Elitewood vs Alumawood
Frequently Asked Questions
Elitewood vs Almawood vs Duralum
Differences between Elitewood, Alumawood, and Duralum that Homeowners Should Know
This is the most commonly asked question from homeowners and it’s often misunderstood.
It is very important to understand that there are 2 brands of Elitewood aluminum patio covers. There is Elitewood Ultra and Elitewood Classic, both manufactured by Four Seasons Building Products in Buena Park, CA. Elitewood Ultra is the superior patio cover product on the market. It features the most beautiful and realistic deep driftwood texture, 25% thicker gauge aluminum beams, and an impenetrable Kynar 500 paint coating. Elitewood Ultra is the only patio cover product that has a non-staining coating system. Lattice patio covers are often susceptible to “black streaking” on the rafter beams due to rain or morning dew washing the sitting dust down the vertical sides of the beams; however, a simple hose will easily wash those black streaks away with NO staining!
This can not be said for all the other patio covers products which can stain if not properly maintained.
Elitewood Ultra also comes with a 30-year materials warranty & 10-year labor warranty. This warranty also covers fading & chalking, which no other patio cover product covers. Keep in mind, Elitewood Ultra will have a higher price point then Elitewood Classic, Alumawood or Weatherwood.
Elitewood Classic looks the same as Alumawood & Weatherwood, just made by different manufacturers. Elitewood Classic is manufactured by Four Seasons Building Products. Alumawood is manufactured by Amerimax. Weatherwood is manufactured by Duralum.
Elitewood Classic, Alumawood & Weatherwood, when held side by side, look the exact same; however, Elitewood Classic has 25% thicker gauge aluminum beams and has a primer coat of paint. So, don’t be fooled!
All 3 aluminum patio cover products feature a light cedar wood texture & Teflon paint coating. Although the Teflon coating does provide added shininess to the finish, it isn’t comparable to the Kynar 500 paint finish on the Elitewood Ultra. This is clearly demonstrated thru the warranty which covers 15 years on material & 3 years on the labor for the Elitewood Classic. Alumawood & Weatherwood only cover 1 year on labor. So, if you’re trying to decide between Elitewood Classic vs. Alumawood or Weatherwood, go with the Elitewood Classic. It has a better warranty and is installed by more qualified contractors. Keep in mind neither warranty covers fading or chalking, so if you’re thinking about installing a color besides white then consider upgrading to Elitewood Ultra.
Weatherwood virtually has the same warranty as Alumawood but does not cover unpermitted structures.
Another assurance that can put homeowners at ease, is that Elitewood Ultra & Elitewood Classic can only be purchased by licensed & insured contractors with long standing reputable businesses. Start up companies, and the guy next door, typically use Alumawood or Weatherwood since a contractors license or insurance aren’t necessary to purchase from those manufacturing companies.
View our product comparison below to better understand the features and benefits.
Aluminum Patio Covers
Vinyl Patio Covers
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.
- Low maintenance
- Cost effective
- 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:
- 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.
- Durability: Vinyl patio cover is known to be durable. However, exposure to sunlight can cause it to deteriorate and eventually crack.
- 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.
Sunroom Installation
How to Choose a Sunroom Installer
When you are considering adding a sunroom or a patio enclosure to your house, you only want the very best. Choosing the right sunroom contractor can mean the difference between a worry-free, easy process that results in a family gathering spot you enjoy for years to come—and a stressful situation that ends up feeling like a waste of time and money.
If you are thinking about hiring a sunroom installer in the near future, here are five things to consider:
Go Local
While it may seem like a better idea to go with a larger, franchised company with offices all over the country, we highly recommend choosing a smaller, locally-owned company. Sunroom contractors who have lived and worked in Orange County, CA for their entire professional lives are not only more invested in their community, they are also better-versed in the building codes, the local permitting process, and inspection procedures in your area. Choosing a non-local company can result in expensive fines and delays and make your entire experience less enjoyable.
Look at Past Projects
A good contractor should not only be willing, but also happy and proud, to show you examples of past work. When you look at a sunroom installer’s past projects, make note of quality, consistency—and also variety and versatility. You want a contractor who can make your sunroom addition look and feel like part of your original construction, not one who takes a quick, cookie-cutter approach. If you find a sunroom contractor who you like, but you notice that every project looks the same, keep searching. Nothing is worse than a sunroom that looks like it was tacked on as an afterthought. At Patio Warehouse, we pride ourselves on our design-build skills. We’d love to you to browse our sunroom galleries and our other past projects.
Look at the Reviews
What former customers think about their sunroom contractor’s work really says a lot. Fortunately, we live in the age of Facebook and Yelp, so you can do your research before hiring a sunroom installer. When you check a contractor’s reviews, look for things like reliable customer service, professionalism, and the ability to deliver on time and on budget. Many of our former customers consider us the best sunroom contractors in Orange County, CA. We gladly invite you to check our references!
Visit Showrooms
Online pictures can show you a lot about the quality and consistency of a sunroom contractor’s work, but visiting a showroom can give you an even better sense of the materials the contractor uses. At Patio Warehouse, we use the highest-grade, deeply embossed aluminum products that give your new sunroom addition the look and feel of real wood. We also use the best, most energy-efficient glass in the industry—glazed, tempered, insulated, and able to filter out up to 99% of harmful UV rays. Schedule an appointment to see our showroom yourself!
Check Professional Affiliations
This should go without saying, but you should always make sure to choose a sunroom contractor who is licensed and insured. There’s a lot that can go wrong on a construction site, so you want to choose a contractor who puts safety and professional reputation first.
Ready to get started?
If you live in the Orange County area and you are ready to start sunroom construction, we would love to have the opportunity to submit a quote. It doesn’t cost a thing to get started, so contact us for your free, in-home estimate today.
Building Patio Cover Posts
Building a patio cover on existing concrete is possible, but permit approval depends on several factors. While using the existing concrete slab can potentially save money, it may not meet structural requirements for supporting a patio cover.
Few things to consider:
- Footing requirements – most building codes require proper footings to support the weight of the patio cover structure. In this case your current concrete flooring does not have the adequate footings necessary.
- Structural integrity – the existing slab may not be as thick or strong to support the load of a patio cover, especially in the case of high winds.
- Anchoring – having proper anchoring of support posts is a must for your patio cover stability. Simply attaching posts to the surface of the existing concrete is usually insufficient.
- Code compliance – local building codes often have specific requirements for patio cover construction, including footing sizes, beam spans, and roof pitch.
Using the existing concrete as-is will most likely reject the permit approval. Here’s what you need to get your permit approved:
- Have the existing concrete evaluated by a structural engineer.
- Potentially add new footings or reinforce the existing slab.
- Submit detailed plans showing how the patio cover will be structurally supported.
- Ensure all aspects of the design meet local building codes.
What’s the process to convert a Lattice patio cover to Solid?
We evaluate the state of your lattice patio cover to see if the existing structural members, like the posts, header beam, and concrete footings can facilitate the engineering requirements to a solid cover. If it’s possible, we take off the lattice top and replace it with a solid top.
If the existing structural members don’t facilitate the engineering approval, we need to tear down the lattice patio cover and follow the engineering requirements for a solid patio cover. This is recommended due to the lattice patio cover not being engineered for wind uploads, which requires larger concrete footings and stronger structural steel posts.
Process to build a patio cover on an existing concrete?
Even if you have an existing concrete on which to build your patio cover, you are still required to obtain the HOA and city permits.
What’s the process to a regular patio cover process?
Patio Warehouse uses a six-step method to complete any patio cover projects.
- Design site check: One of our team members visits your residency to get measurements.
- Drafting: We provide you with a professional draft of your custom patio cover to visualize the prototype.
- HOA approval: HOA approval takes 2-6 months, so completing it is a significant milestone.
- Engineering & City permits: Our team completes the blueprints to successfully obtain the required city permits.
- Material site check & manufacturing: Our team ensures that all materials are available to provide you with an estimated time to begin the installation process.
- Installation: The installation process takes between 2-4 days to complete!
If you want to build your new year-round sanctuary please fill out this form.
What is Alumawood made of?
Alumawood is a type of patio cover made from aluminum, which is a lightweight and durable material. The aluminum material is used for both the structural framework and the textured finish that resembles the look of wood. This combination of aluminum construction with a wood-like appearance makes Alumawood a popular choice for patio covers that offer the aesthetic appeal of wood without the associated maintenance and susceptibility to rot or termite damage. Click here to learn more about alumawood patio cover.
Alumawood Patio Cover Cost
The cost of Alumawood patio covers typically ranges from around $10 to $20 per square foot, including materials and installation. The exact price per square foot may vary depending on factors such as the size of the cover, customization options, location, and labor costs. It is recommended to obtain quotes from suppliers or contractors in your area to get a more accurate cost estimate for your specific project. Click here to get an free estimate.
Patio Cover Installation Cost
The cost of installing a patio cover can vary based on factors like the size, materials used, design complexity, where you live, and labor expenses. Typically, professional installation can range from around $3,999 to $39,000, but it’s best to get an estimate for what you’re looking for.
What is Alumawood?
Alumawood is a type of patio cover made from aluminum. It is designed to resemble the look of wood while offering the benefits of aluminum, such as durability and low maintenance. Alumawood patio covers are constructed with an aluminum frame and a textured finish that mimics the appearance of wood, providing an attractive and long-lasting option for outdoor shade and protection. To learn more about Alumawood patio cover click here.
Types of Patio Covers?
There are various types of aluminum patio covers available to suit different needs and preferences. Three common types are solid covers, lattice covers, and insulated covers. Solid covers provide complete shade and protection from the elements, lattice covers offer partial shade with an open-air feel, and insulated covers have added insulation properties for better temperature control.
Do louvered patio covers provide shade?
Yes, louvered patio covers do provide shade. Not only does it provide shade, but it provides a continuous air circulation. This is different from regular patio covers since the louvered patio covers are adjustable slats which allows you to customize the ventilation and shade you want.
Insulated Patio Roof Panels Cost
The cost of an Aluminum patio roof panel starts at $3,999 and can go up to $19,999, depending on the design and finish you choose. Our products of choice are the Elitewood Ultra and Classic Aluminum by Four Seasons.
Investing in our Aluminum patio roof panels provides you with a high quality, low maintenance alternative to real wood. The Elitewood Ultra and Classic Aluminum products offer a variety of style and finish options, ensuring an aesthetic appeal and comfortable outdoor living. Additionally, Elitewood Aluminum is designed to withstand any weather condition, like sun, rain, and extreme heat.
Alumawood Patio Covers Pros and Cons
Alumawood patio covers resemble the look of wood grain, but are resistant to warping, cracking, chipping, and fading, which are common with traditional wood patio covers. Alumawood patio covers are available in a range of colors and styles, and can be customized to match personal taste or the existing design of a home.
Disadvantages of Alumawood Patio Covers
One disadvantage of Alumawood is the limited warranties provided. For example, Alumawood offers only one year of labor warranty, while others like Elitewood offer up to 3 years.
Additionally, contractors are not required to be licensed to purchase from the manufacturing companies. This lack of a licensing requirement could potentially impact the quality of installation and the contractor’s knowledge of the product.
Yes, we work directly with EnerBankUSA financing.
Louvered Roof Patio Cover Cost
So you’re thinking about adding a louvered patio cover to your Orange County Home. It’s a great way to enjoy our amazing weather year-round. But before you jump in, you’re probably wondering about the louvered patio cover cost. It’s smart to be prepared.
A patio cover is an investment. But figuring out a budget doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Why Patio Warehouse Inc is different than other Patio Cover Companies:
We have a different approach to pricing our projects which has been great for the homeowners in Orange County. We are the only Patio Cover company that does it this way, and we are proud of it.
We price our Louvered Patio Covers using component pricing. This means we price every part necessary for the completion of the patio cover. Every part is itemized on a quote sheet so that you can clearly see the cost breakdown.
This is very important to display on a quote sheet because the hardest part of a patio cover construction project is relaying the correct information to the homeowners and our team, which includes draftsman, engineer, project coordinator, project manager, installers & city inspectors.
We get our Louvered Patio Cover jobs designed correctly from the start to avoid unnecessary change of orders. Our approach is detail oriented because we look past the design and more into the engineering of the patio cover project.
We stay away from giving square footage pricing since each patio cover project is unique in its own way. We hope the information on this page gives you an idea of what will be included into your quote sheet.
When you are ready to proceed with a patio cover consultation, fill out the contact us page.
Wood Patio Covers?
Alumawood patio covers offer the best of both worlds: the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and low maintenance of aluminum. This makes them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners who want a stylish, long-lasting, easy-to-care-for outdoor living space.
Unlike traditional wood patio covers that are susceptible to rot, termites, and weathering, aluminum patio covers are engineered to withstand the elements. This material is resistant to:
- Rust
- Termite proof patio cover
- Cracking
- Rotting
This means your patio cover will continue to look its best with minimal upkeep. Alumawood is made from aluminum that’s been given a special embossed surface to resemble real wood. You can choose from a variety of color options and finishes to match your home’s exterior and your personal style.
Lattice Covers: Embrace the Sunlight
Open-top lattice patio covers are perfect if you want partial shade while allowing some sunlight to filter through. This style is ideal for those who want to nurture plants in their outdoor space. It also provides a balance of shade and openness, making the space feel larger and airier.
Solid Roof Covers: Complete Shade and Protection
For total protection from sun, rain, or other elements, a solid roof alumawood patio cover might be a better fit. Solid non-insulated patio covers are a popular option. They offer:
- A seamless, enclosed look.
- Improved temperature control, particularly when paired with insulated panels.
- An ideal solution if you plan to use your patio as an extension of your indoor living area.
Solid roof patio covers also provide a blank canvas for adding ceiling fans or lights, creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space. You can use this space day or night, regardless of the weather.
The Benefits of Choosing Alumawood for Your Patio Cover
Alumawood offers a combination of benefits that make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
1. Unmatched Durability and Low Maintenance
Compared to traditional wood, alumawood is exceptionally resistant to wear and tear. A simple rinse with a garden hose is often enough to keep it clean. You’ll never have to worry about sanding, staining, or painting.
2. Enhanced Aesthetics
Alumawood replicates the look of real wood convincingly, giving your patio a natural, inviting feel. You can select from a palette of colors to find the perfect match for your home, from classic white to rich earth tones. Adding a cover will upgrade your home’s exterior.
3. Long-Term Cost Savings
While there’s an upfront cost to installing an alumawood patio cover, it can lead to savings over time. Its longevity, resistance to rot and pests, and low maintenance needs mean you won’t have to replace it as often as you might with other materials. Plus, it can even potentially boost your home’s value.
Investing in an alumawood patio cover can be a game-changer for your home. These covers combine beauty, strength, and practicality in a way that few other materials can match. They give you a comfortable and stylish space to relax outdoors and make lasting memories with friends and family.
These covers provide shade to your entertainment area. They truly can change your living spaces by opening up your home to create an amazing atmosphere.
Pergola Cost
Building a backyard oasis often sits atop a homeowner’s dream list. A pergola adds a touch of elegance and charm while offering much-needed shade from the California sun. When weighing design options and budgeting for your dream pergola, understanding alumawood pergola cost becomes essential.
While the allure of real wood remains timeless, factors like cost, maintenance, and durability often lead homeowners toward alternatives like alumawood.
So you’re thinking about adding a Alumawood pergola to your Orange County Home. It’s a great way to enjoy our amazing weather year-round.
We have a different approach to pricing our projects which has been great for the homeowners in Orange County. We are the only Patio Cover company that does it this way, and we are proud of it.
We price our Alumawood Pergola using component pricing. This means we price every part necessary for the completion of the patio cover. Every part is itemized on a quote sheet so that you can clearly see the cost breakdown.
This is very important to display on a quote sheet because the hardest part of a patio cover construction project is relaying the correct information to the homeowners and our team, which includes draftsman, engineer, project coordinator, project manager, installers & city inspectors.
We get our Alumawood pergola jobs designed correctly from the start to avoid unnecessary change of orders. Our approach is detail oriented because we look past the design and more into the engineering of the patio cover project.
We stay away from giving square footage pricing since each patio cover project is unique in its own way. We hope the information on this page gives you an idea of what will be included into your quote sheet.
When you are ready to proceed with a patio cover consultation, fill out the contact us page.
Alumawood Pergola Cost vs. Wood Pergola Cost: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Initial Cost
Alumawood Pergola: generally higher
Wood Pergola: generally lower
Maintenance Cost
Alumawood Pergola: Significantly lower (resistant to rot, pests, and weathering)
Wood Pergola: Higher (requires regular staining, sealing, and pest control)
Durability
Alumawood Pergola: Exceptionally durable (can last decades with minimal maintenance)
Wood Pergola: usceptible to rot, pests, and weathering, requiring more frequent replacements
Customization
Alumawood Pergola: Offers various color options and design flexibility, although limitations exist compared to wood
Wood Pergola: Highly customizable in terms of shape, size, and design details
Aesthetics
Alumawood Pergola: Authentically mimics wood grain, offering a natural look
Wood Pergola: Offers a classic, timeless appeal
While wood may initially seem less expensive, factoring in long-term maintenance costs paints a different picture. Alumawood emerges as the more cost-effective choice over time, especially when considering its durability.
If you are looking for a more classic charm for your patio cover, you may opt for a wood patio cover. But for those seeking the look of wood with the durability of aluminum, an alumawood patio cover might just be the ticket. For those DIY’ers, you can find many alumawood patio cover kits online.
You’ll want to make sure your alumawood covers provide adequate shade, especially during the hot summer. Be sure to factor in any applicable building codes in your area as they relate to your outdoor space.
Conclusion
As you embark on transforming your backyard into an oasis of relaxation and enjoyment, consider the numerous benefits of alumawood pergolas.
Alumawood pergola cost proves to be a worthwhile investment when you factor in their low maintenance, unmatched durability, and the ability to withstand weather elements. They blend seamlessly into any Southern California setting, giving you a perfect blend of beauty and functionality for years to come.
