A natural and cozy atmosphere in your own garden - a wooden patio roof makes this possible. It not only offers protection, but also wonderfully enhances the outdoor area.
But which wood is best suited for a patio roof? In this blog post, we will give you an overview of the most popular types of wood. We will also discuss the respective advantages and disadvantages.Why choose wood for your patio roof?
Wood is a popular material for patio roofs. Here are the three most important reasons:
- Naturalness: Wood has a warm, inviting aesthetic and blends harmoniously into the environment.
- Flexibility: It can be easily shaped, cut and customized to create a unique design.
- Sustainability: The impact on the environment can be reduced by using the right wood from sustainable sources.
Which wood is best?
The selection of types of wood suitable for covering a terrace is huge. Here are the best options in our opinion, along with their advantages and disadvantages:
> Douglas fir
Douglas fir is durable and not very expensive. It is also naturally resistant to pests and rot. The disadvantage: it requires regular care. If it is not treated, it can turn grey over the years.
> larch
Larch is also very durable and resistant to insects and rot. Its unique color gives the roof a warm touch. The disadvantage: without treatment it can turn gray - similar to Douglas fir.
> oak
Oak is extremely robust and durable. Its distinctive grain gives a roof a stylish look. The disadvantage: it is significantly more expensive than other types of wood.
> Bangkirai (Yellow Balau)
Hardwood from the tropics lasts for several decades and is very resistant to all kinds of weather. However, it is much more expensive and heavier than types of wood from our region.
> Thermowood
The wood is stabilized through a special heating process and is therefore less susceptible to deformation or cracking. It is also very resistant to rot. The disadvantage: the production process leads to an increased price.
What treatment and care is necessary?
No matter which type of wood you choose, regular maintenance is essential. To enjoy your patio roof for a long time, treating the wood correctly is essential.
A glaze not only protects the wood from UV rays, but also prevents it from turning grey. Oils protect against moisture and preserve the natural colour of the wood. And regular cleaning not only removes dirt, moss and algae, but also prevents cracks or splinters.
What should you pay attention to when choosing wood?
When choosing wood for a patio roof, you should consider not only the type of wood, but also the type of construction. The aesthetic effect and longevity of your roof will vary depending on the construction.
Lean-to roof, flat roof or gable roof - there are a variety of roof shapes. Depending on what you choose, the amount of light that enters your patio area varies. When planning, you should also consider what additional features you want to integrate, such as lighting or speakers.
If you are unsure about which type of wood or construction to choose, ask an expert such as an architect or carpenter. They often have valuable advice and can help you make the best decision for your outdoor space and within your budget.
Which materials combine well with wood?
Both glass and metal combine beautifully with wood. A glass roof or side glass elements can provide more light and brighten the space under the patio cover. Metal reinforcements can provide additional stability and metal decorations add a modern touch.
In our opinion, powder-coated aluminum is the best choice, which is why we offer a comprehensive range of pergolas made exclusively from this material. In another blog post, we give you useful tips for using pergolas in different types and styles.
What about the sustainability of wood?
When purchasing wood, it is advisable to look for sustainability certificates such as FSC or PEFC. If wood has such a certificate, it comes from responsibly managed forests that meet environmental and social standards.
Compared to concrete or steel, wood is a renewable material and therefore has a smaller carbon footprint. However, transporting tropical woods such as Bangkirai (Yellow Balau) over long distances is less environmentally friendly than local wood species.
What costs can be expected?
The type of wood, the size of the roof, the construction and any additional features will determine the price of your patio roof. It is therefore advisable to obtain several quotes and compare prices before you make a decision. Don't forget to consider long-term costs such as maintenance.
Conclusion
A wooden patio cover can add a stylish atmosphere to your outdoor area while also being functional. To ensure that your cover lasts for many years, we recommend that you do your research and plan carefully.
Deciding which wood to use for your patio cover depends on your budget, preferences and requirements. Regardless of the type of wood, it is important to take good care of and maintain the material. With the right choice and care, your wooden patio cover will be an attractive and functional part of your outdoor space in the long term.
Our skilled team at Sky Pergola is always ready to offer expertise and creative ideas to help you bring your vision to life. We strive to create long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solutions that transform our clients' outdoor living space into an inviting paradise.
