The problem is that “patio cover” can mean several very different systems. This guide walks through every system A to Z Shades & Shutters installs — Alumi-Cover, Solara adjustable louvered covers, louvered pergolas, solid covers, and lattice covers — so you can choose what fits your yard, budget, and lifestyle.

At-a-Glance: 5 Patio Cover Systems We Install

1. Alumi-Cover Patio Covers: The Arizona Workhorse

Alumi-Cover is aluminum extruded and finished to look like real wood — including wood grain, beam profiles, and knot details — without the maintenance problems wood faces in Arizona. It will not warp in 115° heat, crack in winter, rot during monsoon season, feed termites, or need to be re-stained every few summers.

Alumi-Cover: Solid vs. Lattice

Solid Alumi-Cover uses a closed roof panel for maximum shade, rain protection, and a cooler patio feel. It is the most common choice for Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler back patios.

Lattice Alumi-Cover uses open beams in a grid, allowing dappled light and rain through. It is better for plants, climbing vines, and homeowners who want a softer open-air look.

2. Solara Adjustable Louvered Patio Covers: Total Control

Solara patio covers are the premium tier. The roof uses aluminum louvers that rotate from 0° fully open to 130° fully closed and weather-sealed. You can open the louvers for winter sun, angle them during summer heat, or close them when monsoon weather rolls in.

Why Arizona Homeowners Choose Solara

• Year-round usability: open for January sun, angled for July shade.
• Weather-tight closure: gaskets and integrated gutters help protect outdoor kitchens, TVs, rugs, and furniture.
• Built-in upgrades: lighting and fan-rated beams are available options.
• Resale appeal: Solara is a premium feature buyers recognize.

Honest Trade-Offs

• Solara generally costs more than an equivalent-size Alumi-Cover system.
• Motors and louvers are moving parts, so choosing a reliable installer matters.
• Made-to-order systems can have longer lead times.

“A Solara isn’t for every backyard. But if you actually use your patio year-round — morning coffee, evening dinners, watching games outside — it’s the only system that adapts to all of it.” The A to Z Shades & Shutters Install Team

3. Louvered Pergolas: The Design-Forward Option

Some homeowners want adjustable louvers with a modern, freestanding architectural look: clean square posts, flat roof lines, and integrated downspouts hidden inside the structure. These systems often fit best over pool decks, island BBQ areas, detached lounges, or outdoor rooms that are not directly attached to the home.

4. Solid Insulated Patio Covers: When You Want It to Feel Like a Room

A standard solid cover is one layer. An insulated solid cover uses a foam core sandwiched between aluminum skins. The result is a patio cover that feels cooler underneath in July, quieter during monsoon rain, and more finished inside.

This is the system to consider if you want recessed lighting, ceiling fans, speakers, a TV, an outdoor kitchen, or a sectional under a true outdoor-room style structure.

5. Lattice Patio Covers: Shade Plus Airflow

Lattice gives you partial shade with full airflow. It is often ideal for north- or east-facing patios, garden-focused patios, side yards, walkways, and dog runs.

For west-facing Arizona patios, pure lattice is usually not enough. If you want a softer look on a hot exposure, consider pairing lattice with a retractable shade screen on the sun side.

How to Choose: 5 Questions That Decide It

1. Which direction does the patio face? West and southwest exposures need maximum sun control.
2. Do you want winter sun? If yes, Solara or another louvered pergola is usually the best choice.
3. Are you adding electronics, rugs, or a TV? Weather-tight protection matters.
4. How long will you live there? Long-term homeowners should choose the system they truly want.
5. What is your honest budget? A good designer can work with your budget when they know it upfront.

What Drives Patio Cover Pricing in Arizona?

How to Compare Patio Cover Bids

• Is the contractor certified for the brand they are quoting?
• Is the full system spec listed on paper?
• Are permits and engineering included?
• How is the cover attached and waterproofed?
• What is the monsoon drainage plan?
• Is electrical included or extra?
• What are the written material and labor warranties?

“If a contractor can’t answer those questions clearly, that’s your answer. The patio cover that lasts 25 years in Phoenix is the one that was specced correctly on day one.” The A to Z Shades & Shutters Install Team

Serving Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe & the East Valley

A to Z Shades & Shutters is based at 235 W 9th Pl S in Mesa and installs patio covers across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, and surrounding East Valley communities. We are a certified Alumi-Cover and Solara dealer, and we help homeowners choose the right structure for Arizona heat, UV, monsoon weather, and everyday outdoor living.

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About A to Z Shades & Shutters

A to Z Shades & Shutters is a Mesa-based, family-run window treatment and outdoor shade company serving Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, and the surrounding East Valley. The company installs patio covers, exterior shades, shutters, awnings, and custom shade systems, including Solara, Alumi-Cover, Graber, SunSetter, and Sunbrella solutions.