The Pros and Cons of Alumawood Patio Covers

For years, the choice for a beautiful patio cover was simple: real wood. But while wood has a natural charm, it also demands a ton of maintenance that most of us just don’t have time for. That’s where options like Alumawood come in, promising the same great look without all the work. This guide directly compares the two, breaking down the real-world alumawood patio covers pros and cons. We’ll cover everything from the alumawood patio cover materials to the average cost, helping you make a choice based on facts, not just tradition.

• Alumawood: Made from aluminum with a wood-like texture, it’s durable, weather-resistant, and requires minimal maintenance. It lasts 25–30 years and costs $20–$45 per square foot upfront, with very low upkeep costs.
• Wood: Offers a natural, customizable look but requires frequent maintenance like staining and sealing. It costs $35–$65 per square foot and typically lasts 10–20 years, with significant long-term upkeep expenses.

Alumawood vs. Wood: A Quick Glance

Feature	Alumawood	Wood
Cost (per sq ft)	$20–$45	$35–$65
Lifespan	25–30 years	10–20 years
Maintenance	Minimal (cleaning)	High (staining, sealing)
Durability	Resistant to rot, pests	Prone to warping, rotting
Customization	Limited options	Highly flexible

If you want durability and low maintenance, Alumawood is a better choice. If you value a natural look and custom design, wood may be worth the extra effort. Keep reading for a detailed comparison.

What Are Alumawood Patio Covers?

The Materials and Features of Alumawood

Alumawood is crafted from sturdy aluminum and embossed with a wood-grain texture that closely resembles natural wood. Unlike traditional timber, it doesn’t soak up moisture, rot, or attract termites. It’s also coated with protective finishes to withstand sun, rain, and humidity. Thanks to its lightweight yet durable design, installation is simpler, and it offers impressive wind resistance. Plus, since it’s made from recyclable materials, it’s a more eco-conscious choice.

Alumawood patio covers come in a range of styles, including Newport, solid insulated, and lattice/shade bar designs. Homeowners can personalize their covers with options like nine color choices, built-in LED lighting, and different end cap styles. While it allows for some customization, it doesn’t offer the intricate detailing achievable with real wood. However, its durable build makes it a long-lasting and cost-efficient alternative.

Not All Aluminum Covers Are Created Equal

When you start looking into aluminum patio covers, you’ll quickly notice that not all options are the same. The term “Alumawood” is often used generically, but it’s actually a specific brand name, much like Kleenex is for tissues. This distinction is important because different brands offer varying levels of quality, finishes, and warranties. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right cover for your outdoor space. It’s about finding the perfect balance of style, durability, and long-term value that fits your home and lifestyle, ensuring you get a product that truly meets your needs.

Understanding Brands Like Alumawood and Elitewood

Alumawood, manufactured by Amerimax, is a popular choice because it masterfully mimics the look of real wood without any of the drawbacks. It’s constructed from strong, structural aluminum and finished with a special Aluma-Shield® coating that includes Teflon® to resist stains, scratches, and fading from the sun. This means you get the warm, textured appearance of wood but with a lifespan of 25 to 30 years and almost no maintenance. While other brands like Elitewood exist, Alumawood has set a high standard for quality and durability in the industry, making it a reliable investment for homeowners looking for a lasting solution.

Insulated Panels and Premium Finishes

One of the biggest advantages of Alumawood is its premium finish. The embossed wood-grain texture ensures your patio cover won’t warp, crack, or chip the way traditional wood does over time, especially in sunny Southern California. For solid roof designs, you can also opt for insulated panels. These panels help regulate the temperature underneath, keeping your patio noticeably cooler on hot days and creating a more comfortable environment for relaxing or entertaining. While Alumawood offers a fantastic product warranty, it’s good to know that the labor warranty is typically one year. When you work with a trusted installer, you can be confident that all of these high-quality outdoor living solutions are installed correctly for lasting enjoyment.

Average Cost and Lifespan of Alumawood

When it comes to value, Alumawood patio covers outshine traditional wood options. They are considerably more budget-friendly, and their lifespan – ranging from 25 to 30 years or more – far exceeds the typical 10-year lifespan of wood covers. Maintenance is minimal, saving homeowners both time and money. Unlike wood, which requires regular sanding, staining, and sealing, Alumawood usually just needs a quick wash to clear away dust. Another bonus? All color options are priced the same, letting homeowners pick their preferred look without worrying about extra costs.

Is an Alumawood Patio Cover Right for You?

Alumawood performs exceptionally well in climates like Orange County’s, where intense sun and humidity can wreak havoc on traditional wood. Its resistance to fading and structural wear under prolonged UV exposure makes it ideal for south-facing patios or spots with consistent direct sunlight. It’s also a smart choice for areas prone to termites.

For those seeking a low-maintenance, durable solution, Alumawood is highly recommended. Companies like Pacific Pavers, a top outdoor living contractor in Orange County, offer custom Alumawood covers that integrate beautifully with outdoor kitchens, patios, and pool areas. This versatility makes Alumawood a great fit for a variety of outdoor spaces while ensuring a cohesive and long-lasting design.

The Case for Traditional Wood Patio Covers

The Natural Beauty of Different Wood Types

Wood patio covers offer a natural charm and design versatility that’s hard to beat. Unlike manufactured materials like Alumawood, wood brings a warm, organic aesthetic to outdoor spaces. In the U.S., redwood and cedar are among the most popular choices. Redwood is known for its deep reddish color and tight grain, while cedar offers a golden hue with a more pronounced grain pattern. These natural textures and tones create a look that synthetic materials just can’t replicate.

Another big plus? Wood is highly adaptable. It can be cut, shaped, or assembled into almost any style, from simple pergolas to intricate, decorative designs. Homeowners also have endless options for finishes – stains, paints, and protective coatings can be tailored to their preferences. Plus, wood’s ability to be refinished or repainted over time means the design can evolve to match changing tastes or trends.

The Unique Advantages of Wood

Authentic Look and Customization

There’s a certain warmth and authenticity to real wood that manufactured materials can’t quite capture. Popular choices like redwood and cedar bring their own unique character to an outdoor space; redwood offers a deep, reddish hue with a tight grain, while cedar provides a lighter, golden tone with a more pronounced pattern. The true beauty of wood, however, lies in its incredible adaptability. It can be cut, shaped, and assembled into nearly any design you can imagine, from a simple, clean-lined pergola to an intricate, decorative structure. You also have a world of options for finishes, including stains that highlight the natural grain or paints that perfectly match your home’s exterior. You can see some stunning examples of these custom designs in our gallery.

Ease of Repair

Life happens, and when it does, repairing a wood patio cover is often refreshingly straightforward. If a single beam or post sustains damage from weather or an accident, you can typically replace just that one piece. This process is often much simpler and more localized than trying to fix a large, dented aluminum panel. Beyond repairs, wood structures can be designed to blend seamlessly with your home’s existing architecture. By incorporating details like matching roof tiles, your new patio cover can feel less like an addition and more like a natural extension of your indoor living space, creating a truly cohesive and integrated design.

Wood Patio Cover Maintenance and Durability

Keeping wood patio covers in good shape requires regular attention. This includes annual or biannual staining or painting, sealing to guard against moisture, and checking for problems like rot, warping, or pest damage. Over time, repairs may also be needed, adding to the overall maintenance effort.

Weather conditions can take a toll on wood. Sunlight and moisture, in particular, can speed up issues like warping, cracking, and rotting, making consistent upkeep essential. Without proper care, wood patio covers can lose their structural integrity and visual appeal.

How Much Do Wood Patio Covers Cost?

The initial cost of wood patio covers typically ranges from $20 to $40 per square foot, depending on the type of wood and the complexity of the design. However, the expenses don’t stop there. Over a 10- to 15-year period, the cost of stains, sealants, paints, and labor for refinishing can add up to several thousand dollars.

For perspective, switching from wood to aluminum covers can save homeowners an estimated $500 to $1,200 annually on maintenance costs. In terms of lifespan, wood patio covers often fall short in harsher climates. Exposure to intense sun or frequent moisture can mean earlier replacement compared to alternatives like Alumawood, which can last 25–30 years.

Ultimately, choosing wood means balancing its natural beauty and design flexibility with the higher costs and maintenance demands. These trade-offs are crucial when weighing wood against options like Alumawood in terms of cost, durability, and upkeep.

Alumawood vs. Wood: The Main Differences

A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons

Let’s break down the key differences between Alumawood and wood patio covers when it comes to cost, maintenance, and durability. These factors can help you decide which option fits your needs and budget better.

Comparing Upfront and Long-Term Costs

When it comes to upfront costs, Alumawood is the more affordable choice. It typically costs $20–$45 per square foot, while wood patio covers range from $35–$65 per square foot. For example, installing a 300-square-foot Alumawood cover might cost around $9,000, whereas a similar-sized wood cover could cost $15,000. But that’s just the beginning – maintenance expenses over time can significantly impact the total cost.

Over a 15-year period, Alumawood maintenance costs are minimal, averaging about $200 for occasional cleaning. In contrast, wood covers require regular upkeep like sealing, painting, and pest treatments, which can add up to approximately $3,000 over the same timeframe.

Here’s a quick look at the numbers:

Material	Initial Cost (per sq ft)	Maintenance (10 yrs)	Maintenance (20 yrs)	Total (10 yrs)	Total (20 yrs)
Alumawood	$20–$45	$100–$200	$200–$300	$20–$45 + $100–$200	$20–$45 + $200–$300
Wood	$35–$65	$1,000–$2,500	$2,000–$5,000	$35–$65 + $1,000–$2,500	$35–$65 + $2,000–$5,000

Clearly, Alumawood offers a more economical option both upfront and in the long run.

Which One Is Easier to Maintain?

The level of maintenance required is another key difference. Alumawood is incredibly low-maintenance. All it needs is an occasional wash with water and mild soap. There’s no need for painting, sealing, or pest control, which keeps upkeep costs low – just $100–$300 over 20 years.

Wood, however, is a different story. To keep it in good shape, you’ll need to stain or paint it regularly (usually every year or two), seal it to protect against moisture, and stay on the lookout for issues like rot, warping, or pests. Over two decades, these maintenance tasks can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. That’s a significant difference compared to Alumawood.

Specific Care for Aluminum Covers

Caring for an Alumawood patio cover is refreshingly simple. Unlike wood, which demands constant attention, Alumawood’s durable, factory-applied finish does most of the work for you. All it really needs is a gentle wash with mild soap and water every so often to remove any dust or debris that builds up. You can forget about the yearly cycle of sanding, staining, or sealing. Plus, its aluminum construction means it’s naturally resistant to rot, termites, and warping, which is a huge relief in a climate with both sun and humidity. This resilience lets you spend more time enjoying your patio and less time working on it.

Which Patio Cover Will Last Longer?

The durability of each material also plays a major role in deciding which one to choose. Alumawood is built to last 20–30 years with minimal care. It’s resistant to weather extremes and pest damage, making it a reliable option even in challenging climates.

Wood, on the other hand, has a shorter lifespan – usually 10–20 years. Sunlight, moisture, and other harsh conditions can cause it to warp, crack, or rot, especially if maintenance is neglected. This means that wood patio covers not only require more effort but may also need to be replaced sooner, adding to the overall cost.

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Climate Impact and Energy Savings

An Alumawood patio cover does more than just provide shade; it can also help reduce your energy bills. In a sunny climate like Orange County, a well-placed patio cover can block direct sunlight from hitting your windows and walls, which helps keep your home cooler. In fact, using an aluminum patio cover can lower your home’s cooling costs by up to 20%. This is because the material reflects heat instead of absorbing it. Alumawood is particularly effective in our local climate, standing up to intense sun and humidity without fading or wearing down. This makes it a fantastic choice for south-facing patios or areas that get consistent, direct sunlight throughout the day.

Potential Downsides of Aluminum

While Alumawood has many benefits, it’s important to consider a few potential drawbacks. Because the material is lightweight, it can be more prone to denting than solid wood. This might be a concern if you have large trees with heavy branches overhead or if your backyard is a frequent playground for kids with stray balls. Aesthetically, while Alumawood does a great job mimicking the look of wood, it doesn’t have the same natural feel or texture since it’s factory-made. Finally, it’s worth checking the warranty details. Some brands may offer longer labor warranties than others, so it’s a good idea to discuss these specifics with your installer to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your investment.

Style and Design: Alumawood vs. Wood

When it comes to visual appeal and design flexibility, wood and Alumawood each bring something different to the table. Wood offers natural variation, while Alumawood provides a uniform faux-wood finish.

Real Wood Charm vs. a Wood-Look Finish

A real wood patio cover delivers an organic, natural look that’s hard to replicate. Its grain, knots, and color variations create a one-of-a-kind appearance. Over time, wood develops a patina that many homeowners find charming and timeless.

Alumawood, on the other hand, is crafted from aluminum but features a wood-grain texture designed to mimic real wood. From a distance, it can look surprisingly realistic, but up close, its uniformity sets it apart from the natural irregularities of wood.

Wood requires regular maintenance to prevent weathering. Without proper staining or sealing, it can fade or gray over time. Alumawood, with its durable powder-coated finish, resists fading, chalking, and staining for years – even in sun-drenched areas like Southern California. This durability makes it a practical choice for homeowners looking for low-maintenance options.

This difference in appearance and upkeep naturally leads to considerations about customization.

How to Personalize Your Patio Cover

If you’re after intricate or highly personalized designs, wood is the more flexible option. With wood, you can create custom shapes, such as curved arches, vaulted ceilings, or hand-carved posts. It also allows for ornate lattice patterns that can align with specific architectural styles, making it perfect for projects that demand unique details.

Alumawood offers customization too, but within a modular framework. Homeowners can select from various styles, such as Newport, solid insulated, or lattice designs, and choose from multiple factory-applied finishes to complement their home’s exterior. Some manufacturers also provide additional features like custom end caps and integrated LED lighting, though the options are more standardized compared to wood.

Customization Feature	Wood	Alumawood
Design Flexibility	High – nearly unlimited possibilities	Moderate – modular system limitations
Color Options	Any stain or paint; refinishing possible	Factory finishes; not refinishable
Architectural Details	Hand-carved posts, intricate patterns	Standard end caps, integrated lighting
Unique Shapes	Curved arches, custom angles	Limited to manufacturer’s system

For those envisioning something truly distinctive – like a pergola with Mediterranean-inspired carvings or a custom lattice design – wood is the go-to material.

Pacific Pavers frequently highlights this contrast in their Orange County projects. For example, coastal homes often feature custom wood pergolas with intricate detailing that reflects Mediterranean influences. Meanwhile, modern suburban homes tend to favor Alumawood covers in sleek, neutral tones that pair well with contemporary aesthetics.

Why Professional Installation Is Key

Choosing between Alumawood and wood for your patio cover is just the beginning – professional installation plays a key role in ensuring your investment stands the test of time. Both materials have specific installation requirements that demand expertise to guarantee structural stability, effective weatherproofing, and compliance with local building codes.

Take wood patio covers, for instance. They require advanced carpentry skills, including precise framing, sealing, and finishing, to prevent issues like water damage and pest infestation. Alumawood, while easier to install than wood, still needs careful alignment and secure fastening to withstand wind and weather exposure. Skilled installers address these challenges head-on, ensuring each material is installed correctly and performs as expected.

Some common pitfalls during installation include poor drainage, weak fastenings, incorrect slope angles, and overlooking thermal expansion. With wood, additional issues like insufficient sealing, improper flashing, and lack of pest barriers can shorten its lifespan. Professional contractors mitigate these risks by conducting thorough site evaluations, ensuring proper grading and drainage, and using fastening systems rated for local conditions. They also ensure compliance with current building codes and any HOA regulations, which is especially crucial in areas like Orange County.

Local expertise adds another layer of value, particularly in Southern California, where the climate presents unique challenges. Contractors familiar with the area understand how to optimize drainage, provide adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, and account for temperature-driven expansion and contraction. These region-specific practices make a significant difference in the durability and functionality of your patio cover.

The benefits of professional installation extend beyond just getting the job done right. For example, a properly installed Alumawood cover can last 25–30 years, whereas a poorly installed one might fail within 10–15 years. Additionally, switching from wood to professionally installed aluminum covers can save homeowners an average of $500–$1,200 annually on maintenance costs. These long-term savings highlight the value of investing in quality workmanship from the start.

Pacific Pavers stands out as a trusted name in Orange County’s patio cover market. Known for their expertise in Alumawood and Struxure patio covers, they also offer comprehensive outdoor living solutions:

“Our commitment begins with using premium materials and employing skilled installers. We follow industry best practices and adhere to rigorous standards to ensure each project is completed with precision. Additionally, our team conducts thorough inspections during and after installation to guarantee lasting quality and satisfaction.”

• Pacific Pavers

Pacific Pavers also understands the specific building requirements of Orange County. Their approach integrates patio covers seamlessly with other outdoor features, such as paver patios, outdoor kitchens, and fire elements, creating cohesive and functional spaces.

When choosing a contractor, it’s critical to verify their credentials. Ensure they hold certification from the California Contractors State License Board, carry liability insurance, and provide workers’ compensation coverage. Look for detailed written estimates, warranty information, and references from recent projects in your area. Ask about their experience with both Alumawood and wood covers, their familiarity with local codes and HOA rules, and their process for securing permits.

Installation timelines vary depending on the material. Alumawood installations generally take 2–5 days, while wood installations, due to on-site carpentry and additional permitting, can take 5–10 days or more.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When deciding between Alumawood and wood patio covers, the best option depends on your priorities and how much effort you’re willing to put into maintenance. Both materials have their own perks, but for many Orange County homeowners, Alumawood stands out as the more practical and lasting choice.

Alumawood offers a clear edge in long-term cost savings, thanks to its low-maintenance nature. Unlike wood, which requires regular sanding, staining, and sealing to prevent issues like warping, cracking, and pest damage, Alumawood resists rot, rust, and termites without the need for painting or sealing. For busy households, this hands-off approach is a major advantage.

In terms of durability, Alumawood also comes out on top. Southern California’s intense sun and high temperatures can take a toll on traditional wood covers, which often need replacing after 10 to 15 years. Alumawood, on the other hand, can last 25 to 30 years, making it a smart investment for the region’s climate.

For Orange County residents, Alumawood strikes a great balance between style and practicality. Its realistic wood-grain finish delivers the natural look many homeowners love, without the ongoing upkeep that wood demands. This makes it particularly well-suited for the area’s sunny, hot conditions.

If a natural aesthetic and the ability to customize are your top priorities, wood might still be the way to go – just be prepared for the extra maintenance. But if you’re looking for a wood-like appearance combined with durability and ease of care, Alumawood is the smarter, low-effort option that can provide decades of satisfaction. Hopefully, this breakdown helps you make an informed choice for your outdoor space.

FAQs

Is Alumawood More Eco-Friendly Than Wood?

Alumawood patio covers come with some eco-friendly advantages when compared to traditional wood options. For starters, they’re crafted from aluminum, a material that’s often recyclable. This means less waste and a step toward conserving resources. Additionally, Alumawood doesn’t need chemical treatments or paints to fend off pests, rot, or weather damage. This helps cut down on the use of harmful chemicals that could otherwise seep into the environment. Lastly, their long-lasting nature means fewer replacements are needed over time, which helps save resources in the long run.

How Does Installation Differ for Alumawood vs. Wood?

The process of installing Alumawood patio covers tends to be faster and less demanding compared to traditional wood covers. Since Alumawood components come pre-fabricated, they’re simpler to put together. On the other hand, wood covers often require more customization and skilled carpentry, which can lead to higher labor costs and longer installation times.

If you’re hiring a contractor, it’s important to confirm they have experience with the material you’ve chosen. For Alumawood, look for someone familiar with working on pre-fabricated systems. For wood, make sure the contractor has solid carpentry expertise. Don’t forget to check their licenses, insurance, and references to ensure you’re working with someone reliable and qualified for the job.

What’s the True Long-Term Cost of Each?

When comparing Alumawood to traditional wood patio covers, the long-term costs can differ quite a bit due to their maintenance needs and durability. Wood patio covers might seem more affordable upfront, but they come with a catch – regular upkeep. You’ll need to paint, stain, and seal them periodically to fend off problems like rotting, warping, or termite damage. Over time, these maintenance tasks can become a significant expense.

Alumawood offers a different story. It’s crafted from aluminum but designed to replicate the look of wood, giving you the aesthetic appeal without the hassle. It’s practically maintenance-free, resists weathering, and doesn’t need treatments to ward off pests or decay. For homeowners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance option, Alumawood can be the more budget-friendly choice in the long term. It’s built to endure for decades without the recurring upkeep that wood demands.

Contractor Licensing and Warranty Considerations

When you’re ready to invest in a patio cover, choosing a qualified contractor is a critical step. Before signing any contracts, make sure your chosen professional is certified by the California Contractors State License Board and carries both liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This protects you and ensures the job meets local building codes. It’s also smart to ask about the warranty. While many Alumawood covers include a one-year labor warranty, some premium brands offer longer terms. Getting clarity on these details upfront provides peace of mind and safeguards your investment for the long haul.

Professional installation is key to getting the most out of your patio cover. A properly installed Alumawood structure can last 25 to 30 years, while a poor installation might only last 10 to 15. Investing in quality workmanship from a team like Pacific Pavers can lead to substantial long-term savings, potentially reducing annual maintenance costs by $500 to $1,200 compared to a traditional wood cover. A skilled installer ensures everything is built to last, so you can enjoy your beautiful outdoor space without worry.

Related Blog Posts

• Top 6 Patio Cover Materials for Hot Climates
• Struxure Pergola ROI: Is It Worth the Cost?
• Retractable Awnings vs. Fixed Covers: Pros and Cons
• HOA Approval Process for Alumawood Covers

Key Takeaways

• Consider the long-term cost: Alumawood is the more budget-friendly option, saving you money on the initial installation and eliminating the recurring costs of staining, sealing, and repairing a traditional wood cover.
• Choose the right material for your lifestyle: If you prefer a hands-off approach, Alumawood is the clear winner, requiring only occasional washing. Wood demands consistent upkeep to protect it from weather, rot, and pests.
• Balance style with practicality: Wood offers complete design freedom for custom, intricate projects. Alumawood provides a classic, realistic wood look that fits most homes beautifully without the demanding maintenance schedule.