Introduction

If you dream of having a patio that is weatherproof in Houston’s variable climate, choosing the right covering can seem daunting. We all are familiar with traditional shade sails, easy to install and cost efficient, they tend to rip under wind speeds of 40mph, and then you are stuck with repairs post a storm. Well, luckily newer technology and smarter materials mean those budget options in 2025 Houston can hold their own against 70+ mph winds without breaking the budget. In this blog, Mendiola, the area’s premier expert in patios, exposes some affordable, storm-resistant options that can save you money in the long term.

Concrete patio cover up Material Hacks for a Smart Patio Cover Up

When it comes to patio covers, material choice is everything. While the traditional options like shade sails may seem cost-effective, they are usually not able to withstand the Houston storms. Here, we dissect three material alternatives that serve as durable, low-cost options.

Corrugated Polycarbonate ($12/sq. ft)

There are a lot of corrugated polycarbonate patio covers out there. It provides the ideal mix of protection and affordability with the added bonus that it blocks UV rays and resists hail. Corrugated polycarbonate is built for durability to withstand extreme weather conditions and for long periods of sun exposure. Great for Houston weather. At a modest $12 per square foot, it is one of the best budget options for long-term protection.

Retractable Screens ($16/sq. ft)

Retractable screens are another fantastic option for patio coverings, particularly in a hurricane-prone area such as Houston. They roll up as well as roll down easily, so they are quite ideal to use when planning for the storm season. The time, expense and chances of damage you can avoid by removing them in advance of the storm are substantial. For just $16.50 per square foot, retractable screens can be used, and quality and function are both preserved.

Aluminum Kits ($19/sq.ft)

Aluminum Kits For the do-it-yourself types aluminum kits are hard to beat both in terms of strength and the price point. These kits are simple to install and when combined with hurricane tie-downs, provide a wind load that can withstand the heavy winds in Houston. At $19 a square foot, they may be a bit more expensive than polycarbonate or retractable screens, but the ease of installation and the material’s durability so far makes it an appealing choice for homeowners.

Houston-Smart Savings: Get More Savings on Patio Cover Installment

You don’t have to break the bank to cover your patio. Below are some clever tricks that will help you even save more when installing a patio cover.

No Concrete Footings? Ground Anchors Are a Solution

Concrete footings can be costly, but ground anchors provide for a more cost-efficient solution that provides the same stability. Homes can save as much as $2,000 in installation costs by forgoing cement foundations and opting for ground anchors instead. Ground anchors are particularly effective for sites that don’t need permanent footings, resulting in a less expensive, short-term assembly with minimal environmental impact.

Galveston Shortcut: Salt-Cured Pine Over Cedar

Cedar, though, is one of the hardiest materials that suit open-air structures, and salt-treated pine is a cheaper cousin that also turns off rot and pests. In some cases, salt treated pine can be up to 40% less expensive than cedar, which makes it an ideal option for homeowners on a budget. It performs well in humid, salty coastal environments like Houston, and it offers the durability found without the heavier price tag.

HOA Caveat: Temporary Structures to Dodge Permit Fees

Building codes and HOA rules can make a big increase in a patio project, in some neighborhoods. Given that it’s a largely unknown loophole, one workaround could be to investigate around-town “temporary” structures, which might fall outside the relating to permits or HOA approval. With other portable materials such as retractable screens or removable aluminum kits, you can avoid costly permits and fees while still building a charming and practical patio.

DIY Danger Zones: What to Look Out For

Although do-it-yourself patio installs can be cost-effective, Paige points out there are crucial risks to assess before you start hammering posts into the ground. Here are some tips to avoid common DIY mistakes where you end up paying more for it in the long run.

Attaching to Pier & Beam Structures Without Engineers

If you plan to connect your patio cover to a pier and beam home, you will most likely need to talk to an engineer. Not adequately supporting the weight of your patio cover would cause severe foundation damage that may cost thousands of dollars to repair. You can mitigate this risk by hiring an engineer to evaluate the structure of your home and ensure the installation is secure.

Applying Non-Rated Materials within Floodplains

Houston is notorious for flooding and if you’re in a flood prone area you’ll want flood resistant materials. Failure to apply non-rated materials in these areas can void your homeowner’s insurance and cause extensive damage during storms. Ensure that any material you select to use on your patio covering is flood-rated to safeguard both your investment and your home from flood damage.

Why Mendiola for Your Patio Needs?

At Mendiola’s Towing, we know that the ability to offer affordable rates while maintaining high safety standards is competitive edge. This is why our Beryl-Basic Package, currently on offer at $5,888, is the perfect solution for home owners in Houston. This covering kit comes with a 90mph-rated aluminum polycarbonate cover and includes the free, laser cut, aluminum wall-attached awning v-brackets, retro-fit anchors, and covers! And with installation in as little as 72 hours, you can start enjoying your new outdoor space right away.

Explore our Patio Covers Installation in Houston process and works.

Conclusion: Order Your Storm-Safe Shade for Your Patio Today

Conclusion Making a beautiful yet cheap patio cover in Houston is not as difficult as you might initially think. With the right materials, a bit of ingenuity, and some smart savings ideas, you can create an hurricane-resistant patio cover that won’t destroy your budget. If you’re ready to start, visit Mendiola Remodeling, Schedule a Free Consultation or Get a Free Estimation. Give your patio some storm protection and your budget a break while still enjoying year-round outdoor relaxation with a customized inexpensive solution.

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