When building an outdoor patio cover or shade structure, there are three primary materials to choose from: wood, vinyl, and aluminum.

Here’s what you need to know about each:

• The wood looks great but doesn’t hold up. Wood in today’s market comes from all fast-grown trees, which doesn’t stand the test of time because its fiber density is too loose. Plus, regardless of the age of the lumber, wood patio covers must be painted every few years. Wood patio covers are highly flammable; they tend to warp, crack, peel, and rot and attract termites (especially here in Southern California).
• Vinyl is easy to maintain but looks cheap. Vinyl patio covers look like plastic, tend to warp and fade over time, are not available in the range of earth tones colors used in residential home exterior décor, and can’t be refinished to a more suitable color. Plus, they’re costly – often the highest-cost option available.
• Alumawood combines the best of all worlds. Alumawood is a high-quality roll-formed aluminum with a richly textured wood grain finish. It comes in seven popular pre-painted designer colors, is nearly maintenance-free, and can be installed with up to 20 to 30 feet between posts, ensuring unobstructed views.