More than 60% of homeowners say they avoid using their patio in the peak of summer because it’s simply too hot and bright to enjoy. That statistic surprises a lot of people, especially in a sun-drenched area like Sherman, TX, where outdoor living is part of everyday life. The truth is, without the right shade solution, even the nicest patio becomes a space you pass by through the window instead of a place you actually live in.
That’s where a skilled patio cover builder makes a dramatic difference. A thoughtfully designed cover doesn’t just block sun; it shapes how you use your backyard, how your home looks from the street, and even how comfortable your indoor spaces feel. Stylish shade options—ranging from solid roofs to modern pergolas and hybrid systems—can turn a bare slab of concrete into a true outdoor room. For homeowners in Sherman, TX, partnering with a company like Lowery Fence & Patio means you can tailor that shade to your lifestyle, your architecture, and your budget instead of settling for a one-size-fits-all kit.
When you start exploring patio cover designs, you quickly realize that “shade” isn’t a single product. It’s a spectrum of solutions that control light, heat, privacy, and style in different ways. Some homeowners want a cool, fully covered retreat that feels like an extension of their living room. Others prefer a dappled, open-air feel that keeps the view of the sky while softening the intensity of Texas sun. A good builder helps you sort through those options, understand the trade-offs, and land on a design that looks intentional rather than tacked on.
Why Shade Matters In Texas
In Sherman, TX, summer temperatures regularly climb into the 90s and beyond, and that has real consequences for how you design your outdoor space. A bare patio can become almost unusable by late morning, and surface temperatures on concrete or pavers can soar well above the air temperature. This not only makes it uncomfortable to walk barefoot or sit outside, but it also accelerates fading of furniture fabrics, warping of outdoor materials, and general wear on anything left in the sun.
Adding a patio cover is one of the most effective ways to combat that heat. Shade can reduce surface temperatures on your patio by 20–30 degrees, and it can significantly cut the amount of solar gain hitting adjacent windows and doors. That means your air conditioner does not have to work as hard, your indoor spaces stay more comfortable, and you may see a noticeable reduction in energy bills during the hottest months. For many Sherman homeowners, this energy benefit is an unexpected bonus on top of the comfort and aesthetic upgrades.
Shade also extends the usable hours of your backyard. Instead of rushing outside only in the early morning or late evening, you can comfortably entertain, read, grill, or work from your patio during the middle of the day. Families with kids and pets especially appreciate having a cool, protected area where everyone can be outside without risking sunburn after a short time. Lowery Fence & Patio understands these local climate realities and designs covers specifically to handle intense Texas sun, seasonal storms, and shifting weather patterns.
Finally, shade influences how you perceive your entire property. A covered patio creates a sense of enclosure and destination, transforming a simple back door into the entry point of a defined outdoor room. When done well, it can visually anchor the backyard, tie together landscaping, and create a focal point that makes the whole home feel more complete and well planned.
Solid Roof Patio Covers
For homeowners who want maximum protection from sun and rain, a solid roof patio cover is often the first option to consider. This style essentially creates an outdoor ceiling, turning your patio into a sheltered extension of your home. In Sherman, TX, where sudden thunderstorms can roll in as quickly as a sunny afternoon, a solid cover allows you to keep using the space regardless of weather changes. You can grill in light rain, host guests without worrying about a passing shower, and leave outdoor furniture in place year-round.
Solid roof covers can be built to match the architecture of your home, which is a major advantage for curb appeal and resale value. Lowery Fence & Patio can coordinate roof pitch, shingle type, trim details, and support columns so the cover looks like it was always part of the original construction. This cohesive look is especially important if your patio is visible from the street or wraps around the side of the home. Instead of looking like an add-on, the structure blends with your existing rooflines.
Material choices for solid roof covers include traditional wood framing with shingles, insulated aluminum panels, and hybrid systems that combine structural metal with decorative finishes. Insulated panels are particularly popular for their ability to reduce heat transfer, helping keep the area beneath cooler and quieter when rain hits. Electrical options such as ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and outdoor heaters can be integrated into the structure, turning the space into a multi-season room you can use for dining, watching games, or relaxing in the evenings.
However, a solid cover does block most natural light from above, so placement and design must consider the impact on adjacent interior rooms. A professional builder will evaluate window locations, indoor lighting, and your preferred time of day for using the space to ensure the cover enhances rather than darkens your home. In some cases, adding skylights or translucent panels to the cover can bring back some overhead brightness without sacrificing protection.
Pergolas And Lattice Designs
On the other end of the shade spectrum are pergolas and lattice-style covers, which offer a more open, airy feel. Instead of a solid roof, these structures use a framework of beams and slats to create partial shade. The result is a dappled pattern of light and shadow that many homeowners find more inviting and visually interesting than a fully enclosed ceiling. In Sherman’s bright climate, this kind of filtered light can be ideal for those who still want to see the sky and feel connected to the outdoors.
Pergolas are highly customizable in both form and function. The spacing, orientation, and width of the slats can be adjusted to control how much sun gets through at different times of day. For example, running slats perpendicular to the path of the sun and tightening the spacing can increase shade during peak afternoon hours. Lowery Fence & Patio can model how the sun will move across your patio throughout the year so the pergola is not just attractive, but also performs the way you need it to.
Material choices for pergolas include classic wood, low-maintenance aluminum, and composite options. Wood offers a warm, traditional look and can be stained or painted to complement your home’s exterior. Aluminum and composite systems provide long-term durability with minimal upkeep, which appeals to busy homeowners who do not want to worry about frequent refinishing. Decorative end cuts on beams, integrated lighting, and climbing plants like wisteria or jasmine can all be used to personalize the structure.
Another advantage of pergolas is their flexibility. They can be freestanding in the middle of a yard, attached to the home, or used to define zones such as an outdoor dining area or a seating nook near a pool. For Sherman properties with large backyards, multiple pergolas or a series of connected structures can create a resort-like feel. While they do not provide the same level of rain protection as a solid roof, optional add-ons like retractable canopies or shade cloth can increase coverage when needed.
Louvered And Adjustable Covers
For homeowners who want the best of both worlds—open sky when they want it and solid shade when they need it—louvered patio covers are an increasingly popular solution. These systems use adjustable slats that can be tilted or fully closed, allowing you to control the amount of sun, shade, and ventilation at any moment. In a climate like Sherman, TX, where conditions can change quickly, this level of flexibility can dramatically increase how often you use your patio.
Many louvered systems are motorized, so you can adjust the cover with a remote, wall switch, or even a smartphone app. On a hot afternoon, you might close the louvers almost completely to block direct sun while still allowing warm air to escape through the gaps. In the evening, you can open them to enjoy the sky and catch a breeze. When rain is in the forecast, you can close the louvers to create a nearly watertight surface that protects furniture and outdoor electronics.
From a design standpoint, louvered covers tend to have a clean, contemporary look that pairs well with modern homes or updated exteriors. Aluminum construction is common, providing strength without excessive weight and resisting rust and corrosion. Color options can be selected to blend with existing trim, windows, and doors. Lowery Fence & Patio can integrate these systems into both new and existing patios, coordinating structural support and drainage so water is directed away from the home.
While louvered covers involve a higher upfront investment than simple pergolas, many Sherman homeowners view them as a long-term upgrade that enhances daily life and property value. Having the ability to “tune” your shade means you are not locked into a single level of light year-round. This is especially useful for patios that serve multiple purposes, such as a daytime play area for kids and an evening entertaining space for adults.
Styling Your Shade Structure
Once you have chosen the basic type of patio cover, the next step is making it feel like a natural extension of your style and your home’s architecture. A structurally sound cover is essential, but details are what transform it into a space you are proud to show off. In Sherman, TX, where many homes range from traditional brick to newer craftsman and ranch styles, there is no one “right” look—only what fits your taste and property.
Support columns are a major visual element. Simple posts may be sufficient for a minimalist design, while wrapped columns with stone bases or decorative trim can create a more upscale appearance. Matching or coordinating these columns with existing porch columns, railings, or masonry helps tie the entire exterior together. Lowery Fence & Patio can suggest column profiles and finishes that harmonize with your home instead of competing with it.
Color and finish also play a huge role. Stained wood can warm up a brick exterior, while painted structures can either blend in or deliberately contrast for a bold statement. For aluminum or composite systems, factory finishes offer durability and consistent color. Incorporating accent elements such as tongue-and-groove ceiling panels, decorative corbels, or integrated lighting fixtures can give your cover a custom, finished feel that goes beyond a basic shade solution.
Do not overlook the furnishings and accessories beneath the cover. The shade you add allows you to invest in more comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, and decor that would quickly fade or deteriorate in full sun. String lights, ceiling fans, and planters help define the space and make it feel like an outdoor living room rather than just a covered slab. A well-designed patio cover should invite you to linger, not just pass through.
Working With A Local Patio Cover Builder
Designing and building a patio cover that looks great and performs well in Sherman’s climate is not a simple weekend project. Local building codes, wind ratings, attachment methods, and drainage all have to be handled correctly to avoid problems down the road. Partnering with an experienced builder like Lowery Fence & Patio means these technical details are handled professionally while you focus on how you want the space to look and feel.
A good builder will start with a conversation about how you currently use your backyard and how you would like to use it in the future. Do you envision large gatherings, quiet mornings with coffee, or a mix of both? Do you need privacy from neighboring homes or more openness to enjoy a view? By understanding your priorities, they can recommend whether a solid roof, pergola, louvered system, or hybrid solution best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Local expertise also matters when it comes to weather and maintenance expectations. A builder who works regularly in Sherman, TX, knows how structures hold up to summer heat, occasional ice, and strong winds. They can guide you toward materials and designs that require less upkeep while still delivering the style you want. This is especially important if you are comparing options like wood versus aluminum or considering specialty features like integrated gutters and lighting.
Finally, a professional installation provides peace of mind. Proper footings, secure connections to the home, and thoughtful water management all protect your existing structure from damage. Done right, a patio cover feels like an upgrade to your whole property. Done poorly, it can create leaks, shifting posts, or even safety hazards. Choosing a reputable company ensures your investment adds long-term value and enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide which type of patio cover is best for my home? Start by thinking about how you want to use the space and what bothers you most about your current patio. If intense sun and rain are your primary concerns, a solid roof cover may be the best fit. If you want light, airy shade and a strong visual feature, a pergola or lattice design might suit you better. For maximum flexibility, adjustable louvered systems combine both approaches. A builder like Lowery Fence & Patio can walk you through examples, show you how each option performs in Sherman’s climate, and help you balance aesthetics, function, and budget.
Will a patio cover make my house too dark inside? It depends on the design and placement, which is why planning is so important. A solid roof cover will reduce direct sunlight entering nearby windows, but that can be a benefit during hot Texas summers by lowering indoor temperatures. If you are concerned about losing too much natural light, your builder can adjust the size and projection of the cover, incorporate skylights or translucent panels, or recommend a pergola or louvered system that allows more light through. Evaluating window locations and your daily light preferences before building is key to getting the balance right.
What materials require the least maintenance in Sherman, TX? Aluminum and high-quality composite materials typically require the least maintenance, as they resist rot, insects, and warping. They usually only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking good. Wood offers a classic, warm appearance but needs more regular care, such as staining or painting, especially in areas exposed to strong sun and weather. Lowery Fence & Patio can explain the pros and cons of each material in the context of Sherman’s climate and your willingness to perform or schedule routine upkeep.
Can I add lighting, fans, or other features to my patio cover? Yes, many patio covers are designed from the start to incorporate electrical features such as ceiling fans, recessed lighting, pendant fixtures, and even outdoor heaters or TV mounts. Planning these details early in the design process allows wiring and support to be integrated cleanly into the structure. This turns your patio into a true outdoor room that can be used comfortably at night and in different seasons, rather than a space that only works during daylight hours.
Does a patio cover add value to my property? A well-designed, professionally built patio cover often adds both functional and perceived value to a home. Buyers increasingly look for usable outdoor living spaces, especially in areas like Sherman, TX, where the climate supports year-round outdoor enjoyment. A cover that matches your home’s architecture, provides comfortable shade, and creates a defined gathering area can make your property stand out. While exact return on investment varies, many homeowners find that the daily enjoyment they gain from the space is worth as much as any resale benefit. For related exterior improvements, some homeowners also explore Fence repair services to further enhance curb appeal and privacy.