Why a Covered Patio Is LA's Best Upgrade
A covered patio is the single most impactful upgrade you can make to an LA backyard. It transforms unused concrete into a living room, a dining room, a home office — whatever you need it to be.
1. Modern Aluminum Patio Cover
The clean-lined, flat-roof aluminum patio cover is LA's most popular option. Sleek, maintenance-free, and can span up to 20 feet without posts in the middle. Cost: $12,000-$22,000 for a 12x16 cover, installed.
2. Motorized Louvered Pergola
For the ultimate flexibility, a motorized louvered system lets you adjust sun exposure throughout the day. Cost: $22,000-$40,000 for a 14x16 system.
3. Pergola + Fire Pit Combination
One of our most requested combos. A 14x16 pergola covering a sunken or raised fire pit with built-in seating creates a year-round gathering space. Cost: $35,000-$55,000 for the complete setup.
4. Cantilever Pergola Over Outdoor Kitchen
Cantilever designs eliminate front posts, creating an unobstructed view from your outdoor kitchen to the pool or landscape. Cost: $30,000-$50,000.
5. Covered Patio with Retractable Screens
Adding motorized screens to any covered patio creates a bug-free, wind-protected room. Essential near the foothills. Screens add $3,000-$8,000 per opening.
6. Floating Deck with Pergola
For sloped yards, a floating composite deck with integrated pergola creates usable outdoor space where none existed. Cost: $40,000-$70,000 including grading and engineering.
7. Pergola + Bar Seating
A pergola with a built-in bar counter is perfect for entertaining. We typically build L-shaped or U-shaped counters with pergola coverage. Cost: $25,000-$45,000.
Design Tips from the Field
- Match your home's architecture — a modern pergola on a traditional home looks disconnected
- Consider sun path — west-facing patios need more coverage than north-facing
- Plan for lighting — running electrical during construction saves thousands vs. retrofitting
- Think about drainage — solid covers need integrated gutters
- Size matters — go 20% larger than you think you need
Frequently Asked Questions
Do covered patios need permits in Los Angeles?
Yes. LADBS requires permits for any attached patio cover and freestanding structures over 120 sqft. Plan check currently takes 4-8 weeks. We handle all permitting.
What's the best covered patio material for LA weather?
Aluminum. It doesn't rust, warp, rot, or attract termites. Powder coating lasts 20+ years without fading.
How much does a covered patio increase home value in LA?
Quality covered patios typically return 50-70% at resale and help homes sell faster. In neighborhoods like Sherman Oaks, Studio City, and Encino, covered outdoor living space is expected by buyers.
