Before adding a patio cover

Start with how you want to live outside. A dining table, a place to sit or a backyard entertainment space will each ask something different of the design.

Start with the space

Measure the furniture you want to use and leave room to move around it. Think about how you will get from the house to the covered area when it is raining.

Think about light and water

A solid roof changes the light reaching nearby windows and gathers rain that needs somewhere to go. Talk through roof height, gutters and drainage early.

Talk through the details

Ask what permits and site information the project needs, and discuss the budget, materials and timing before work begins.