Skip to content 
Patios and Decks are perfect for making the most of your outdoor space. They allow you to enjoy your home’s natural surroundings while still feeling cozy and private. For a lot of homeowners, the patio isn’t just an addition—it’s a key part of the home. Some people build patios to blend seamlessly with their living space, making the indoors and outdoors flow together. Others prefer to create a separate outdoor retreat that feels like its own little escape.
At Level Up Contractor, a trusted construction company in Los Angeles, CA, we specialize in designing and building custom patios that match your lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re planning a backyard makeover or adding a patio cover in Los Angeles, West Hills, or nearby areas—we’re here to help every step of the way.
One of the most common questions we get is:
“What kind of patio cover should I choose?”
The right patio cover depends on your style, how you plan to use the space, and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with. In this guide, we break down the most popular options—Wood, Alumawood, Custom Stucco, and Aluminum—along with lattice vs. solid styles to help you decide.
Wood offers a timeless, natural look that many homeowners love. It’s highly customizable, making it a popular choice for those wanting a custom patio design in Los Angeles that blends beautifully with their home’s architecture. You can paint or stain it to match any style, and it works well for everything from covered patio installations to traditional pergola.
The only downside of Wood Patio Covers? It requires regular sealing and painting to protect against moisture, termites, and sun damage—especially in areas like West Hills, where the weather can be unpredictable. But for those who want a rich, organic aesthetic, it’s worth the extra effort.
Alumawood is the best of both worlds—it gives you the look of wood but is actually aluminum, so it resists warping, cracking, rotting, and pests. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want the appearance of real wood without the ongoing upkeep. This material is often used in affordable patio cover installations in Los Angeles, CA and is a top choice for outdoor shade solutions.
The only downside of Alumawood Patio Covers? It doesn’t offer the same depth and richness as real wood, and your finish options are a bit more limited. Still, it’s a great choice if you want something stylish and low-maintenance.
Custom Stucco Patio Covers
For homeowners looking for something more refined and architectural, Custom Stucco Patio Covers are an excellent option. These covers are designed to match the exterior finish of your home, giving your backyard a seamless, high-end look. They’re strong, durable, and ideal for modern and Mediterranean-style homes in Los Angeles, CA or in surrounding areas like West Hills.
Stucco Patio covers typically feature a solid roof structure, offering full protection from sun and rain while blending effortlessly with your home’s structure. These are perfect for creating luxurious outdoor living rooms or full patio enclosures.
The only downside of Custom Stucco Patio Covers? They can be more expensive, take longer to install, and may develop surface cracks over time due to their heavier structure and rigid design.
If you’re looking for maximum durability with minimal maintenance, aluminum patio covers are the way to go. They’re sleek, modern, and practically weatherproof—ideal for modern patio cover designs in Los Angeles and homes that lean toward a contemporary look. Aluminum is also a great option for residential patio construction in West Hills, where temperature fluctuations can impact other materials.
The only downside of Aluminum Patio Covers? It can feel a little cold or industrial, depending on the design. Also, rain can sound louder on an aluminum surface, and it may dent if hit hard enough. But overall, it’s a solid choice for long-term durability.
Lattice vs. Solid Patio Covers
Whether you choose Wood or Alumawood, you’ll also need to decide between a lattice or solid style:
Lattice Patio Cover has a partially open roof made of crisscrossed slats, which allows some sunlight and airflow to filter through. They’re ideal if you want light shade without completely blocking the sun.
Lattice Patio Cover – Pros:
- Allows natural light while still offering partial shade
- Better airflow and ventilation
- Stylish and decorative for gardens or open outdoor spaces
- Typically more affordable than solid options
Lattice Patio Cover – Cons:
- Doesn’t provide full protection from rain or intense sun
- Not ideal for furniture that needs full shade or cover
Solid Patio Cover, on the other hand, has a fully covered roof that offers complete protection from sun, rain, and debris. They’re perfect for creating a fully shaded or weatherproof outdoor space.
Solid Patio Cover – Pros:
- Full protection from rain, sun, and falling debris
- Great for outdoor kitchens, dining, or lounge areas
- Allows for lighting or ceiling fan installation
- Feels more like an outdoor room
Solid Patio Cover – Cons:
- Blocks all natural light
- May require stronger structural support and permitting
- Can feel more enclosed depending on the design
How to Choose the Right Patio Cover
When it comes to making the best decision, start with what feels right for your home. Think about your style—do you like a rustic vibe or something more contemporary? Do you want to keep things easy with low maintenance, or are you okay with putting in a little effort to keep real wood looking great?
Also, consider how you’ll use your outdoor space. Is it for weekend BBQs? A peaceful reading spot? Maybe an outdoor dining area? Your lifestyle should play a big role in your decision. And of course, don’t forget to factor in your budget—not just for installation, but for maintenance down the road.
If you’re interested in learning more about patio cover types, here are two helpful resources for more information:
Serving Los Angeles & West Hills with Expert Patio Installations
We’re your trusted construction company in Los Angeles, CA, building beautiful, functional outdoor spaces from concept to completion. Our team helps homeowners across Los Angeles or in surrounding areas like West Hills bring their dream patios to life.
We specialize in:
- Custom Patio Covers
- Backyard Remodeling
- Full Outdoor Living Renovations
- Wood, Alumawood, Custom Stucco, and Aluminum Patio Installations
Let’s Build Your Dream Patio
Whether you’re after a rustic wood pergola or a sleek modern aluminum cover, we’ll help you design a patio that fits your home and lifestyle perfectly.
Contact Level Up Contractor today for a free consultation and let’s bring your backyard vision to life.
