Metal patio covers should only be chosen when the area you wish to cover is very long or wide and requires extra support. Examples would be very large double carports, patio roofs that extend along the entire length of a house, more than 12 feet long or more than 12 feet wide, deck and walkways that extend for long distances with few supporting beams. You may want to consider patio covers in a blend of aluminum roofing with steel beams or supports. The simple single wide carports are best made from aluminum, as are deck and porch additions and small boat covers. If you are concerned about maintaining the metal frames, having to paint or treat them frequently, then go with aluminum. If strength is the issue than go with steel. Also if you live in a region where there are hurricanes or high winds, you may opt for steel posts, beams and then use aluminum roofing panels.
Carports, patio covers, park shelters and patio roofs that are free standing may be crafted from steel, however attached models can be bought prefabricated in do it yourself kits in aluminum that are easy to install. Remember that metal patio covers will use posts that are typically about 3" x 3", and these should be powder painted steel for protection if you are not going with aluminum. Save yourself a lot headaches later by choosing only powder painted or powder coated steel products that will rust less quickly. W' pan patio roofs are available in both aluminum and steel, but consider the difference. In aluminum they will be 19 inches to 32 inches in thickness, and in steel they will be about 24 gauge. ", .025" and .032".
What’s the price difference between metal patio covers and aluminum patio roofs?
The price difference between metal patio covers and the aluminum ones is very little. For example a 10 foot by 20 foot structure that has steel beams that are between 24 and 26 gauge will cost about $1,700 to $1,900 depending if there is a wall to attach it or if it will be freestanding. The same one in aluminum will cost $1,600 to $1,900 depending on the same factors, and on the size of beams, be they 25 inches or 32 inches square. Although metal is touted as being cheaper than the aluminum kits, in fact steel beams and posts and metal patio roofs are only about $50 to $100 different in price, and steel is often more expensive.
You will need to choose between metal covers and aluminum patio roofs depending on what your priority is, strength or ease of long-term care.
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