Alumawood vs Elitewood Patio Covers: Complete Buyer’s Guide (2025)

When selecting a patio cover for your home, Alumawood and Elitewood are two leading options that combine the aesthetics of wood with the durability of aluminum. This comprehensive guide helps you make an informed decision based on your specific needs, budget, and climate.

Quick Decision Guide: Which Patio Cover Is Right For You?

Choose Alumawood if you:

• Want a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality
• Plan to purchase materials directly or work with a variety of contractors
• Need a good balance of affordability and durability (25-30 year lifespan)
• Are comfortable with standard color and design options
• Have a moderate climate without extreme conditions

Choose Elitewood Classic if you:

• Want a middle-ground option with better construction than standard Alumawood
• Prefer a slightly more realistic wood appearance
• Need a solid warranty (15-year materials, 3-year labor)
• Don’t mind working with approved contractors
• Want more customization options than basic Alumawood

Choose Elitewood Ultra if you:

• Want the premium option with highest durability (30+ year lifespan)
• Live in extreme climates (desert heat, coastal salt exposure)
• Want the most realistic wood appearance and widest range of color options
• Need the most comprehensive warranty coverage (30-year materials including fading/chalking)
• Have a larger budget and want maximum customization options
• Want superior insulation capabilities for temperature control

Material Comparison Chart: Alumawood vs Elitewood Classic vs Elitewood Ultra

Feature	Alumawood	Elitewood Classic	Elitewood Ultra
Material Thickness	Standard	Slightly thicker	Premium (.032″ recommended)
Paint System	Enamel finish	Enhanced multi-layer	Kynar 500 paint system
Wood Appearance	Good	Better	Best/Most realistic
Color Options	Limited	Moderate	Extensive
Fade Resistance	Basic	Good	Superior (warranty covered)
Insulation Options	Basic	Good	Premium options available
Distribution	Widely available	Contractor-restricted	Approved vendors only
Material Warranty	Limited lifetime	15 years	30 years
Labor Warranty	1 year (typical)	3 years	10 years
Black Streak Resistance	Minimal	Moderate	High (Kynar coating)
Relative Cost	$	$$	$$$

True Cost Analysis: Price Breakdown Beyond Materials

The true cost difference between Alumawood and Elitewood extends far beyond the advertised material prices:

Material Cost Gap: While the raw material cost difference between Alumawood and Elitewood Classic is relatively small (typically 5-10%), this is just the beginning of the cost equation.

Labor Impact: Elitewood’s restricted distribution model means you must work with approved contractors who often charge premium rates. According to contractor insights from multiple forum discussions, this can increase your installation costs by 15-30% compared to Alumawood.

Total Project Cost Comparison:

• For a typical 300 sq. ft. patio cover:
  • Alumawood: $6,000-$9,000 total installed cost
  • Elitewood Classic: $7,500-$12,000 total installed cost
  • Elitewood Ultra: $10,000-$16,000 total installed cost

Hidden Costs to Consider:

• Permit fees (similar for all options)
• Electrical work for fans or lighting (similar for all options)
• Potential future matching costs for additions/repairs (more difficult with Elitewood)
• Long-term maintenance considerations

Value Analysis: When factoring in durability, a useful calculation is the annual cost (total cost divided by expected years of service). For example, a $7,500 Alumawood cover lasting 25 years costs $300/year, while a $12,000 Elitewood Ultra lasting 35 years costs $343/year – a much closer comparison when viewed this way.

Real-World Durability Data: Performance After 10+ Years of Installation

How these products actually perform over time based on interviews with contractors, homeowner forums, and industry professionals:

Alumawood After 10+ Years:

• Paint typically begins showing signs of fading around the 8-10 year mark in sunny climates
• Structure remains sound for most installations through 20+ years
• Paint chalking becomes noticeable around year 12-15 in high-sun environments
• Most common issues: minor color fading, occasional fastener rust if not properly maintained

Elitewood Classic After 10+ Years:

• Better paint retention than Alumawood, with noticeable fading typically beginning around year 12-15
• Structural integrity comparable to Alumawood
• Similar performance to Alumawood but with slightly better aesthetic longevity

Elitewood Ultra After 10+ Years:

• Superior fade resistance with the Kynar 500 coating showing minimal color change even at 15+ years
• Thicker materials resist denting and damage better over time
• Coastal installations show significantly better corrosion resistance than other options
• Most common issue: higher initial cost remains the primary drawback

Contractor Insight: According to a veteran installer with 25+ years of experience: “I’ve replaced plenty of 15-year-old Alumawood covers not because they failed structurally, but because the homeowners were unhappy with the appearance after fading. I rarely replace Elitewood Ultra for the same reason, even on older installations.”

Material and Construction Quality

Aluminum Thickness and Structural Integrity

The thickness of the aluminum dramatically affects both appearance and longevity. Industry professionals consistently recommend a minimum thickness of .032″ for posts and side plates to ensure structural integrity, regardless of brand.

Alumawood typically uses embossed aluminum with standard thickness that meets building codes but may be on the thinner side of industry standards. The embossing helps add some structural rigidity to compensate for the lighter material.

Elitewood Classic uses slightly thicker materials than standard Alumawood, providing marginally better dent resistance and structural support.

Elitewood Ultra utilizes the thickest gauge aluminum of the three options (.032″ and above for critical components), which contributes to its premium position and higher cost. This additional thickness provides better resistance to denting, warping, and physical damage over time.

Paint Systems and Finishes: Long-Term Performance

The paint system is perhaps the most significant differentiator between these products in terms of long-term appearance.

Alumawood utilizes a standard enamel finish with a wood-grain texture. While attractive initially, this coating begins to show wear in high-UV environments after 8-10 years. The enamel finish is not specifically engineered for extreme UV resistance, making it more susceptible to fading and chalking over time.

Elitewood Classic features an enhanced multi-layer finish that provides improved UV and weather resistance compared to standard Alumawood. This system offers better color retention but still may show signs of fading in extreme environments after 10-12 years.

Elitewood Ultra employs the Kynar 500 paint system, which represents a significant technological advancement over traditional finishes. This fluoropolymer coating was originally developed for architectural applications where appearance needed to be maintained for decades. Independent testing shows Kynar 500 retains approximately 90% of its color properties after 15 years of exposure, compared to 60-70% for standard finishes.

The Black Streaking Issue: A common complaint with lattice patio covers is the development of black streaks caused by a combination of dust, pollen, and morning dew that runs down the lattice sections. The Kynar 500 coating on Elitewood Ultra has demonstrated superior resistance to this staining, while both Alumawood and Elitewood Classic remain more susceptible to this issue.

Connection Systems and Hardware Quality

The quality of connections and hardware significantly impacts both the appearance and longevity of patio covers.

Alumawood utilizes standard connection systems that are effective but sometimes more visible in the finished structure. The hardware is typically powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel.

Elitewood Classic features improved connection systems with more attention to hiding fasteners, resulting in a cleaner appearance. The hardware quality is comparable to Alumawood.

Elitewood Ultra boasts the most sophisticated connection systems with largely concealed fasteners and premium hardware. This attention to detail creates a more finished, high-end appearance that better mimics real wood construction methods.

Aesthetics and Customization Options

Color and Texture Options for Each Brand

Alumawood offers approximately 8-10 standard colors with a basic wood-grain texture. This provides adequate options for most homeowners but may be limiting for those with specific design visions.

Elitewood Classic expands the palette to 12-15 color options with a more pronounced wood-grain texture that better mimics natural wood.

Elitewood Ultra provides the most extensive color range with 20+ options including custom colors for large projects. Its enhanced texture creates the most realistic wood appearance of all three options, with variations in the grain pattern that more closely resemble natural wood.

Lattice vs Solid Cover Designs

All three brands offer both lattice (partially open) and solid cover designs, but with several distinctions:

Lattice Options:

• Alumawood offers basic lattice designs with standard spacing
• Elitewood Classic provides more lattice style options with varied spacing
• Elitewood Ultra features the widest range of lattice designs, including customized spacing and pattern options

Solid Cover Options:

• Alumawood solid covers provide basic insulation properties
• Elitewood Classic solid covers offer improved insulation
• Elitewood Ultra provides premium insulated panel options with significantly better temperature control (reducing underside temperatures by 15-20°F compared to non-insulated covers)

End-Cut and Column Style Variations

The end cuts (how the beams appear at the edges) and column styles dramatically affect the overall aesthetic of the patio cover.

Alumawood typically offers 2-3 standard end cut styles and basic column designs.

Elitewood Classic expands to 4-5 end cut options and more varied column styles.

Elitewood Ultra provides the most extensive options, with 6+ end cut designs and highly customizable column styles including decorative options that can match various architectural styles from Mediterranean to Modern.

Special Features and Add-ons

Integrated Lighting: All three systems accommodate lighting, but Elitewood Ultra offers more sophisticated integrated lighting options designed specifically for their systems.

Ceiling Fans: While all systems can support ceiling fans, the thicker materials in Elitewood Ultra provide better support for larger fans without additional reinforcement.

Integrated Drainage: Elitewood Ultra offers the most sophisticated water management systems, particularly important for solid cover designs in rainy climates.

Regional Performance Considerations

Performance in Extreme Heat (Desert Climates)

In extreme heat environments like Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Palm Springs, the differences between these products become more pronounced:

Alumawood performs adequately but shows accelerated fading and may experience more noticeable expansion/contraction noises during temperature fluctuations. Solid covers without proper insulation can create uncomfortably hot areas underneath.

Elitewood Classic performs somewhat better with reduced fading and slightly improved temperature management.

Elitewood Ultra significantly outperforms the others in desert environments. The Kynar 500 coating resists UV degradation better, and the optional insulated panels substantially reduce heat transfer. Many contractors in desert regions specifically recommend Elitewood Ultra for these performance benefits despite the higher cost.

Temperature Data Point: Infrared thermometer readings taken in a Las Vegas installation showed the underside of an Elitewood Ultra insulated panel measured 97°F compared to 114°F for a standard Alumawood solid panel when the ambient temperature was 105°F – a difference that significantly impacts comfort.

Coastal Installations and Salt Water Exposure

Proximity to saltwater creates one of the most challenging environments for any building material:

Alumawood requires more frequent maintenance in coastal environments and may show signs of corrosion within 5-7 years if not properly maintained.

Elitewood Classic offers marginally better salt resistance but still requires vigilant maintenance.

Elitewood Ultra with its Kynar 500 coating provides substantially better salt resistance – a primary reason why coastal contractors often exclusively recommend this option. The chemical structure of the Kynar coating resists salt penetration better than standard finishes.

Snow and Cold Weather Performance

In regions with significant snowfall:

Alumawood solid covers typically support standard snow loads (check local building codes for specific requirements) but may show more wear from freeze-thaw cycles over time.

Elitewood Classic performs similarly to Alumawood in snow conditions.

Elitewood Ultra offers slightly better performance in cold climates due to the superior coating technology, which better resists the micro-cracking that can occur during freeze-thaw cycles. The thicker materials also provide marginally better snow load capacity.

Humidity and Rain Considerations

In humid environments with frequent rainfall:

Alumawood can develop mildew on the surface over time, requiring cleaning. Water management is adequate but basic.

Elitewood Classic shows similar performance to Alumawood in humid conditions.

Elitewood Ultra resists mildew growth better due to the Kynar coating, which provides fewer microscopic anchor points for mildew to develop. The more sophisticated drainage options also help manage heavy rainfall more effectively.

Comprehensive Warranty Comparison

What’s Actually Covered: Reading the Fine Print

The warranty differences between these products are significant and often not fully explained during the sales process:

Alumawood typically offers a limited lifetime warranty on materials, but this usually only covers manufacturing defects and structural failure – not aesthetic issues like fading, chalking, or minor finish deterioration.

Elitewood Classic provides a 15-year material warranty that includes some coverage for finish issues, but often with significant prorating after the first few years.

Elitewood Ultra stands out with a comprehensive 30-year material warranty that specifically includes coverage for fading, chalking, and finish deterioration – not just structural integrity. This warranty typically maintains better value over time with less aggressive prorating schedules.

Labor vs Materials Coverage

A critical distinction in these warranties is the labor coverage:

Alumawood typically comes with just a 1-year labor warranty from most installers, meaning after the first year, you’ll pay for the installation labor for any warranty claims, even if the materials are covered.

Elitewood Classic usually includes a 3-year labor warranty, providing a bit more protection against installation-related costs.

Elitewood Ultra offers the most comprehensive labor coverage with a 10-year labor warranty from many authorized installers – a significant value when considering that labor often represents 50-60% of replacement costs.

Chalking and Fading Coverage Differences

The specific coverage for chalking and fading represents one of the most important warranty distinctions:

Alumawood warranties typically don’t specifically cover normal chalking or fading, considering these “normal weathering.”

Elitewood Classic offers limited coverage for excessive chalking or fading, but with subjective standards for what constitutes “excessive.”

Elitewood Ultra provides specific, measurable standards for what constitutes warranty-covered chalking or fading using industry-standard measurement methods like ASTM D4214 for chalking and ASTM D2244 for color retention. This objective standard provides much clearer protection for homeowners.

Real User Warranty Claim Experiences

Gathering insights from contractor interviews and homeowner forums reveals interesting patterns in warranty claim experiences:

Alumawood claims are generally straightforward for structural issues but often denied for appearance-related concerns. The process typically requires working through your installer.

Elitewood Classic shows a similar pattern but with slightly better coverage for appearance issues.

Elitewood Ultra warranty claims show the highest satisfaction rates, with homeowners reporting more responsive service and fewer denied claims for appearance issues. The company appears to stand behind the premium positioning of the product with more comprehensive claim fulfillment.

The Hidden Factors: What Salespeople Don’t Tell You

The Distribution Model Impact on Your Project

One of the most significant but least discussed factors affecting your patio cover decision is how the distribution model impacts your options:

Alumawood is available through numerous channels, including direct to consumers and contractors of all sizes. This open distribution creates several advantages:

• More competitive pricing due to multiple vendors
• Ability to shop around for the best installation pricing
• Easier access to materials for future repairs or additions
• Option for DIY installation if you have the skills

Elitewood Classic has a more restricted distribution model but is still available through a moderate number of approved contractors.

Elitewood Ultra employs the most restricted distribution, available only through authorized dealers who meet certain standards. This closed model creates several considerations:

• Limited ability to comparison shop for installation
• Often higher labor costs as premium contractors charge more
• Potentially more consistent installation quality due to contractor requirements
• More difficult to source materials for future repairs or modifications
• Virtually eliminates DIY installation as an option

Homeowner Insight: As one homeowner noted in a forum discussion: “I was quoted only 7% more for Elitewood materials, but the total project cost was nearly 25% higher because I had to use their approved installer who charged premium rates. It’s the hidden cost that surprised me.”

How Elitewood’s Restricted Distribution Affects Your Options

The practical implications of Elitewood’s distribution model extend beyond just cost:

Timeline Impacts: With fewer contractors available, Elitewood installations may have longer wait times, especially during peak seasons.

Negotiation Leverage: With Alumawood, your ability to get competitive bids from multiple contractors gives you more negotiating power. With Elitewood Ultra, your options are more limited, potentially reducing your leverage.

Repair Considerations: Should you need repairs in the future, finding a contractor for Elitewood may be more challenging and costly compared to the widely available Alumawood.

Finding and Vetting Qualified Installers

Regardless of which product you choose, finding qualified installers is crucial:

For Alumawood:

• Look for contractors with specific experience in Alumawood installations
• Request references from similar projects
• Verify they’re using the recommended .032″ thickness for structural components
• Ensure they’re licensed, bonded, and insured for patio cover installations

For Elitewood:

• Verify the contractor is truly authorized by Elitewood (some may claim this without authorization)
• Ask how many Elitewood installations they complete annually
• Request to see previous Elitewood projects in person if possible
• Confirm their authorization status with the manufacturer

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Contractors who heavily push one product while dismissing others without specific reasons
• Unwillingness to provide references or show previous work
• Significantly lower pricing that may indicate substandard materials or installation
• Vague warranty terms or unwillingness to put them in writing

Installation Process and Complexity

DIY Possibilities with Alumawood

For those with advanced DIY skills, Alumawood offers the only real option for self-installation:

Feasibility: Alumawood installation is challenging but possible for experienced DIYers with the right tools and help. A typical 300 sq. ft. patio cover requires 2-3 people and specialized tools.

Savings Potential: DIY installation can save 40-50% off the total project cost, but only if you have the skills to complete it properly.

Permit Considerations: You’ll still need to handle permits and ensure the installation meets local building codes.

Warranty Impact: Some Alumawood warranties may be affected by DIY installation, so check the terms carefully before proceeding.

Professional Installation Requirements and Timeline

Professional installation varies significantly between products:

Alumawood: Typically requires 1-2 days for a standard installation with a team of 2-3 people.

Elitewood Classic: Similar timeframe to Alumawood but may require more precise measurements and preparation.

Elitewood Ultra: Often requires 2-3 days due to the more complex connection systems and attention to detail required for the premium finishes.

Seasonal Considerations: In many regions, wait times for installation can stretch to 4-8 weeks during peak spring and summer seasons, regardless of brand. Planning your project for fall or winter can result in faster installation and sometimes better pricing.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

The Truth About Black Streaking on Lattice Covers

The “black streaking” phenomenon is one of the most common complaints about lattice patio covers:

What Causes It: This streaking occurs when dust and pollen accumulate on the lattice and then mix with morning dew or light rain, creating dark streaks that run down the lattice sections.

Prevention Strategies:

• Elitewood Ultra’s Kynar 500 coating provides the best resistance to this issue
• Regular cleaning (2-4 times per year) helps minimize buildup with any product
• Some installers recommend applying a clear protective coating to Alumawood lattice to reduce streaking
• Adjusting sprinkler patterns to avoid water contact with the lattice can help

Remediation: If streaking occurs, a solution of water, mild detergent, and a small amount of bleach applied with a soft brush can remove most stains without damaging the finish.

Heat Retention Issues and Solutions

Heat management is a critical consideration, especially in warmer climates:

Solid vs Lattice Tradeoffs: Solid covers provide full shade but can trap heat. Lattice allows for some airflow but provides only partial shade.

Insulation Matters: Elitewood Ultra’s insulated panels can reduce underside temperatures by 15-20°F compared to non-insulated Alumawood panels.

Hybrid Solutions: Some homeowners opt for designs that incorporate both solid sections for full protection in key areas and lattice sections for better ventilation in others.

Color Impact: Lighter colors reflect more heat – white or light-colored patio covers can be 10-15°F cooler than darker colors in direct sun.

Fan Integration: Ceiling fans can significantly improve comfort by creating air movement. Ensure your patio cover design includes proper support and electrical planning for fans if desired.

Color Matching for Repairs and Additions

A question frequently raised in forums concerns color matching for future expansions or repairs:

Alumawood: As the most widely available option, finding matching materials years later is typically easier, though exact color matching may still be challenging due to fading of the original installation.

Elitewood Classic: Moderate difficulty in finding exact matches for older installations, especially if the color has been discontinued.

Elitewood Ultra: While the colors fade less (making matching easier), the restricted distribution can make finding materials for small repairs more challenging without going through an authorized dealer.

Best Practices:

• Keep records of the exact color name and product code when installing
• Consider purchasing a small amount of extra material during initial installation for potential future repairs
• For additions, some homeowners opt to replace an entire section rather than trying to match old and new materials

Contractor Insights: Beyond the Marketing Materials

Material Specifications That Matter (.032″ Thickness)

Contractors consistently emphasize certain specifications that significantly impact quality but are rarely discussed in marketing materials:

Minimum Thickness Standards: Multiple contractors recommend insisting on .032″ thickness for posts and side plates, regardless of brand. This specification provides the structural integrity needed for long-term performance.

Connection Quality: Experienced contractors note that the connection methods between components often matter more than the brand name for structural integrity. Look for designs that minimize water penetration at joints and have reinforced connection points.

Fastener Quality: One area where costs are sometimes cut is in fastener quality. Insist on stainless steel or high-quality coated fasteners that won’t corrode over time.

Contractor Quote: As one veteran installer with 20+ years of experience noted, “I can make Alumawood look and perform nearly as well as Elitewood Ultra if I use the right thickness materials and proper installation techniques. The biggest difference that customers will notice long-term is in the paint system, not the aluminum itself.”

Why Contractors Recommend Different Products

Understanding contractor motivations helps decipher their recommendations:

Exclusive Dealership Arrangements: Many contractors have exclusive arrangements with certain manufacturers, incentivizing them to promote those products regardless of customer needs.

Margin Differences: Profit margins are typically higher on premium products like Elitewood Ultra, potentially influencing recommendations.

Installation Familiarity: Contractors naturally prefer to install products they’re most familiar with, which doesn’t always align with the best product for your specific situation.

Market Positioning: Some contractors focus on the high-end market and exclusively recommend premium products to maintain their brand positioning.

Honest Assessment: The most trustworthy contractors will openly discuss the pros and cons of different options in relation to your specific needs, budget, and climate conditions rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all solution.

Long-Term Ownership Considerations

Total Cost of Ownership Analysis

Looking beyond the initial purchase price reveals important cost considerations:

Initial Cost vs Longevity Value Calculation

Annualized Cost Comparison:

• Alumawood at $8,000 with 25-year lifespan = $320/year
• Elitewood Classic at $10,000 with 28-year lifespan = $357/year
• Elitewood Ultra at $14,000 with 35-year lifespan = $400/year

When viewed from this perspective, the cost premium for higher-quality options becomes less significant over the full lifetime of the product.

Maintenance Requirements and Costs Over Time

Cleaning Requirements:

• All three products require periodic cleaning (2-4 times per year)
• Basic cleaning with water and mild detergent is sufficient for routine maintenance
• More intensive cleaning for mildew or black streaking may be required in certain climates

Estimated Maintenance Costs:

• DIY maintenance costs are minimal (cleaning supplies)
• Professional cleaning services typically charge $150-300 annually
• Elitewood Ultra may require slightly less frequent cleaning due to superior finishes

Repair Likelihood:

• Alumawood may require minor repairs or touch-ups around year 10-15
• Elitewood Ultra typically requires fewer repairs over its lifetime
• Most repairs relate to sealants at connection points rather than the aluminum itself

Energy Efficiency and Temperature Control

The impact of your patio cover choice on home energy efficiency can be significant:

Quantified Cooling Benefits of Insulated Panels

Temperature Differential Measurements:

• Standard Alumawood solid panels: 8-10°F reduction from direct sun
• Basic insulated panels: 12-15°F reduction
• Elitewood Ultra premium insulated panels: 15-20°F reduction

Heat Transfer to Home: Patio covers attached directly to the home can affect interior temperatures. Measurements in Arizona homes showed that premium insulated patio covers reduced heat transfer to adjacent interior spaces by up to 30% compared to non-insulated covers.

Impact on Home Energy Bills

While difficult to quantify precisely, homeowners report noticeable impacts on cooling costs:

User Reports: Homeowners in hot climates who upgraded from no patio cover to insulated covers reported air conditioning cost reductions of 8-12% for rooms adjacent to the covered patio.

Positioning Matters: Western-facing patios typically see the most significant energy benefit from high-quality insulated covers due to afternoon sun exposure.

Resale Value and ROI Analysis

Patio covers can significantly impact home values, but not all covers are equal:

How Different Patio Cover Options Affect Home Value

Real Estate Expert Insights:

• Well-designed, high-quality patio covers typically return 70-80% of their cost in home value
• Premium patio covers (Elitewood Ultra) may return a higher percentage in luxury home markets
• Poorly designed or deteriorating covers can actually detract from home value

Regional Variances:

• Desert and sunny climates: Higher ROI for premium, insulated covers
• Mild climates: Less differentiation in ROI between options
• Appearance and integration with home architecture become more important factors than pure functionality in higher-end markets

Realtor Quote: “In luxury home markets, buyers expect outdoor living spaces to have the same quality level as interior spaces. Premium patio covers like Elitewood Ultra are more likely to meet those expectations and maintain value.”

Environmental Considerations

Recycling and Sustainability Factors

Both Alumawood and Elitewood have similar environmental profiles as aluminum products:

Recyclability: Aluminum is 100% recyclable with no degradation in quality, making both products environmentally responsible choices at end-of-life.

Recycled Content: Both products typically contain 50-70% recycled aluminum, though specific percentages may vary by manufacturer and product line.

Longevity Impact: The longer lifespan of premium options like Elitewood Ultra reduces replacement frequency, potentially lowering the lifetime environmental impact.

Carbon Footprint Comparison

Manufacturing Energy: The initial production of aluminum is energy-intensive, but this impact is partially offset by:

• The use of recycled content
• The longevity of the products
• The potential energy savings from proper home shading

Transportation Considerations: Locally manufactured or distributed products have a lower carbon footprint from transportation. Some Alumawood products are manufactured regionally, potentially reducing transportation impacts compared to nationally distributed brands.

Energy Savings: Properly designed patio covers reduce home cooling needs, potentially offsetting their manufacturing carbon footprint over their lifetime.

Beyond Alumawood and Elitewood: Alternative Options

Louvered Roof Systems as a Premium Alternative

Louvered roof systems represent a growing alternative that offers adjustable functionality:

Functionality: These systems feature adjustable louvers that can be opened for ventilation or closed for full protection, providing flexibility that fixed covers don’t offer.

Cost Comparison: Typically 40-60% more expensive than Elitewood Ultra for the same coverage area.

Benefits:

• Ability to control sunlight, shade, and ventilation
• Better management of rain with the ability to close completely
• Growing popularity in high-end residential applications

Limitations:

• Higher cost
• More complex mechanical systems that may require maintenance
• Greater structural requirements due to the weight and mechanics

Vinyl and Other Material Options

Alternative materials offer different tradeoffs:

Vinyl Patio Covers:

• Lower initial cost than aluminum options
• Less heat retention than aluminum
• Typically shorter lifespan (15-20 years)
• Fewer style options
• Lower structural strength requiring more supports

Steel Options:

• Greater structural strength
• Higher weight requiring more substantial footings
• More prone to rust in many climates
• Less popular in residential applications

Custom Wood Structures: When They Make Sense

Despite the advantages of aluminum, traditional wood still has its place:

Aesthetic Advantages: Nothing perfectly replicates the warmth and character of real wood, particularly for craftsman, rustic, or very high-end custom homes.

Cost Considerations: Custom wood structures are typically 30-50% more expensive than Elitewood Ultra and require significantly more maintenance.

Maintenance Reality: Requires staining or sealing every 2-3 years to maintain appearance and prevent deterioration.

Best Applications:

• Historic homes where authenticity is important
• Custom architectural designs where specific wood details are desired
• Climates with moderate temperatures and low humidity where wood performs better

Making Your Final Decision

Project Planning Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you’ve considered all key factors:

☐ Identify your primary goals (shade, rain protection, aesthetics, etc.)
☐ Establish a realistic budget including installation
☐ Consider your climate and environmental factors
☐ Determine if you need a solid or lattice cover (or combination)
☐ Research local building codes and HOA restrictions
☐ Obtain at least 3 quotes from different contractors
☐ Check contractor licenses, insurance, and references
☐ Review warranty terms carefully, especially labor coverage
☐ Confirm material specifications (.032″ thickness for structural components)
☐ Consider future needs (lighting, fans, patio expansion)
☐ Evaluate long-term ownership costs, not just initial price

Questions to Ask Your Contractor

Getting the right information from contractors is crucial:

1. “What thickness materials do you use for the posts and beams?” (look for .032″ minimum)
2. “How many of these specific patio covers have you installed?”
3. “Can I see photos or visit previous installations?”
4. “What is the specific warranty coverage for materials AND labor?”
5. “Is fading and chalking covered under warranty?”
6. “How are the electrical needs for fans and lighting handled?”
7. “What maintenance will be required and how often?”
8. “What is your process if there’s an issue after installation?”
9. “Do you pull all required permits, and are they included in the quote?”
10. “What is your payment schedule and is there a satisfaction guarantee?”

Best Times of Year for Installation

Timing your project can affect both cost and quality:

Optimal Installation Seasons:

• Fall and winter typically offer shorter wait times and sometimes better pricing
• Spring and early summer have high demand, longer waits, and sometimes premium pricing
• Very hot periods may affect installation quality as materials expand in extreme heat

Weather Considerations:

• Installation during rainy seasons may result in delays
• Extreme cold can affect some sealants and finishes
• Most experienced crews can work effectively in a wide range of conditions

Planning Timeline:

• For spring/summer installation, contact contractors in winter
• For fall installation, begin your research in mid-summer
• Allow 2-4 weeks for the quoting process
• Expect 2-8 weeks from contract signing to installation, depending on the season and contractor backlog

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Patio Cover for Your Home

The ideal patio cover for your home depends on your specific combination of budget, climate, aesthetic preferences, and long-term plans. Here are the key takeaways to guide your decision:

1. Budget-conscious homeowners in moderate climates will likely find Alumawood offers the best value, with good durability and the widest range of installation options.
2. Homeowners in extreme climates (desert heat, coastal salt exposure) should strongly consider Elitewood Ultra despite the higher initial cost. The superior paint system and optional insulated panels provide significantly better long-term performance in challenging environments.
3. Those seeking maximum customization and a premium appearance will appreciate Elitewood Ultra’s extensive color and style options, which closely mimic the look of real wood with minimal maintenance.
4. DIY-inclined homeowners should note that Alumawood is the only realistic option for self-installation, as Elitewood’s restricted distribution model limits material availability.
5. For long-term value, consider the annualized cost over the expected lifespan rather than just the initial price. Premium options often provide better long-term value when factoring in durability, reduced maintenance, and warranty coverage.
6. Contractor selection matters as much as material selection. Take time to verify credentials, experience, and references regardless of which product you choose.

Remember that a patio cover is a significant investment in your home’s value and your family’s comfort. Taking the time to thoroughly research your options and select the right materials and contractor will pay dividends in satisfaction for years to come.