Patios provide great entertaining areas. There’s nothing better than enjoying the outdoors while being protected from the harsh elements. The types of patios on the market are simply astounding. From domes to pyramids, timber-lined to gable, there’s a massive range of roof designs, materials and insulation solutions to suit every climate and taste.

Patio Roof Design

• Flat: This type of patio is the traditional style. Easier to install and a great budget option, flat roofed patios are still very popular.
• Gable: The gabled patio roof has sloping sides that meet to a pitch in the middle. They’re considered by many to be more attractive than the flat roof and allow more light to enter the structure. With better air flow, they feel more open and can provide for better views.
• Dome: A modern design, the dome patio has a curved roof. It is very stylish and can complement certain styles of homes perfectly.
• Pyramid: This recent innovation brings the roof together into a single point, resembling the shape of a pyramid. They give a sense of being more open and offer an extremely attractive design.

Patio Materials

Patios can come in a range of roofing materials, including: colourbond; polycarbonate; zincalume; and even thatch for a distinctive look. Skylights can also be incorporated into the roof to allow more light. Most products today are essentially maintenance free and resistant to termites, water, UV light and harsh weather conditions.

Patio posts also come in a range of materials, including: timber, steel and aluminium. You are able to enclose the patios with mesh and other materials, keeping out the weather and insects when needed. Specialist patio suppliers can also add pillars to your patio to give it that extra feature.

Patio Insulation

To provide additional comfort, patios now come insulated. This extra component keeps the patio cooler, adds significantly to its overall appearance, and prevents condensation that can harm patio structures. One type of insulation is solar span. This is where colourbond is bonded to a solid polystyrene core. Another option is different types of timber lining with insulation placed between it and the roof. Homeowners also have a choice of using plantation hardwood – a more sustainable timber.