Here in the Pacific Northwest, bright blue skies are the exception, not the rule. Most days are overcast, cool, and somewhere between misty and fully raining sideways. That reality is exactly why patio covers are less of a luxury here and more of a necessity.
Most homeowners assume patio covers are only about rain protection. And yes, that is a big part of it. But what often gets overlooked is how a patio cover performs the rest of the year. The real benefit is not just staying dry, it’s creating an outdoor space that feels comfortable and usable in a wide range of conditions. If you would prefer a better visual, below is a great video going over this topic!
SETTING EXPECTATIONS
When we talk about patio covers, especially acrylic systems, it is easy to focus on extreme examples, hot summer days or heavy rain. But the design of these systems is not about one specific weather event. It is about long-term comfort, balanced light, and making your outdoor space more functional year round.
That is why understanding how acrylic patio covers work matters just as much as how they look.
WHAT MAKES ACRYLITE DIFFERENT
Acrylic panels are engineered to do two things that typically do not go together, allow natural light to pass through while blocking a significant portion of heat and harmful UV rays.
This is not accidental. The internal structure of acrylic panels diffuses incoming light and reduces heat transmission. When the sun is out, the area underneath stays noticeably cooler than direct sunlight, without feeling dark or enclosed. Homeowners consistently notice this difference once the warmer months arrive.
WHY THIS MATTERS IN THE PNW
One of the most common concerns we hear from homeowners is wanting outdoor coverage without making the inside of their home feel darker. Traditional solid patio covers solve the rain issue, but they also block daylight from kitchens, living rooms, and back-facing windows.
In a region where natural light is already limited for much of the year, that tradeoff can make a home feel gloomy. Acrylic patio covers solve this problem by allowing light to pass through while still providing protection from rain and excess heat.
INTRODUCING THE AMERICAN PATIO COVER
One of our most popular systems is the American Patio Cover. It combines an aluminum frame with an acrylic roof system.
The aluminum frame keeps maintenance low and provides long term durability. The acrylic panels manage light, rain, and heat control. This combination works exceptionally well in our climate, which is why we install this system so often for Pacific Northwest homeowners.
PROS
First, balance. You get reliable rain protection without sacrificing natural daylight.
Second, low maintenance. Aluminum does not require staining or sealing like wood, which becomes more important the longer you own it.
Third, durability. Acrylic panels are built to handle heavy rain, wind, and snow loads. We have seen other materials discolor or fade over time, acrylic holds up better in our climate.
Fourth, efficiency. Compared to a full wood cover, installation time is typically shorter, which helps keep overall costs more reasonable.
Finally, speed. Most installations are completed in one to two days, depending on size and layout.
CONS AND HONEST TRADEOFFS
This is not a full blackout shade system. If your goal is deep, all day shade, a solid patio cover will be a better fit. Because the panels are translucent, dirt, pollen, and leaves are also more visible than they would be on a solid roof.
These are not deal breakers for most homeowners, but they are important considerations when deciding what system fits your needs best.
MAINTENANCE EXPLAINED
Maintenance is straightforward. Cleaning every couple of months is usually enough. A hose rinse, a soft bristle brush with soapy water, and the occasional light pressure wash for stubborn buildup will keep the panels clear.
Using a long handled brush allows you to clean safely from the ground without climbing ladders. Regular cleaning not only keeps the panels looking good but also extends their lifespan.
INSTALL OPTIONS
There are three common installation methods. Wall mounted covers attach to the home using a ledger. Roof mounted covers are used when wall height is limited or when the cover needs to sit higher. Freestanding covers are not attached to the home at all and use posts set into the ground.
During your estimate, we look at your home’s layout, structure, and height to determine which option makes the most sense.
COST AND LONG TERM VALUE
For a typical 14×14 acrylic patio cover, pricing usually falls between $7,000 and $10,000, depending on customization and installation details.
What you are paying for is longevity, natural light, and long term comfort not just something to stand under when it rains. For homeowners who want a quick starting point, we also offer an online estimating tool that can get you roughly 90 percent of the way there.
WARRANTY AND TRUST
Acrylic systems come with a 30 year non yellowing warranty, a 10 year hail warranty, and our lifetime workmanship warranty. That matters in a climate where materials are constantly exposed to moisture and temperature changes.
We also design every patio cover with you. Our team creates 3D renderings so you can see exactly how the cover will look on your home before anything is built. That way, there are no surprises and everything feels right for your space.
Conclusion
If you are curious whether an American Patio Cover is the right fit for your home, the best next step is seeing one in person. Visit our showroom, stand underneath the system, and see how much light still comes through.
Once you experience it firsthand, the decision usually becomes much easier.