Have you ever stepped outside on a beautiful North Texas afternoon, only to retreat back indoors because the sun was simply too intense to enjoy your own backyard? For many homeowners in Sherman, TX, that moment is the turning point when they realize a patio cover is not a luxury—it is the key to actually using their outdoor space year-round. A well-designed patio cover transforms a slab of concrete or a simple deck into a functional outdoor room, providing shade, shelter, and a sense of place that invites you to linger instead of rush back inside.
Patio covers do much more than block the sun. They create a protective envelope over one of the most valuable parts of your property: the transition zone between your home and your yard. With the right design and materials, a patio cover shields your furniture from weather damage, keeps your doors and windows cooler, and extends your living space in a way that feels natural and comfortable. In a climate like Sherman’s—where hot summers, bright sun, and sudden storms are the norm—this protection directly translates into more time outside, more gatherings with friends and family, and more enjoyment of your investment.
Lowery Fence & Patio has seen firsthand how adding a patio cover can change the way people live at home. Homeowners who once avoided their backyard in the afternoon now host weekend cookouts, watch games outside, or simply sip coffee on a covered patio while listening to the rain. The right cover does not just sit over your head; it supports the lifestyle you want, while adding value and character to your property.
Why Patio Covers Matter
At first glance, a patio cover might look like a simple shade structure, but its importance goes much deeper. In Sherman, TX, the combination of strong sun and high summer temperatures can make an uncovered patio almost unusable during the hottest parts of the day. A properly designed cover can lower the temperature in the shaded area by several degrees, making the difference between a surface that scorches bare feet and a place where kids can safely play or pets can relax. This temperature reduction also helps protect the surfaces beneath, preventing cracking, fading, and premature wear on concrete, pavers, or decking.
Weather in North Texas is also known for its unpredictability. A clear afternoon can quickly turn into a pop-up thunderstorm, and without protection, outdoor cushions, grills, and decor can take a beating. A sturdy patio cover shields your outdoor furnishings from sudden rain and wind-driven debris, meaning less time dragging items inside and more confidence that your investment will last. Over time, this protection significantly reduces replacement costs and keeps your outdoor space looking well-maintained instead of weather-beaten.
There is also a subtle but important comfort factor. Sun glare can make it difficult to read, work on a laptop, or even hold a conversation without squinting. A cover softens the light, creating a gentler, more relaxing environment. When Lowery Fence & Patio designs and installs a patio cover, the goal is not only to block harsh sun but to shape the light and airflow so that your patio feels like an extension of your living room, not an afterthought exposed to the elements.
Types of Patio Covers
One of the first decisions homeowners in Sherman face is what type of patio cover best suits their needs. Solid roof covers are a popular choice because they provide full protection from both sun and rain. Built with materials like wood framing and roofing that complement the home, these structures turn a patio into a true outdoor room. You can sit outside during a light rain, keep your grill station dry, and rely on consistent shade throughout the day. For those who value all-weather use, a solid cover is often the most practical solution.
Pergolas offer a different experience. Instead of a continuous roof, a pergola uses beams and slats to filter sunlight, creating dappled shade that many homeowners find visually appealing. While a pergola does not provide the same level of rain protection as a solid cover, it excels at reducing direct sun while maintaining an open, airy feel. In Sherman’s climate, some homeowners pair a pergola with climbing plants or fabric shades to further control sun exposure while maintaining a stylish, resort-like atmosphere.
There are also hybrid and adjustable options that allow you to control how much light reaches the patio. Louvered roof systems, for example, feature slats that can be angled open or closed depending on the weather and your preference. On cool spring days, you might open the louvers to enjoy more sunlight; on hot August afternoons, you can close them for full shade. Lowery Fence & Patio helps homeowners navigate these choices by asking how they actually plan to use the space—daily dining, occasional parties, quiet relaxation—and then recommending a cover that fits those patterns instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all solution.
Designing For Sherman’s Climate
Building a patio cover in Sherman, TX is not just about aesthetics; it is about performance in a specific climate. Summers are long, hot, and sunny, so orientation matters. A cover on the west or south side of a home needs to contend with intense afternoon sun, while an east-facing patio might benefit more from morning shade. Lowery Fence & Patio takes into account the sun’s path, the angle of light at different times of year, and even reflections off nearby surfaces when planning a cover. This attention to detail ensures you are not just getting shade, but the right shade at the right time of day.
Wind and storms are another key consideration. North Texas can experience strong gusts and sudden downpours, so the structure must be engineered to withstand these forces. That means proper footings, secure anchoring, and materials rated for local conditions. A patio cover that looks fine on a calm day but rattles or flexes in a storm will not inspire confidence. By following local building codes and best practices, a professional installer like Lowery Fence & Patio ensures your cover is as durable as it is attractive.
Rain management is often overlooked until water starts pooling near the house. A well-designed patio cover incorporates gutters, downspouts, and proper slope so that water is directed safely away from your foundation and high-traffic areas. In Sherman, where heavy rain events can occur, this is essential to prevent erosion, muddy walkways, and damage to landscaping. Thoughtful design transforms a simple overhead cover into a complete system that protects both the patio and the home itself.
Materials, Style, and Home Value
The material you choose for your patio cover has a major impact on appearance, maintenance, and long-term value. Wood is a classic choice that many Sherman homeowners love for its warmth and natural character. It can be stained or painted to match your home, and it offers a timeless look that pairs well with traditional architecture. However, wood does require periodic maintenance to protect it from moisture, insects, and UV exposure. When properly cared for, though, a wood patio cover can last many years and age gracefully.
Metal and aluminum systems offer a lower-maintenance alternative. These covers can be designed to mimic the look of wood while providing excellent resistance to rot, warping, and insect damage. They are particularly appealing for homeowners who want durability with minimal upkeep. Some systems even integrate insulation in the roof panels, which can help reduce heat transfer and create a cooler space beneath, a significant benefit in Sherman’s summer heat.
Style is equally important. A patio cover should look like it belongs with your home, not like an add-on that was bolted in place as an afterthought. Roof pitch, trim details, column style, and color all affect how well the cover blends with existing architecture. Lowery Fence & Patio works to mirror or complement the home’s roofline and materials so that the end result enhances curb appeal. A thoughtfully designed cover can increase perceived square footage, making your property more attractive if you decide to sell, and serving as a strong selling point for buyers who value outdoor living.
Everyday Benefits You’ll Notice
The most obvious benefit of a patio cover is shade, but once it is installed, homeowners in Sherman often notice other advantages they did not anticipate. One of these is improved comfort inside the home. When direct sun is blocked from hitting large glass doors or windows, the interior stays cooler, and your air conditioning system does not have to work as hard. Over time, this can contribute to energy savings, especially during peak summer months.
You will also likely find yourself using your patio for a wider range of activities. With protection from overhead sun and light rain, that outdoor space becomes suitable for working from home, doing homework with kids, or setting up a small outdoor gym. Evening gatherings become more comfortable as the covered area retains less heat and feels more inviting. Lighting, ceiling fans, and even mounted heaters can be added to extend usability into the evening and cooler seasons.
Another everyday benefit is the reduced wear on your outdoor furnishings. Cushions fade more slowly, finishes on tables and chairs stay intact longer, and grills or outdoor kitchens are less exposed to the elements. This not only saves money but also keeps your space looking fresh and cared for. Lowery Fence & Patio has seen clients who once replaced their patio furniture frequently now enjoy the same pieces for years, simply because they are no longer sitting in direct sun and rain.
Working With a Local Patio Expert
Choosing the right partner for your patio cover project in Sherman, TX can make the difference between a structure that looks good on day one and one that continues to perform year after year. A local company like Lowery Fence & Patio understands the specific challenges of building in North Texas—from soil conditions that affect footings to wind patterns that influence structural design. This local knowledge is invaluable when planning a cover that will stand up to real-world conditions, not just look good in a brochure.
The process typically begins with a conversation about how you live. Do you entertain large groups or prefer quiet evenings with family? Do you need space for an outdoor kitchen, a hot tub, or a TV area? By starting with lifestyle needs instead of jumping straight to materials and dimensions, a professional can design a cover that feels custom-tailored to you. Accurate measurements, attention to drainage, and coordination with existing features like fences, decks, and landscaping are all part of a well-executed project.
Permits and local regulations are another area where professional guidance helps. City requirements, property lines, and HOA rules can all influence what can be built and where. Lowery Fence & Patio navigates these details so homeowners do not have to guess or risk non-compliance. While the company also handles related services like fencing and even Temporary security fencing for projects and events, its patio work is focused on creating outdoor structures that are safe, legal, and visually integrated with the rest of the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much shade will a patio cover actually provide? The amount of shade depends on the type of cover and its orientation. A solid roof cover offers near-total shade throughout the day, while a pergola or louvered system provides partial shade that varies as the sun moves. In Sherman, TX, Lowery Fence & Patio often designs covers to block the most intense afternoon sun from the west and south, which can reduce surface temperatures significantly and make the patio comfortable even in midsummer. During planning, the installer can explain how different designs will perform at specific times of day.
Will a patio cover add value to my home? A well-designed, professionally built patio cover typically increases both the functional and perceived value of a home. Buyers in Sherman often look for outdoor living features because they know how valuable shade and shelter are in the local climate. When a cover is integrated with the home’s architecture and uses durable materials, it can make the property stand out in the market. While exact value depends on size, design, and neighborhood, many homeowners view a patio cover as an investment that pays off in both resale potential and daily enjoyment.
What kind of maintenance does a patio cover require? Maintenance needs vary by material. Wood structures require periodic staining or painting to protect against moisture, UV rays, and insects, as well as occasional inspections for any signs of wear. Metal and aluminum covers tend to require less upkeep, usually limited to cleaning and checking for loose fasteners or minor cosmetic issues. Regardless of material, it is wise to keep gutters clear, remove debris from the roof, and inspect after major storms. Lowery Fence & Patio can provide guidance on a simple maintenance schedule tailored to your specific cover.
Can I add lighting, fans, or heaters to my patio cover? Yes, many patio covers are designed with electrical options in mind. Ceiling fans help keep air moving on still summer days, while integrated lighting makes the space usable after dark. In cooler months, mounted heaters extend the season for outdoor dining and relaxation. When planning the cover, it is important to consider wiring, switch locations, and fixture placement so everything is safe and code-compliant. Working with professionals ensures that electrical components are properly integrated into the structure from the beginning, rather than added as an afterthought.
How do I choose the right size and layout for my patio cover? The ideal size depends on how you plan to use the space and what you want to protect. If you entertain frequently, you may need room for a large dining table, a seating area, and clear walkways. If your focus is on a quiet reading nook or a small grill station, a more compact cover might suffice. Lowery Fence & Patio typically assesses existing patio dimensions, furniture, and traffic patterns to suggest a layout that feels generous without overwhelming the yard. Thinking ahead about future uses—such as adding an outdoor kitchen or hot tub—can also influence the final design so the cover serves you well for years to come.