50 Stylish Patio Cover Ideas (For All Budgets)

Patio cover kits remove the hassle of designing a patio cover by leaving that work to their manufacturer's architectural experts. You follow the instructions and build it, removing the guesswork. The pre-made kits come in many budget, size, and style options. Some kits require you to buy the materials, while others include everything.

The simplest way to add shade to a patio or any outdoor space is by opening an umbrella. Just make sure it is sturdy and anchored by a weighted holder or it will be gone with the next big wind!

A retractable awning gives you the option to cover and uncover your patio at will. Most are attached to one part of the side of the home. Some are motorized and others are wind-up. You can keep them closed during winter and bad weather, but during sunny days they cover up with the best of them.

Natural tiki thatching works best in a dry, hot, and windy climate. Synthetic thatch doesn't look as authentic as the real thing, but it will hold up better if you live in a humid climate.

Pergolas are a nice alternative to entirely enclosed coverings, especially if your home's interior windows lack for sun exposure. To save timber costs for a wooden pergola, enlarging the openings between slats. You can also save some money by considering an aluminum or vinyl pergola. Redwood pergolas are gorgeous but are one of the more expensive choices.