The reason that we bring up this topic on our site is because of its use for a patio roof. It makes for a really nice option in terms of aesthetics and it can also be quite simple to install for these applications. If you choose to go with a more expensive metal tile or material like copper, then you’ll probably want to invest in having a professional roofer do the installation. The industrious DIYer could handle a corrugated metal panel install just laid over some rafters or on top of some sheeting.

This is an example from Steelmaster of a large metal roof that is over a nice patio space.

These types of installations are often more for show than anything that we would consider for protection from the elements in a waterproof sort of way.

photo credit

Patio Roof Plans

So, what are your plans for your patio’s roof? You should know that the lattice roof found on many pergola designs is quite a popular choice. It is made using a wooden post and beam structure supporting rafters. These are what can then support a lattice structure up top or can be the finished ‘roof’ themselves.

Another option with the pergola is to place this sheet or metal roofing materials directly over these rafters as was just mentioned. Not only does this provide you with more solid shade, but it will also give you a nice sound effect when rain is hitting it.

Next step is to add a metal roof and get an even more efficient and 'clean' rain water collection system for use in the garden.

An additional point that makes a metal patio roof an attractive option is how it can be used with a rain water collection system or cistern. Since metal is naturally mildew and algae growth resistant and not produced with petroleum by-products, it allows for clean water runoff. This rainwater can be collected in your cisterns and used to water your plants in your garden.  This works especially well if your home has continuous or seamless gutters installed.

photo credit

You know – if you are a frequent visitor of our site – that we are big fans of building with green and environmentally-friendly materials and products wherever possible.   You’ll also appreciate that we find products that are as attractive aesthetically as they are environmentally where such products exist.  This is why we like the idea of a roof plans that call for using metal.

Environmental Benefits of a Metal Roof

This is a nice example of how copper will develop a nice patina over time.

It is lightweight, which makes it amenable to being installed over existing roof materials. This minimizes both labor in tearing off an old roof and also reduces waste that will accumulate in a landfill – especially since many older roofs contain those petroleum by-products.

photo credit

In addition to this, metal is recyclable. In fact, many metal roofs contain as much as 25% recycled (sometimes 95%!) materials. It is also able to allow water to run off and snow to be shed, removing the load on the roof.

We’ve mentioned the algae and mildew resistance. There is also a property known as ‘hydrostatic’ meaning that it protects a roof system from growing fungus created by moisture. This is more of a concern on your home than an open patio space, but it deserves mention, nonetheless.

Finally, metal is an energy efficient choice. It reflects up to 70% of the sun’s energy, minimizing heat retention. On the roof of your home, this could translate into 34% less heat gain when compared to a typical asphalt shingle roof. Speaking of the sun and patio roofs, we’ve also discussed the solar patio cover in another article. You may be interested in that option as well, potentially a combination of both.

For these reasons and more, a patio metal roof makes for a great choice for your unique patio. You’ll have a hard time finding patio covers that provide you with durability through hot and cold temperatures, wet and dry weather cycles and climate zones, high UV ray areas, windy conditions, hail, ice or snow as a metal roof does.

For the purposes of this article, we are really more concerned with addressing the benefit of the solar panel patio cover system itself, not so much about the installation.  Let’s talk a bit more about the benefits of using a solar patio roof.  Basically, if you are looking for shade on your patio, you are going to need some type of roof structure, awning or shade to provide that.  Many people opt to build a patio cover themselves, like a classic pergola design.  Then, there are other deck designs that call for a cover feature that extends from the house to the posts of the deck.

Both styles make the installation of solar panels a feasible solution.  The main advantage of using a solar panel array, like photovoltaic (PV) systems is that they are relatively affordable, lightweight, have a low profile and can provide you with energy that can either power the lighting or some other features on your patio or be sent back into the grid.  This allows you to use them to create a covered patio for you, all while saving you money on utility expenses.  True, it will take some time to realize these savings as a PV system will cost several thousand dollars, including installation expenses.

Again, the real benefits have to do with the long-term viability and design of your patio.  With a solar cover roof system like this, you will often find that the manufacturer provides a warranty of up to 20-25 years.  In addition to this, you may be able to get some state or federal monies as tax credits or reimbursement for your purchase.

And, if you are worried about space issues, don’t be.  A system like this can be installed on a patio roof as little as 250-500 square feet.  You may also have concerns about HOAs or other city regulations.  This is a legitimate concern, but one that you should find no problem in avoiding as these systems have been installed in most major metropolitan areas without issues.  You can expect a system of this size to produce anywhere between 250-400 kwh of energy for you as well.  So, while you won’t be powering your neighborhood with it, you can definitely feel good about doing your part to green up a little more than your backyard patio.