"I found him hard to work with (e.g. doesn't listen, pushy about doing it his way.) I was really hesitant after the estimate but he just kept pushing about it and I didn't have any other options - but I was sorry afterwards. I don't really like it, the quality doesn't seem great - but most important, it's not level. Drives me crazy and looks bad - just three panels and it's not level! Makes me nuts looking at it - feels like I threw my money away."
Metal awnings last much longer than fabric thanks to their durability and resistance to fading, sun damage, and damage from the outside elements. They also need less maintenance than fabric options. Both items add curb appeal to your home, but you shouldn't expect either type of awning to add property value to your home.
The least expensive way to enclose a porch is with screens. These protect the room by preventing insects from entering and, if you live in a warm climate, provide excellent airflow during hot summer months. Screens cost far less than any other alternative, so if you are against getting permits, spending too much, or enclosing your porch in walls or glass, screens are the best choice.
Aluminum patio roofs can make noise during rainstorms, though how much noise they make depends on how heavy it’s raining and if the roof is insulated or not. Light rain falling on your roof might sound soothing but if you live in an area with serious and consistent rainfall, the novelty of the sound might wear off. In any case, the rain you'll hear shouldn't sound louder than a normal conversation or air conditioner, about 50 dB to 55 dB.
Hurricane fabric is a temporary form of hurricane protection that offers an alternative to boarding up windows or installing traditional storm panels. It is installed over windows, doors, and other openings before a storm. When installed properly, hurricane fabric is tested and proven to protect homes from Category 5 hurricanes, which can have winds over 157 miles per hour. It is intended to block the majority of wind and rain and protect against water, debris, and projectile damage. While the fabric is exceptionally durable, windows can still break if hit directly by high-velocity debris. Compared to other options, hurricane fabric is more protective than hurricane window film. Boarding up windows is more labor-intensive and requires storing heavy plywood, while hurricane screens are permanently attached to your home. To further increase protection, you can take additional steps like securing outdoor items and fortifying your home's foundation.
The cheapest material for covering a tennis court is rubber or clay. Rubber needs to be installed over a concrete or asphalt base, however, which can make the project more expensive up-front (but cheaper to resurface over time). Clay courts are among the most affordable, but they aren’t the best to play on and require a lot of maintenance.
The Stephen, MN homeowners’ guide to patio cover services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
In the market for some summer sun covers or looking to expand your indoor living space? Patio covers are the key to keeping cool while enjoying the outdoors.
Protect your patio furniture all year long from UV rays, moisture, mildew, dirt, and wind with these seven easy-to-follow tips, and enjoy lasting protection.
