Pergolas, Patio Covers & Outdoor Structures

Extend Your Outdoor Living Season

Florida's beautiful weather comes with a challenge. The intense sun and sudden afternoon storms can make your deck or patio uncomfortable during prime outdoor hours. Shade structures solve this problem by creating protected spaces where you can relax, dine, and entertain regardless of the weather.

Adding a pergola or patio cover dramatically increases how much time you can spend outdoors. Instead of retreating inside when the sun gets too intense, you can relax in cool shade. When light rain starts, you do not have to rush to pack up your gathering. Shade structures turn your outdoor space into a true extension of your home that you can use almost every day of the year.

Beyond comfort, shade structures add significant value to your property. Outdoor living space is highly desirable in Florida, and a well-designed pergola or patio cover sets your home apart. These structures also protect your deck or patio surface from sun and rain, extending its life and reducing maintenance.

Types of Outdoor Structures We Build

Different structures serve different purposes and create different aesthetics. Here are the most popular options for Horizon West homes:

Pergolas

Pergolas feature open roofs with cross beams that provide partial shade. They create a beautiful architectural element while allowing air circulation and filtered sunlight. Pergolas are perfect when you want some sun protection without completely blocking the sky.

You can customize your pergola's shade level by adjusting beam spacing. Closer beams provide more shade, while wider spacing lets in more light. Many homeowners add climbing plants to pergolas for natural, living shade that grows more effective over time.

Pergolas work well over decks, patios, walkways, or as standalone garden features. They can be attached to your house or freestanding. We build pergolas from wood, composite, or vinyl materials to match your preferences and budget.

Solid Roof Patio Covers

Solid roof covers provide complete protection from sun and rain. These structures function like outdoor rooms, allowing you to use your patio or deck in any weather. Solid roofs keep the space cooler than open pergolas and protect outdoor furniture from the elements.

We build solid roof covers using various materials including metal roofing, shingles to match your home, or specialized patio roofing systems. These structures require proper engineering to handle Florida's wind loads and must be built to current building codes.

Louvered Roof Systems

Louvered roofs give you the best of both worlds. Adjustable louvers open to let in sun and breeze or close to provide shade and rain protection. Some systems are motorized, letting you adjust coverage with the push of a button.

Louvered systems cost more than fixed structures but offer unmatched flexibility. You can enjoy open sky on pleasant days and full protection during harsh sun or rain. These systems are ideal for homeowners who want maximum control over their outdoor environment.

Gazebos

Gazebos are freestanding structures with solid roofs and open sides. They create defined outdoor rooms perfect for seating areas, hot tubs, or garden focal points. Gazebos add architectural interest to your yard and provide versatile outdoor space.

We can build custom gazebos in various sizes and styles to complement your home's architecture. Options include built-in benches, screening to keep out bugs, and lighting for evening use.

Design Considerations

Creating the perfect outdoor structure requires careful planning. Here are important factors to consider:

Size and Scale

Your structure should be proportional to your deck or patio and your home. Too small looks awkward and provides inadequate shade. Too large can overwhelm your yard and block too much natural light. We help you find the right size that provides good coverage while maintaining visual balance.

Orientation and Sun Angle

The sun's path affects how much shade your structure provides at different times of day. We consider sun angles when positioning and designing your structure to maximize afternoon shade when you need it most. This is especially important in Florida where intense afternoon sun makes outdoor spaces uncomfortable.

Materials and Maintenance

Material choice affects appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Wood pergolas offer classic beauty but need periodic staining. Vinyl and composite structures require minimal maintenance but may have limited design options. We explain the pros and cons of each material so you can make an informed choice.

Integration with Existing Structures

If you are adding a structure to an existing deck or patio, it must integrate properly with the original construction. We ensure attachments are secure and waterproofed, support posts are properly located, and the new structure complements your home's style.

Enhancing Your Structure

Once you have your basic structure, additional features can make it even more functional and enjoyable:

• Lighting: LED string lights, recessed lighting, or decorative fixtures extend usability into the evening and create ambiance
• Fans: Ceiling fans improve comfort on hot, still days by creating air movement
• Privacy screens: Lattice panels or outdoor curtains provide privacy from neighbors while maintaining airflow
• Retractable shade: Add fabric canopies or retractable awnings for adjustable shade coverage
• Electrical outlets: Built-in power makes it easy to use outdoor appliances and devices
• Screening: Keep out mosquitoes and other insects while enjoying fresh air

We can incorporate these features into your initial build or add them later as your needs evolve. Many homeowners start with a basic structure and add enhancements over time as budget allows.

Permits and Regulations

Most outdoor structures require building permits in Horizon West. Permits ensure your structure is built safely and meets wind load requirements, which is critical in Florida. Unpermitted structures can cause problems when you sell your home or file insurance claims after storms.

We handle the entire permit process for you. We prepare the required plans, submit applications, and schedule inspections. Our experience with local building departments means smoother approval and fewer delays. We build to code and ensure your structure passes all required inspections.

If you have a homeowners association, you will likely need their approval before building. HOAs often have design guidelines that structures must follow. We can help you prepare your HOA application and can modify designs to meet their requirements while still achieving your goals.

The Installation Process

Building a pergola or patio cover typically takes one to two weeks depending on size and complexity. Here is what to expect:

We start with a design consultation where we discuss your vision, take measurements, and show you options. Once you approve the design and we obtain permits, we schedule the installation.

Construction begins with foundation work. We install posts with proper footings to support the structure. Foundation work is critical for stability and must be done right.

Next, we build the frame and roof structure. This includes beams, rafters, and any roofing materials. We ensure everything is level, square, and securely fastened.

Finally, we add finishing touches like paint or stain, decorative elements, and any additional features you requested. We clean up the work area and walk you through care instructions for your new structure.

Ready to Enhance Your Outdoor Space?

If you are ready to make your outdoor space more comfortable and usable, we can help. We design and build custom pergolas, patio covers, and outdoor structures for Horizon West homeowners. Our structures are built to Florida building codes and engineered to withstand our unique weather conditions. We also offer complete deck building services if you need both a new deck and shade structure.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We will visit your property, discuss your ideas, and provide a detailed estimate. Our goal is to create an outdoor structure that perfectly fits your lifestyle and enhances your home's value.

Frequently Asked Questions