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Palram Patio Covers: Your essential buying guide
Measure the width you want to cover, the projection from the wall and the available fixing height. Allow enough depth to protect furniture from angled rain, while checking that doors, windows, lights and guttering will not be obstructed.
Polycarbonate is popular because it is lightweight, lets in natural light and is commonly used for outdoor canopies and veranda-style covers. Compare sheet thickness, UV protection, tint and support spacing, as these details affect shade, durability and appearance.
Many patio covers are wall-mounted lean-to designs, but some are freestanding or use posts for additional support. Check the fixing requirements carefully and make sure the wall, ground surface and post positions are suitable for the structure.
Aluminium frames are often chosen for low maintenance and a modern look, while timber can suit more traditional gardens but may need more upkeep. Compare finish, corrosion resistance, post size and compatibility with the roof panels.
Some patio covers are supplied as DIY-friendly kits, but installation depends on the size, fixing surface and structural requirements. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions, use appropriate fixings and consider professional help for large or complex installations.
A patio cover should provide practical shelter without making your outdoor space feel cramped or dark. Before comparing options, think about how you use the patio, where the weather hits from and how the cover will connect with the roofline, walls and drainage around your home.
Lean-to patio covers are a common choice for areas directly outside the house, as they attach to an external wall and project over the patio. They work well for covering doors, dining sets and walkways.
Freestanding patio covers can be useful where the seating area is away from the house or where wall fixing is not suitable. Check the base requirements, post layout and whether the structure will feel balanced in your garden.
Clear or lightly tinted panels help keep the patio bright, while darker tints can reduce glare and create a cooler shaded area. Solid or opaque covers may feel more sheltered but can also reduce daylight into nearby rooms.
For polycarbonate or plastic roofing, compare panel thickness, UV resistance, weather sealing and how the sheets are supported. These details matter for comfort, longevity and noise in heavy rain.
Measure the total width, projection and available installation height in more than one place, especially if the patio or wall is uneven. Make sure there is enough headroom at the front edge and enough fall for rainwater to run away properly.
Look for obstructions such as soil pipes, outdoor lights, air bricks, taps, window openings and existing gutters. A small difference in fixing height or post position can affect whether a patio cover fits neatly.
A patio cover needs a sensible route for rainwater, whether through an integrated gutter, front edge channel or controlled run-off. Consider where the water will land and whether it could splash back onto walls, paving or furniture.
If your patio is exposed to wind, compare sturdier frame designs, secure fixings and roof panels intended for outdoor shelter use. Larger covers may need more robust support than a small door canopy.
Frame colour, post shape and roof tint all affect how visible the patio cover will be from the garden and inside the house. A slim aluminium frame can look contemporary, while a timber-effect or painted finish may suit more traditional spaces.
Also consider maintenance. Smooth powder-coated frames are generally easier to wipe down, while timber-style structures may need periodic treatment depending on the material and finish.
