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Patio Cover & Outdoor Living Insights

Expert guides, cost breakdowns, and design inspiration from the Structure1 team.

Cedar patio cover with tongue-and-groove ceiling installed in the Dallas-Fort Worth area by Structure1 Construction
Featured
Materials

Best Patio Cover Materials for Texas Weather: Wood vs. Aluminum vs. Vinyl

Choosing the right material for your patio cover in Texas makes all the difference. Here's a head-to-head comparison of cedar, pressure-treated pine, aluminum, and vinyl — with honest pros, cons, and cost ranges for DFW homeowners.

January 20, 202614 min read
Pergola with protective back wall providing privacy and shade in a Midlothian Texas backyard
Design Ideas

15 Stunning Patio Cover Ideas for Dallas-Fort Worth Backyards

Looking for patio cover inspiration? Here are 15 popular design ideas we've built for DFW homeowners — from classic gable covers to modern pergolas with polycarbonate roofing, complete with features and approximate costs.

Jan 20, 202615 min read
Custom pergola with polycarbonate roof panels providing shade in a Dallas-Fort Worth backyard
Home Value

Does a Patio Cover Increase Home Value in Texas? (What the Data Says)

Wondering if a patio cover is a smart investment for your Texas home? Here's what real estate data and DFW market trends tell us about the ROI of outdoor living improvements.

Jan 20, 202611 min read
Well-maintained pergola with polycarbonate roofing in Fort Worth Texas
Maintenance

How to Maintain Your Patio Cover in Texas: A Seasonal Guide

Keep your patio cover looking great and lasting for decades with this seasonal maintenance guide tailored for the Texas climate — covering cleaning, staining, storm prep, and what to watch for.

Jan 20, 202616 min read
Custom gable patio cover with cedar posts installed in Dallas-Fort Worth by Structure1 Construction
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Patio Cover Cost in Dallas-Fort Worth? (2026 Pricing Guide)

Planning a patio cover in DFW? Here's what to expect for pricing in 2026 — from basic lean-to covers starting at $8,000 to custom gable designs exceeding $20,000, with a full breakdown of what affects your cost.

Jan 15, 202611 min read
Lean-to patio cover with dark wood ceiling and recessed lighting in Forney Texas by Structure1 Construction
Planning

Do You Need a Permit for a Patio Cover in Dallas-Fort Worth? (City-by-City Guide)

Yes, most DFW cities require a building permit for patio covers. Here's a city-by-city guide covering Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, McKinney, Plano, and more — plus how Structure1 handles permits for you.

Jan 15, 202615 min read
Pergola with polycarbonate roofing and ceiling fan installed in Plano Texas by Structure1 Construction
Patio Covers

Patio Cover vs. Pergola: Which Is Right for Your Texas Backyard?

Trying to decide between a patio cover and a pergola for your Texas backyard? Here's a detailed comparison of cost, shade coverage, durability, and which option works best for DFW's hot summers.

Jan 15, 202613 min read
Classic gable patio cover with white trusses and cedar posts built in McKinney Texas by Structure1 Construction
Design Ideas

The Complete Guide to Patio Cover Styles: Gable, Lean-To, Pergola & More

From classic gable designs to modern pergolas with polycarbonate roofing — here's everything you need to know about patio cover styles available for DFW homeowners, with real project photos.

Jan 15, 202614 min read

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