By Joe Ronstadt, Sr.
It’s not unusual for an exterior wood structure such as a Patio Cover to last 30 to 40 years or more if it was constructed using proper exterior framing techniques as opposed to interior framing techniques. That said, many Pergola/Patio Covers were constructed using the latter. Unfortunately, that is why they sometimes develop Dry Rot and Termite problems.
We at Blue Knight Construction Orange County, have developed the right techniques. The only maintenance you should expect is to paint the top slats only every eight to 10 years.
You can’t beat the look and feel of wood! A Wood Pergola or Patio Cover can easily last 30 to 40 years with very little maintenance and proper weatherproofing techniques. Wood provides a warm authentic ambience that fake wood aluminum just can’t give you.
Continuity & Property Value: Your Orange County home is built of wood and has exposed wood trim and fascia board. A continuation of same or similar materials and textures throughout your home promotes a balanced uniformity and supports high property values.
Maintenance and Longevity: Wood Pergola/Patio Covers require periodic painting (top only) every 8-10 years or so and can last about 30 to 40 years. If our unique waterproofing techniques are used, maintenance is greatly reduced. Among other things, such as metal coping on the Headers and Rafters, we pre-paint all lumber including saw cuts 2-coats prior to installation, so there’s never a wood on wood connection which will cause water to permeate into the wood.
Wood is Cooler: Wood is an insulator and does not radiate heat like Aluminum does.
ALUMINUM HAS ITS DRAWBACKS. IT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE.
- Reduces Home Marketability & Value. Some people say that it looks like a mobile home or gas station awning.
- Unsightly Rivets & Seams.
- Looks & Feels like Metal, not Wood. You can tell before you even touch it.
- Easily Dented & Scratched.
- Oxidizes over time.
- Conducts and Radiates Heat on to living area below.
What About Property Value? Not everyone likes the look and feel of a metal structure in their backyard. A good realtor might advise you not to install an Aluminum Patio Cover or Pergola because it can definitely reduce the market pool of home buyers and therefore reducing your home’s value.
