Should you choose aluminum vs wood patio covers? Both provide shade, but they're very different in performance, maintenance, and aesthetics. There's no universal "best" answer; the right patio cover materials depend on your priorities and lifestyle.

Which Patio Cover Material Is Right for You?

Choose aluminum if:

• Low maintenance is a priority
• You want long-term value
• Durability matters most
• You prefer modern aesthetics
• You want quick installation

Choose wood if:

• Traditional aesthetics are important
• You're willing to maintain it regularly
• You prefer natural warmth
• You want complete design flexibility
• You have a classic home style

Key Differences: Patio Cover Options at a Glance

• Maintenance: Aluminum (virtually none) vs. Wood (annual upkeep)
• Durability: Aluminum (25 to 30+ years) vs. Wood (15 to 20 years)
• Cost: Aluminum lower upfront and long-term
• Installation: Aluminum faster (1 to 3 days vs. 3 to 7 days)
• Climate performance: Aluminum excels in Central Valley heat

Aluminum Patio Covers

What They Are: Powder-coated aluminum construction, often with a wood grain appearance ("Alumawood"). Available in lattice or solid roof options, it is one of the most popular patio cover options today.

Key Benefits:

• Virtually maintenance-free: No painting, staining, or sealing. Occasional washing only.
• Exceptional durability: Won't rot, warp, crack, split, or suffer termite damage. Resistant to UV exposure.
• Long lifespan: 25 to 30+ years with minimal care.
• Cost-effective: Lower upfront cost plus zero maintenance expenses over decades.
• Quick installation: 1 to 3 days typically.
• Fire resistant: Important in California.

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing low maintenance, modern home styles, high sun exposure areas, and busy families wanting hassle-free outdoor living.

Considerations: Wood-grain finishes look manufactured up close. More limited in unique custom designs. Can feel hot to touch in direct sun.

Wood Patio Covers

What They Are: Traditional lumber construction (redwood, cedar, pine, or composite). Custom-built on-site. Can be painted or stained any color.

Key Benefits:

• Natural beauty: Authentic wood grain and warmth.
• Design flexibility: Fully customizable, any size, shape, or configuration.
• Staining/painting options: Change color over time.
• Traditional appeal: Classic look for craftsman, ranch, or traditional homes.

Best For: Traditional home styles, homeowners who enjoy maintenance, custom designs requiring unique shapes, and properties where authentic wood aesthetics matter.

Considerations:

• High maintenance: Requires staining/sealing every 1 to 3 years.
• Susceptible to damage: Rot, warping, cracking, splitting, and termite damage in Central Valley conditions.
• Shorter lifespan: 15 to 20 years even with excellent maintenance.
• Higher long-term cost: Initial cost plus $300 to 500 per year maintenance.
• Weather vulnerability: Central Valley sun accelerates degradation.
• Longer installation: 3 to 7 days for custom build.
• Fire risk: Wood is combustible.

Patio Cover Comparison: Side-by-Side

Maintenance:

• Aluminum: Minimal (occasional washing)
• Wood: High (annual staining/sealing, repairs)

Durability:

• Aluminum: 25 to 30+ years
• Wood: 15 to 20 years with maintenance

Cost (400 sq ft cover):

• Aluminum: $3,000 to $8,000 upfront, minimal ongoing
• Wood: $5,000 to $12,000 upfront, $300 to 500 per year maintenance

Installation:

• Aluminum: 1 to 3 days
• Wood: 3 to 7 days

Aesthetics:

• Aluminum: Clean, modern
• Wood: Warm, traditional

Climate Performance:

• Aluminum: Excellent heat/UV resistance
• Wood: Requires protection from sun

Fire Resistance:

• Aluminum: High
• Wood: Low

Wood vs. Aluminum Patios: Key Do’s and Don’ts

Don’t:

• Choose wood unless you’re ready to maintain it regularly. In the Central Valley sun, neglected wood can deteriorate quickly.
• Dismiss aluminum because of outdated opinions. Modern Alumawood and aluminum options now look much more natural and stylish than older versions.
• Overlook long-term costs. Maintaining real wood can add thousands of dollars over the years.
• Forget about the climate. Central Valley heat makes aluminum a more durable and practical choice.

Do:

• Be honest about your lifestyle. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to spend on maintenance.
• Think about long-term value, not just upfront cost.
• Talk to a professional to find out which material works best for your home and environment.

Choosing the Best Patio Cover Material for Your Central Valley Home

The best patio cover material balances beauty, durability, and maintenance. Aluminum offers long-lasting protection and minimal upkeep, while wood delivers a timeless look that requires regular care. In the Central Valley’s intense sun, aluminum often provides the best long-term value and performance.

Ready to enhance your outdoor space? Contact RFMC Construction for a free consultation. With over 35 years of experience, we’ll help you choose the perfect patio cover material and design a space that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last.