As the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living continue to blur, the importance of creating a functional and inviting outdoor space has never been greater. Whether you’re seeking a secluded retreat for relaxation or a stylish setting for entertaining guests, the choice between a fully covered patio and a pergola can significantly impact the ambiance and functionality of your outdoor oasis. 

In this article, we’ll delve into the unique benefits of each option, from shelter and privacy to aesthetics and versatility, to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. 

Custom Outdoor Patios

Flexibility in Design: Crafting a Personalized Outdoor Retreat

Patios add functional outdoor living space to your home on a base level. This is especially valuable in areas like Texas, where the weather (and the cooling features and heaters) make spending time outside all year long possible. Potential buyers are looking for ways to enjoy the outdoors, and a spacious, well-equipped patio provides that sought-after space for entertaining, relaxing, and cooking. This added value is especially appealing to families with young children.

Shelter from the Elements: The Full Covered Patio Advantage

When considering a full covered patio, one of its primary advantages lies in its ability to provide comprehensive protection from the elements. With a solid roof structure, this option shields you from harsh sunlight, heavy rain, and strong winds. Regardless of weather conditions, a covered patio ensures that your outdoor space remains comfortable and inviting, allowing you to enjoy al fresco living year-round.

Privacy and Seclusion: Creating Intimacy with a Covered Patio

Beyond weather protection, a full covered patio offers the added benefit of privacy. Its enclosed design creates a secluded sanctuary where you can unwind and entertain without worrying about prying eyes or external disturbances. Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue or enjoying a quiet moment with a book, the privacy afforded by a covered patio enhances the overall enjoyment of your outdoor experience.

Versatility and Customization: Tailoring Your Outdoor Oasis

Another advantage of a full covered patio lies in its versatility and customization options. From integrating ceiling fans and lighting fixtures to incorporating outdoor heating systems, the possibilities for personalization are endless. Whether you envision cozy evenings by the fireplace or lively gatherings under the stars, a covered patio serves as a blank canvas where you can bring your outdoor oasis dreams to life.

Pergolas

Timeless Charm: The Allure of the Pergola

In contrast, a pergola boasts unique benefits, starting with its timeless charm and architectural appeal. Characterized by an open-roof structure supported by columns, a pergola adds an elegant touch to your outdoor space, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. With its classic design, a pergola serves as a captivating focal point that enhances the overall aesthetic of your backyard.

Natural Ventilation: Enjoying the Breezy Comfort of a Pergola

One of the key advantages of a pergola is its promotion of natural ventilation. Thanks to its open-roof design, a pergola allows air to circulate freely, creating a cool and breezy atmosphere, particularly ideal for warm climates. Whether you’re lounging with a refreshing drink or dining al fresco, the natural ventilation provided by a pergola ensures that your outdoor experience remains comfortable and enjoyable.

Whether you opt for the sheltered intimacy of a full-covered patio or the airy elegance of a pergola, both options promise to transform your outdoor space into a haven of comfort and style. Contact us today to talk through your personal preferences, requirements, and budget considerations and we can help you make a choice you will love for years to come. 

Get started on your backyard transformation by clicking here to book your free consultation today.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Pinterest

If you’re looking to upgrade your patio in 2024, you may wonder if the investment can increase the value of your home. The truth is that a well-designed and constructed patio can make a big difference when it’s time to sell your home. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, a patio is the #2 most desirable feature in a home–and they’re willing to pay for it. 

Understanding the Appeal 

Patios add functional outdoor living space to your home on a base level. This is especially valuable in areas like Texas, where the weather (and the cooling features and heaters) make spending time outside all year long possible. Potential buyers are looking for ways to enjoy the outdoors, and a spacious, well-equipped patio provides that sought-after space for entertaining, relaxing, and cooking. This added value is especially appealing to families with young children.

An Added Plus Beyond Square Footage

While a covered patio or even a poolhouse or screened-in porch increases the livable space in your home, it will not increase the square footage when you list it. However, upgrades like an outdoor kitchen can help increase the price per square foot. House Beautiful even ranks outdoor gathering areas as one of the top five features that make a home sell over the asking price. 

Curb Appeal Matters–Even in the Backyard 

Often, when we think of curb appeal, we think of the front yard. But the same is true for the backyard. Whether it’s a fully covered patio or an elegant pergola, it can enhance the overall look of your home, adding to its curb appeal and making it more attractive to potential buyers. 

Don’t Underestimate the Personal Value

A custom patio is, more than anything, meant for you to enjoy exactly as you would like to by providing a place for the outdoor activities and hobbies you enjoy. But more likely than not, you’ll find someone who shares your interests. Potential buyers who enjoy grilling, gardening, or even just lounging in the sun, know that a patio is the perfect space to pursue these interests. 

Also, remember that while a TCP-built patio cover with shingles will last the life of your home, a pergola, depending on maintenance, has a more limited lifespan. 

Overall, upgrading your patio can be a great investment in increasing your home’s value. Not only does it add functional outdoor living space, but it can also improve the appearance of your property and provide a gathering place for parties and get-togethers. So if you’re looking to build a new patio, consider how it can add value to your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Get started on your backyard transformation by clicking here to book your free consultation today.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Pinterest

Integrating a patio with a pool for our April Project of the Month.

In Texas, shade in the backyard is mandatory. To enjoy their outdoor space, these homeowners came to us for an escape from the sun and updates to their existing pool. They needed something more permanent than a cumbersome umbrella they had to replace yearly.

So, we set out to design a space focused on comfort, a total transformation built for unwinding, cooking, and dining. We’ll walk you through the updates we made to create the new 550 SF patio.

Let’s start with the pool. We completely updated the decking and removed the pea gravel. 

Before

Integrating the Pool and Patio

• Outdoor-rated porcelain Keystone Tile extends throughout the entire space, bringing the pool and patio together.

The Vaulted Ceilings

• The vaulted ceiling is a pre-stained tongue and groove chosen to complement the existing siding on the house.

Bromic Heaters for Usage Year-round.

• Sleek, understated Bromic heaters were added to ensure the space could be used year-round, even during our coldest Texas winters.

Adding the Full Outdoor Kitchen for the Ultimate Dining Experience

• The outdoor kitchen has a triple burner Le Griddle, doors, and drawers from Cunningham Living. 
• The Aspen White granite countertop from Daltile was extended to create additional seating behind the bar.  

Now, with all the comforts of home, the patio is now the family’s favorite room of the home. 

Get started on your backyard transformation by clicking here to book your free consultation today.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Pinterest