15 Covered Patio Ideas To Get You Outside More (2024)

There’s nothing better than lounging around outside in your backyard or back patio, but when the weather is a bit less than ideal, having some extra shade or shelter from the rain is handy. If you’re hoping to add some coverage to your porch or patio, take a look at these inspiring ideas for clever ways to elevate your outdoor living.

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1. Classic Pergola

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@lullashage

A pergola is a classic way to cover any outdoor space. Intended to support trailing plants or vines, they are a great way to add shade. Add a few slatted supports for extra grip and watch your outdoor space transform into a shady outdoor oasis.

2. Steel Pergola

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Ian Barker Gardens / @ianbarkergardens

If a wooden pergola feels too traditional for your space, consider this corten steel pergola as designed by Ian Barker Gardens. If you want to really capture that indoor/outdoor living feel, install a large sliding glass door for easy access and an uninterrupted view of the greenery.

3. Modern Covered Patio

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Bone Interior Design Studio / @bonedesignstudio

For more modern spaces, consider adding a bit of variety with a less traditional slatting pattern for your shade. This geometric design complements the otherwise subtle space, playing off the geometry of the pendant and the arched opening.

4. Covered Patio for Shallow Spaces

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www.bonniehall.dk / @rum_i_haven

A patio doesn’t need to be deep or fussy to be a beautiful space to occupy. This lush example by Bonnie Hall Garden Design showcases a flourishing garden and subtle pergola painted to match the house. Incorporating pavers and a more organic shape for your beds and pathways will help your patio feel more natural.

5. Carve Out a Corner

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Amy Storm & Company / @amystormandco, @stofferphotographyinteriors

Although pergolas are delightful, it can be nice to have a more hardy roof overhead when you hope to occupy your outdoor space on those cold or rainy days. This beautifully styled patio by Amy Storm & Company is a natural extension of the house with elegant brick columns to match the painted brick exterior.

6. Deep Covered Patio With White Finishes

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@tanner_homes, Brenton Kyle Design Studio / Lark Interiors, @nathanschroderphoto

The crisp white walls and concrete floors keep this space neat and modern while the wood-paneled ceilings add ample visual warmth. A deep patio will provide plenty of shade, but adding a sleek modern fan will ensure even on the hottest days, you’ll be nice and cool.

7. Screened-in Patio

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Amy Storm & Company / @amystormandco, @stofferphotographyinteriors

Nothing says outdoor living quite like a screened-in porch. These motorized retractable shades by Phantom Screen are a sleek way to add in some shade and protect from pests. That extra bit of coverage turns a covered patio into a true outdoor room.

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THIS IS AN ADVERTIsem*nT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisem*nt, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

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8. Private Covered Patio With Slatted Screens

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@bendictehn

A covered patio doesn’t have to mean just covered on the top. For added privacy add slatted screens which also add a great opportunity to hang decor or elegant lights. Build in some sectional seating for a comfortable and put-together look.

9. Vented Pergola for More Control

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@suns.lifestyle / @noplacelikehome2018

A louvered or vented pergola is similar to a regular pergola in that it creates partial shade but with the added benefit of control. Similar to the grilles on the air vents in your home, louvered pergolas allow you to shift the angle of the slats to direct or protect from the sun. Go for a manual system or upgrade to a motorized option like this beautiful louvered enclosure from Suns Lifestyle.

10. Add a Fireplace to Create a Cozy Retreat

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@thepleatedpoppy

Patios are delightful in the warm weather, but they can also be great spaces to spend time in the coldest months if they are well equipped. Add a fireplace to your patio for ample warmth. Plush outdoor furniture and extra warm blankets guarantee a comfortable outdoor space all year round.

11. Brighten Up Your Patio With Pretty Lighting

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Ian Barker Gardens / @ianbarkergardens

While the sun will light up any outdoor space, be sure to include a few outdoor lights in your patio budget. A dramatic pendant or outdoor chandelier is a great way to elevate your outdoor zone day and night. Just be sure any fixture you choose is properly rated for outdoor use.

12. Add Natural Textures

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Simon Bosch Photography / @simonboschphotographynl

Don’t let yards have all the fun, add a bit of covered space to your balcony or patio. Without the softness of a grassy yard, it’s important to balance your architectural addition with some natural textures. Potted plants, pavers and gravel or pebbles will keep your space feeling fresh and comfortable.

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13. Let in Some Light

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Brooke Wagner Design / @brookewagnerdesign

If you can’t quite decide between a more open pergola or covered roof for your outdoor space, consider adding a roof with skylights. Outdoor curtains also allow for flexibility with how bright or private the space feels.

14. Use Your Patio for Outdoor Cooking

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Blackband Design, Craig Hampton, Graystone Custom Builders. Ryan Garvin

Covered patios are a shoo-in for outdoor dining, but why not add some space for outdoor cooking as well? A covered patio allows space for grilling all year, rain or shine, or take it up a notch with a full kitchen and dining space.

15. Consider a Natural Look

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Ian Barker Gardens / @ianbarkergardens

Why go architectural with your covered patio when you could opt for a more natural route? A tree may be the more organic option, but this clever trellis design by Ian Barker Gardens is sure to inspire and also bring a bit of shade.

15 Covered Patio Ideas To Get You Outside More (2024)

FAQs

How to make your patio more inviting? ›

Adding a trellis for a more secluded feel is a good outdoor patio idea. Then furnish the patio space with chairs and a table with an umbrella. Consider a bistro table set if you're working with limited square footage. Finally, add an outdoor rug and mounted lanterns to amplify the cozy atmosphere.

How can I make my patio more interesting? ›

Cushions, outdoor curtains, and tablecloths offer the opportunity to add color and exuberance to your patio spaces. If you're looking for an easy way to brighten up your patio, try introducing a colorful new fabric or set of cushions for your outdoor furniture. Fabric is easily swapped out, so go wild.

Is a covered patio worth it? ›

Adding a patio cover or building a covered patio can offer tons of value-added outdoor living benefits. A covered space brings style and better (and perhaps more frequent) use of your backyard living space.

How much does it cost to cover a 20x20 patio? ›

Covered patio cost by size
SizeSquare footageAverage cost installed*
16'x16'256$12,800 – $38,400
20'x20'400$20,000 – $60,000
24'x24'576$28,800 – $86,400
24'x36'864$43,200 – $129,600
4 more rows
Oct 13, 2023

What is the least expensive option for a patio? ›

What is the most budget-friendly DIY patio material? Packed gravel is the lowest-cost option. Gravel is inexpensive, and installation involves digging, tamping, spreading, and adding borders. It's a fast way to add usable backyard space.

How can I get more outdoors? ›

How to Make It Happen
  1. Schedule a solo walk, or plan to go with a colleague. Try to get out once a day, even if only for a few minutes. ...
  2. Take phone calls outside. ...
  3. Move small meetings to outdoor seating areas, such as picnic tables. ...
  4. Eat outside. ...
  5. Try walking meetings. ...
  6. Bring your work outside. ...
  7. Just take a short break.

How to make a patio cozier? ›

Bring on the cozy feeling with your favorite soft accents. Pillows, blankets, and rugs are all an easy way to transform your outdoor space into a snuggly oasis. Using these soft materials in juxtaposition with your furniture and the outdoors mimics your inside living spaces and adds so much to the coziness of it all.

What is the best size for a covered patio? ›

We recommend a minimum of 25 square feet per person. So, if you plan to host 15 people- plan for a space around 375 sq. ft. We recommend a patio around 550 square feet for comfortable entertaining.

What is the best shape for a patio? ›

The rectilinear patio is the most popular shape. It's often easier to create a square or rectangular patio, partly because the majority of pavers are a rectilinear design. By choosing this shape patio, you have more freedom when choosing a paver style. Rectilinear patio shapes lend a more contemporary feel.

Does a covered patio add value? ›

That said, it's estimated that well-designed patios not only add 8-10% home value, but also earn an ROI of over 80%. A better option for most homeowners, however, would be to refinish or repair an existing patio, as repair estimates average around $1,400.

What is the best material for a covered patio? ›

Steel – Robust, long-lasting, well-priced and has a modern clean look and feel. Vinyl – Offers a natural look and feel, is relatively inexpensive, low maintenance and weather resistant. Fabric – Inexpensive, easy to install, but prone to damage and weather, ideal as a temporary solution.

What is the difference between a covered porch and a covered patio? ›

The major difference between a porch and a patio is that one is attached to your house and the other is a separate space. Additionally, porches have roofs while patios do not. While porches can be located on the front, side, or back of a home, patios are most often only on the side or the back.

How can I enclose my patio cheap? ›

The cheapest way to enclose a patio depends on your specific needs and preferences. Options such as screened-in patios, outdoor curtains, polycarbonate or corrugated roof panels, bamboo or reed fencing, and tarps or shade sails can help you create an affordable, comfortable, and functional outdoor living space.

How can I cover my patio floor cheap? ›

If your patio floor is worn, faded, or needs an upgrade, you can cover the patio with tiles. These coverings are available in many different materials, from the cheap and inexpensive to the more expensive investments.

What is the cheapest surface for a patio? ›

Gravel is the cheapest option when looking to create a patio on a budget. Otherwise, pebbles or reclaimed materials are also good options. If you're set on laying paving slabs, concrete is one of the cheapest materials, and when installed and maintained correctly, it can hold up well and last for years.

What is the cheapest material for a patio roof? ›

A fabric canopy, such as a retractable awning or a shade sail, is an affordable and flexible option for patio roofing. These can be easily installed and removed and come in various colors and shapes. Fabric canopies provide shade and protection from light rain, but they may not be as durable as solid roofing materials.

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