Do Aluminum Patio Covers Get Hot?
Yes, just like wood, vinyl, steel, or any other material under the sun, aluminum patio covers get hot. What's more important is whether they help keep your outdoor space cool. In Southern California, where the summer sun is intense, a well-designed patio cover can make all the difference.
Do All Patio Covers Get Hot?
Some materials absorb more heat than others, but all patio covers–aluminum, wood, vinyl, or fabric–will get warm under direct sun. Aluminum heats up quickly but reflects well. Wood absorbs heat and radiates it more slowly. Vinyl softens in extreme heat and can warp over time. Fabric provides extra shade with airflow, but doesn't last as long in dry desert climates.
Why do Aluminum Pergolas get hot?
Aluminum has a high thermal conductivity, which is a fancy way of saying that it changes temperature rapidly depending on its environment. The top surface of the roof absorbs some of the heat while reflecting most of it. That heat is transferred through the material, kind of like how aluminum foil heats up when it touches something hot.
What Happens If Aluminum Patio Roofs Get Too hot?
Most heat is reflected, while some is absorbed and transferred to the air underneath.
Aluminum patio covers are designed to handle high temperatures without issue. The only concern for homeowners is when there's little to no breeze to carry fresh air into the covered area. In stagnant conditions, there is some heat accumulation under the patio cover. While this might be nice in winter, it's certainly not pleasant during the blistering summer heat. A lattice, louvered, or insulated patio cover design can prevent heat from accumulating.
How Airflow Affects Heat Buildup
Standard (non-insulated) solid patio covers trap warm air if there’s no way for it to escape. That’s why most of our clients opt to install an outdoor fan to help circulate air and push it out the sides of the patio cover.
On the other hand, Lattice patio covers allow constant airflow. There’s also louvered systems that let you adjust airflow and shade depending on time of day. For hot inland climates like Menifee or Palm Desert, airflow is often more important than material.
Which Patio Cover Design is the Best to Prevent Heat Build Up?
Insulated patio cover with fan and misting system to keep the area comfortable in the summer
An insulated patio cover, especially one with an attached fan, is the best solution for keeping your outdoor dining area or seating area cool. This design involves interlocking insulated panels that create a solid covering. Each panel is built with a thick layer of high density foam insulation sandwiched between layers of aluminum. The top layer does its job of reflecting heat back into the atmosphere, while the bottom layer remains at the same temperature as the surrounding area.
Top Tips for Staying Cool Under a Patio Cover
Use a ceiling fan to circulate air
Install a misting system for hot afternoons
Choose light-colored materials that reflect heat
Add drop shades or other shade solutions for low-angle sun
Want to Talk to an Aluminum Patio Cover Specialist?
Valley Patios has been installing aluminum patio covers and other shade structures across Southern California for more than 15 years. We have offices in San Diego, Orange County, Riverside, and the Coachella Valley. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. Give us a call at (800) 951-4089 or browse through our aluminum patio cover installation services to learn more
FAQs
Is a solid patio cover hotter than a lattice cover?
Yes, but insulated patio covers are cooler than lattice covers. Standard solid covers block sunlight completely, but without ventilation, they can trap warm air. Lattice covers offer airflow and partial shade, which often feels cooler in dry heat.
Does patio cover color affect temperature?
Yes. Light-colored covers reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, making them cooler to the touch than darker options.
Which patio cover is best for hot weather?
Insulated patio covers are the best for reducing heat buildup. Louvered roof systems also offer flexible control over shade and airflow throughout the day.