Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why is it important to call early?

A. Most people aren't thinking about the backyard activities when it's cold and rainy. Then, when the weather gets sunny and hot and you need shade a quality patio cover installer is already backlogged with patio covers to install. With everything considered, including design options, final decisions, applying for permits, and even waiting for association committee approval, not to mention the actual installation time the entire process may take longer than you think. So why not start now?

Q. What credentials should a skilled patio designer have?

A. It takes years of experience to be considered a custom patio cover designer. When choosing a patio designer /installer you need to find someone who is a true specialist with an extensive portfolio, a current referral list, and credentials regarding experience in patio construction. A proven track record is a must. Also make sure their contractors license is current and in good standing with the California State Contractors Board. There are many design factors involved in achieving an award winning design. The biggest mistakes are made by inexperienced and a unqualified designers. Make your designer/ builder has plenty of local references, and don't be afraid to check them out.

Q. Why is it important to have a specialist ?

A. With as many architectural designs of houses, not to mention personal preferences, design possibilities are endless. Without the assistance of a professional designer a patio structures installed on a house with a conflicting architectural scheme can prove to be disastrous. It's very important to choose a design that beautifully accents the architecture of your home. You never want it to look like an afterthought.

Q. What about the quality of material?

A. A quality patio builder works only with the finest, hand-selected materials, quality finishing products, and will stand behind his work. All patio covers should have a prime coat on all raw materials, then a finish coat applied before any building takes place. The wood should always be rolled and not sprayed. Besides the fact that spraying makes a mess, most primer and paint must thinned down in order to sprayed, thus creating a weaker paint or thinner mixture. Rolling your paint ensures you have a nice thick coat of primer and paint on all wood surfaces. Then after the structure is built it should always be completely caulked with a 35-year acrylic caulking followed by one more completed coat of paint to achieve longevity of all wood surfaces.