A patio is a coveted feature in any house. If you are the type of person who likes to entertain friends and spend time around nature, a patio will be a great addition to your property.
However, patios are often open spaces which means that you are not protected from environmental elements such as wind, rain, snow, and bugs and insects. You may not be able to use your patio, which can be a costly investment, all year long.
Enclosing a patio will allow you to spend time in the space even when it is too hot or too cold outside. Here are your options if you want to enclose your existing patio:
Windows
Windows allow you to enjoy the outdoors no matter what the weather may be. A home window tinting can help regulate the indoor temperature of your patio. It blocks the sunlight and, therefore, the heat when it is sunny outside but keeps the space warm when it gets too cold during winter.
Other types of window covering can be used, too, to control the amount of sunlight that enters the space. Shades and shutters are two of the most common types of window coverings for enclosed patios.
If you live in a city that regularly experiences storms and strong winds, you need to invest in durable windows. This is, however, the most expensive option. You would need the help of a professional to install the right kind of window to your patio.
Screens
Screens provide a similar effect to open patios. You can still enjoy the cool breeze and the warm sunlight during spring and summer. However, you are still protected from blood-sucking mosquitoes and houseflies that become more active when the weather is nice.
Adding screens to an already covered patio should not be too difficult nor too costly. You can add metal or wood screens around the space on your own.
Clear Vinyl
The cheapest and easiest option is clear vinyl. By simply hanging clear vinyl curtains, you can enjoy your enclosed patio without dealing with environmental elements. Aside from being affordable and quick to install, clear vinyl curtains are versatile. You can hang the panels on rainy days and whenever the insects become active or roll them up when it is sunny and warm outside.
Moreover, like glass windows, clear vinyl allows you to see the view outside without any obstructions.
Covering an Uncovered Patio
The options above only work if your patio already has a built-in roof or a covering. However, if your patio is uncovered, there are still ways to provide the space some shade.
A retractable awning, which you can open or use depending on the weather, is a versatile solution to an uncovered patio. Prefabricated canvas gazebos and canopies would also give you overhead protection from environmental elements while keeping the costs low.
A creative solution is to use lush vines as a canopy. Although it will not block rain or snow, it will lessen the amount of sunlight that reaches the patio. Moreover, it is an additional design element to the space. If you want a permanent cover, you may use metal, wood, or glass as roofing.
An enclosed patio gives you more space to relax and bond with family and friends. Now that you are protected from environmental elements, you use your patio throughout the year.
