Alumawood patio covers can last for many years if properly maintained. With regular cleaning, sealing, and painting, the covers can last for up to 15-20 years. However, if you intend on not maintaining them, the lifespan may be drastically reduced, at around 3-5 years.
A well-maintained Alumawood patio cover can also last up to 40 years with proper protective treatment and maintenance. Additionally, Alumawood patio covers are treated to be resistant to moisture and insects, making them a great option for longevity of your outdoor space.
How much weight can an Alumawood patio cover hold?
The weight an Alumawood patio cover can hold depends on the structural load capacity of the support posts and the specific components of the patio cover. Generally speaking, columns, beams and other structural components of Alumawood patio covers support up to about 25 lbs of distributed load per square foot for typical residential applications.
This means that a 16’ x 20’ patio cover can safely support up to about 4,000 lbs of distributed weight. However, for commercial applications, the loads can be significantly higher, so it is important to make sure that any Alumawood patio cover you choose is rated for the intended application.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to include additional reinforcements and bracing when needed to improve the overall structural integrity of the Alumawood patio cover.
Is Alumawood better than vinyl?
The answer to whether Alumawood is better than vinyl will depend on the individual’s purpose and budget. Vinyl fencing is generally more cost-effective than Alumawood and may be the better choice for those working on a tight budget.
It has the advantage of being lower in maintenance than wood and is more resistant to decay and weathering. However, if the aim is to give the home a classic look, then it may be best to go with an Alumawood fence.
Alumawood is an aluminum-encased wood material that provides the look and feel of real wood without the same maintenance requirements. It is also highly durable and long-lasting. Additionally, Alumawood is available in a wide range of colors, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect match for their property.
So, when considering whether Alumawood is better than vinyl, the individual should take into account their individual needs and preferences – both financial and aesthetic – to make the best choice.
Can I walk on my aluminum patio cover?
No, it is not recommended to walk on your aluminum patio cover. Aluminum patio covers are not designed to support human weight, and any additional force on the structure could cause it to buckle or collapse.
It is best to use the patio area for seating, entertaining guests and enjoying the outdoors. If additional space is needed for items such as additional seating, have a professional construct an additional structure with adequate support measures to accommodate the additional weight.
Keeping your aluminum patio cover free of large amounts of weight is the best way to ensure it stays in good condition to provide shade and protection from the elements.
What is the longest lasting patio material?
The longest lasting patio material is concrete. Concrete is the most durable option available, providing lasting value and protection from the elements. Its longevity makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls.
With proper installation and maintenance, a concrete patio can easily last for decades. It is also low maintenance, requiring occasional sweeping and cleaning but little else. If a crack or divot appears, it is easily fixed with a quick patch job.
Concrete is relatively low cost and is customizable to fit any personal designs. It can be colored, stamped, textured, or stained to provide a beautiful aesthetic. While a concrete patio may need to be resealed every two or three years to remain in good condition, the overall cost is still lower than many other materials such as pavers or wood.
Concrete is a sound choice for anyone looking for long-lasting material to build an outdoor living space.
Is Alumawood loud in the rain?
No, Alumawood is not loud in the rain. Alumawood is an aluminum shade structure that looks like wood and is designed to offer protection from the elements, including rain. As it is a solid material composed of tough aluminum, you can expect it to stay quiet even in the rain.
This is unlike wooden structures, which tend to expand and contract due to moisture and temperature changes, resulting in a loud noise when it rains. Furthermore, Alumawood is designed to be weather-resistant, preventing water from pooling on it and creating a loud noise.
In other words, Alumawood can withstand the rain without being loud or producing any uncomfortable sounds.
Can you attach things to Alumawood?
Yes, you can attach things to Alumawood. This material is a lightweight, mill finish aluminum alloy that is very easy to work with. It is also very strong, so you can securely attach items to it without worrying about them being easily pulled off.
All that you need for attaching items is corrosion-resistant hardware, like stainless steel screws and bolts, and a drill. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact type of hardware that you should be using for a particular installation.
Additionally, depending on the type of item you are attaching, you may want to use a sealant, or even padding, between the item and the Alumawood to create a better bond and reduce vibrations.
Does Alumawood get hot?
Yes, Alumawood can get hot when exposed to direct sunlight. The material is made from aluminum and has a similar heat absorption properties of other aluminum products. The heat-reflective properties of the material do help to mitigate the amount of heat Alumawood absorbs but the aluminum does transfer the heat from the sun to the outer surface, making it warmer than its surroundings if exposed to direct sunlight.
To help reduce the amount of heat absorbed, it is recommended that Alumawood patios get some kind of covering or shade, such as an awning, when exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of day.
Additionally, if the Alumawood patio is near any other heat sources, such as a fire pit or bbq, the heat can be further dissipated and not allowed to buildup in one area.
Is Alumawood heat resistant?
Yes, Alumawood is heat resistant. One of its biggest benefits is that it is a thermal barrier; unlike many other materials, it does not absorb and transfer heat. This means it is able to provide shade and keep temperatures inside much cooler than other materials, without needing to be constantly monitored throughout the day.
Additionally, the finish of Alumawood helps it to reflect heat, keeping wooden surfaces underneath it safe from damage. Alumawood can help to reduce indoor temperatures by up to 15 degrees, so it is a great choice for outdoor spaces where constant high temperatures are expected.