How much does a patio cover cost?

Multiple variables — the type of patio cover, the material, whether it's insulated, etc. — determine how expensive your patio cover or roof will be. However, one of the most important factors is the cost of labor in your region. 

Read this guide to learn what can impact the cost of your patio cover or awning installation. Then, reach out to local patio cover companies or awning professionals to compare price quotes for your project.

If you currently have a patio, it might be time to install a cover or awning. Or, it might be time to upgrade your existing cover with a better one. 

However, before you begin this project, you need to budget appropriately for it. And to do that, you need to understand the factors that play into its total cost. Here are the biggest cost factors that will impact how expensive or affordable your patio cover project will be.

Size

If you have a large patio, it’s tempting to have the entire area shielded from the elements. You might also want to extend the roof beyond the edges of the patio to provide extra protection from the rain and sun. These are all valid desires — but they also cost more.

A larger patio cover not only means more materials, but it can also require more advanced engineering to support larger spans. The types of materials also change as you plan for larger spans. For example, a solid wood beam might have covered one distance, but you may now need metal beams to span a larger space.

Type

Patio covers on the market today range from simple canvas awnings to more elaborate wooden lattice-style structures. In many cases, awnings tend to be more cost-friendly when compared to patio covers.

A patio cover can be built onto the house as a lean-to or as a freestanding structure. The type of structure and material (wood, vinyl, aluminum, etc.) you want will inevitably play a leading role in a patio cover's overall cost.

Labor costs

You will need to choose how you want to install your patio cover. Will you be undertaking it as a do-it-yourself project, or will you hire a contractor to take care of the installation process? The latter obviously costs more but is often the best option for those with busy schedules or who aren’t experienced with construction and installation.

While DIY kits do exist, hiring a pro to install your patio ensures the job will get done right and the structure will stand up to the elements for years to come. Contact patio cover and awning installers in your local area to find out how much it will cost you.

There are several different types of patio covers to complement your home and make the most out of your outdoor living areas. If your house and patio are already built, you might consider an add-on or freestanding structure — or perhaps you’re building a house and want a covered patio incorporated into the design of the structure.

The following sections cover different types of patio covers, awnings and structures to choose from, along with their estimated prices (based on an online search at various retailers).

Awnings can help protect your household from the sun, rain (they’re often waterproof) and wind when you’re spending time out on your patio. Here’s a look at the different prices you can expect if you’re considering a fixed or retractable patio awning.

Retractable awning cost

Retractable awnings can be great patio covers, and they can also provide shade over storefronts, decks, porches and walkways. Retractable awning prices can range from around $180-$3,400 or more. 

Unlike with fixed awnings, you can move a retractable awning’s position either manually or automatically. And, these awnings come in various different materials, including vinyl, metal and acrylic. 

Fixed awning prices

A fixed (or stationary) awning is what its name implies — it stays fixed in one position. Depending on which size and material you choose, fixed awnings can range anywhere from $35 (for smaller awnings that are typically more suitable for windows and entryways) to $4,000 or more.

Prices for solid roof patio covers range anywhere from approximately $200-$4,000 — or more. The wide cost range is due mostly to the different material and size options you’ll find.

Whether built onto a house or freestanding, a solid patio cover can provide protection from overhead weather thanks to a complete roof system. You may also want to consider an insulated solid patio cover that can also reduce noise. 

A lattice patio cover or awning is a popular design option. You’ll likely find options that range from $1,400-$6,000 in price. 

Typically made out of wood, lattice patio covers offer partial protection from the weather and elements. This style can take several shapes and designs to suit a range of tastes. 

Next up are some of the materials you can choose from when designing the perfect patio cover or awning:

Wood patio cover prices

The simplest and easiest material to work with is wood, which has been used for millennia and has a timeless appeal. An online search found that some wooden patio covers (not including awnings) can cost anywhere from $4,500-$14,000, depending on the brand and manufacturer. 

Still, wooden patio covers are a good choice due to their versatility and relatively low cost. They can also be treated, painted and stained to better withstand weather and humidity. Consider choosing a wooden patio cover if the rest of your house is made from wood or if the design includes a latticed cover.

However, remember that wood structures often require maintenance, so be sure to stay on top of any cleaning, staining and painting advice your contractor (or the manufacturer) provides.

Aluminum patio cover cost

Aluminum awning and patio cover prices may range from roughly $200-$8,000 or more. Again, it all depends on the size, brand (like Alumawood, for example) and sometimes even the color you choose. 

Aluminum is a common material used for patio covers because it’s lightweight, durable and flexible, making it a forgiving and agreeable material to work with. Because it’s highly resistant to corrosion, aluminum is a solid low-maintenance option for long-lasting patios.

Vinyl patio covers cost

You may find vinyl patio covers and awnings for roughly $800-$5,800. Vinyl patio covers can be long-lasting (they don’t warp or rot), low-maintenance and budget-friendly.

But there are a few things to note. For starters, vinyl is susceptible to UV damage. For this reason, it’s important to check with the manufacturer to find out what steps you should take to prevent discoloration and fading. 

It costs approximately $1,000-$9,000 to build a pergola. Pergolas are a classic backyard and garden feature with beams made of metal or wood that extend outward from columns or walls. They typically support a lattice roof above. Pergolas are attractive because the shadows they lay on the ground change with the angle of the sun.

A patio cover or awning could be the last piece your outdoor seating area needs to make it feel complete. Here are the key reasons why it’s worth investing in some type of covering for your patio: 

• You can enjoy the outdoors in many types of weather — not just on clear, sunny days.
• You may be able to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements (however, you could provide more protection by also investing in furniture covers). 
• Patio covers are aesthetically pleasing and can add charm, elegance and curb appeal to your home.
• Patio covers and awnings can be very low-maintenance, depending on the materials.

You can start searching for professionals to install your patio cover or awning by using Thumbtack. You’ll be able to see a list of installation experts in one place so you can compare them all by their ratings, reviews and past work. 

When you contact pros to request free estimates, have your patio dimensions ready, as well as what type and style of patio cover you want. Compare their price quotes and decide which company (or contractor) is best suited for your project and is charging a fair price. 

Also read: How to hire a contractor.

If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor space, it’s time to contact a pro. Find a patio cover installer near you on Thumbtack, and get excited about creating an outdoor area where you and your household and guests can relax and enjoy.