  • Arcadi 
  • Adjustable top
  • Louvered Top 
  • Comfort Shade 
  • Mixed and Custom

3 Reasons Why You Should Buy Vinyl Patio Cover?

If your mind is set to spend on a vinyl patio cover, here’s three reasons who you should. 

  1. Low maintenance 
  2. Cost effective
  3. Plenty design options

Why Should You NOT Purchase a Vinyl Patio Cover?

On the other hand, if you are still unsure about whether to invest in a vinyl patio cover, consider the following: 

  1. Short lifespan: If you decide to invest in a vinyl patio cover, you will be required to spend money more than once over a 30-year period. A vinyl patio cover will last between 10 and 15 years, meanwhile an aluminum patio cover lasts between 20 and 30 years. 
  2. Durability: Vinyl patio cover is known to be durable. However, exposure to sunlight can cause it to deteriorate and eventually crack. 
  3. Appearance: Due to the limited color and options, vinyl patio covers can give the perception of being low quality.  

Frequently asked questions: 

What is the best material for a patio cover?

  • Aluminum is currently the best material on the market due to its modern and aesthetic appearance. Of course, it all depends on your preferences and your investment budget. Other alternatives may be alumawood, wood, or vinyl. 

Which is better: aluminum or vinyl patio?

  • Although both patio cover materials are popular, aluminum patio covers have superior durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. 

How much does it cost to put in an aluminum patio cover?

  • Depending on the Aluminum material (Classic or Elitewood), type of finish, color and design, the price of an aluminum patio cover ranges between $3,999 to $39,999. Fill out the contact form to receive a free estimate. 

From high-end patio enclosures to louvered patio covers, aluminum construction offers upscale dependability at sensible prices.

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