Pergolas, Patio Covers & Outdoor Structures
Create comfortable outdoor living spaces with custom-built shade structures
(559) 557-4911Your backyard has potential. The right outdoor structure transforms unused space into your favorite place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. Pergolas and patio covers provide shade and definition to outdoor areas while adding style and value to your property.
At VSP Visalia Sunrooms & Patios, we design and build custom outdoor structures that fit your space, style, and budget. Whether you want a simple pergola, a solid patio cover, or a combination structure, we create solutions that enhance your outdoor living experience.
Types of Outdoor Structures We Build
We build several types of outdoor structures, each offering different benefits for your backyard.
Pergolas
Pergolas feature open roofs with crossbeams that provide partial shade while maintaining an airy, open feel. They're perfect for defining outdoor dining or seating areas without completely blocking the sun. You can add climbing plants to increase shade over time, or install fabric panels for adjustable coverage.
Solid Patio Covers
Solid patio covers provide complete protection from sun and rain. They extend your home's roofline or stand independently, creating a fully covered outdoor room. Solid covers are ideal if you want maximum shade and weather protection for outdoor furniture and entertaining spaces.
Louvered Roof Systems
Louvered systems feature adjustable slats that rotate to control light and ventilation. Open the louvers on nice days for an open-air feel. Close them for full shade or rain protection. These systems offer the ultimate flexibility for year-round outdoor enjoyment.
Combination Structures
Many homeowners choose combination structures that mix pergola sections with solid roofing. This creates interesting visual appeal while providing both shaded and semi-open areas. We work with you to design a custom layout that fits your needs.
Why Add an Outdoor Structure to Your Visalia Home
Outdoor structures provide benefits that go beyond just shade. Here's why Visalia homeowners invest in pergolas and patio covers.
- •Sun protection: Essential in our hot Central Valley climate where summer sun can make patios unusable
- •Extended usability: Use your patio or deck comfortably during more hours of the day
- •Furniture protection: Keep outdoor furniture from fading and deteriorating in direct sunlight
- •Defined outdoor rooms: Create distinct areas for dining, lounging, or cooking
- •Increased home value: Well-built outdoor structures appeal to buyers and boost property value
- •Architectural interest: Add visual appeal and character to your home's exterior
Designing Your Perfect Outdoor Structure
Creating the right outdoor structure involves considering several factors. Here's what we think about during the design process.
Size and Placement
The size of your structure depends on your available space and how you plan to use it. A dining area needs enough room for a table and chairs plus space to walk around. Lounging areas have different requirements. We help you determine the right dimensions and optimal placement on your property.
Sun Angle and Shade Coverage
In Visalia, understanding sun patterns is crucial. We evaluate where the sun hits your patio at different times of day and throughout the year. This helps us orient your structure and choose roof spacing or coverage levels that provide shade when you need it most.
Materials and Durability
We build with materials designed to last in Central Valley weather. Options include wood for a classic look, aluminum for low maintenance, or composite materials that combine the best of both. We explain the pros and cons of each material to help you make the right choice for your situation.
Style and Aesthetics
Your outdoor structure should complement your home's architecture. We offer modern, traditional, and craftsman styles, each with various detail options. Colors, beam sizes, and decorative elements all contribute to the final look. We work with you to create a design you'll love.
Enhance Your Outdoor Structure With These Features
Basic structures are great, but adding features makes them even more functional and enjoyable. Here are popular upgrades we can include in your project.
Lighting
Recessed lighting, string lights, or pendant fixtures extend the use of your outdoor space into the evening. We can wire your structure for permanent lighting or install compatible mounting points for your preferred fixtures.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans keep air moving on warm days, making your covered patio significantly more comfortable. We install fan-rated junction boxes and ensure your structure can support the weight and operation of ceiling fans.
Electrical Outlets
Outdoor outlets are convenient for entertaining, plugging in string lights, or charging devices. We coordinate with licensed electricians to safely add outlets where you need them.
Side Panels or Screens
Adding panels or screens to one or more sides provides privacy, wind protection, or bug barriers. This essentially converts your patio cover into a screen room or partial enclosure for added versatility.
What to Expect During Construction
Building an outdoor structure is typically faster and less disruptive than building a full sunroom. Here's an overview of the process.
After finalizing your design, we obtain any necessary permits. Most pergolas and patio covers require permits in Visalia to ensure they meet wind and structural requirements. We handle all the paperwork for you.
Construction begins with setting posts and pouring concrete footings. Once the footings cure, we build the structure frame, install the roof system, and add any finishing touches like paint or stain. Electrical work happens during the framing stage if you're adding lights or fans.
Most outdoor structure projects take one to three weeks from start to finish. Simple pergolas are on the faster end, while large combination structures with electrical features take longer. We provide a realistic timeline during your consultation and keep you updated as work progresses.
Common Questions About Pergolas and Patio Covers
Ready to Build Your Outdoor Structure?
Let's create an outdoor space you'll love. We offer free consultations and detailed quotes for homeowners in Visalia and throughout the Central Valley. Call us today to discuss your project.
(559) 557-4911
