Solid and lattice patio covers can both create useful shade, but they solve different problems. The right choice depends on how much sun you want to block, how bright you want the patio to feel, and how you plan to use the space.
Forever Awnings builds both styles for homeowners in Reno, Sparks and Northern Nevada, and many projects combine the two.
Choose a Solid Cover for Maximum Shade
A solid aluminum patio cover blocks direct overhead sun and provides the most consistent shade. It is a strong option for patios used for dining, seating, grilling, pets or outdoor furniture that would otherwise sit in full sun.
Solid covers can also provide more overhead weather protection than an open lattice design, which can make the space more usable through more of the year.
Choose Lattice for Filtered Light
Lattice patio covers break up direct sun while keeping the patio brighter and more open. They work well when homeowners want partial shade without creating the feel of a full roof.
Lattice can also be a good fit around windows or areas where preserving natural light inside the home is important.
Think About Morning and Afternoon Sun
Patio orientation matters. A cover that works well for overhead midday sun may not fully solve low-angle afternoon glare. West-facing patios often need a different shade strategy than more protected areas.
If the biggest problem is low-angle sun, a solid or lattice cover can be paired with drop shades to improve side protection.
A Combination Cover Can Balance Shade and Light
Some homeowners do not need to choose only one style. A combination cover can provide a solid section over the main seating or dining area and lattice over another portion of the patio.
This is one reason a custom patio cover can work better than a standard kit. The layout can follow the home, the patio and the way the family actually uses the yard.
Appearance Matters Too
Solid covers create a more substantial roofline. Lattice covers look lighter and can cast patterned shade throughout the day. The home’s architecture, roofline, yard layout and color choices all affect which approach looks most natural.
Both Styles Still Need Proper Structural Planning
Regardless of style, the patio cover still needs to be planned for local wind and snow conditions, attachment method, span and the existing home. Those details should be addressed before installation.
See Examples Before You Decide
Browse the Forever Awnings patio cover gallery to compare real solid and lattice projects in Northern Nevada.
If you are in Sparks, visit our Sparks patio cover page for more local information.
Get Help Choosing the Right Cover
If you are not sure whether solid, lattice or a combination is best, tell us when your patio gets the most sun and how you want to use the space. We can help you compare the options.
Request a free quote for a custom aluminum patio cover in Reno, Sparks or Northern Nevada.