Nothing enhances a backyard pool project like the right patio cover. Whether your client is looking for a place to cool off in the shade, host outdoor gatherings, or simply elevate the aesthetics of their backyard, a patio cover can make all the difference.

As a contractor, you know that the details matter. From materials to design, the right patio cover can be the feature that turns a great pool area into an unforgettable outdoor retreat. In this blog, we’ll help you determine which type of patio cover is best suited for your client’s poolside project—so you can deliver results that are both functional and visually stunning.

Understand Your Client's Lifestyle and Needs

Every client has unique priorities when it comes to outdoor living. That’s why the first step in selecting the perfect patio cover is understanding how the space will be used.

Are they looking for full-shade coverage, or do they want a design that filters sunlight while maintaining an open feel? Will the space be used primarily for lounging and relaxing, or do they entertain frequently and need weather protection for outdoor dining? By getting clarity on their lifestyle goals, you can recommend a structure that complements both their vision and the way they use their space.

Choosing the Right Patio Cover Style

The style of patio cover you recommend should strike the right balance between form and function, while also matching the design of the home and surrounding space. Pergolas are a great option when your client wants filtered sunlight and a decorative element that feels open and breezy. They can also be easily upgraded with climbing plants or string lighting for ambiance.

Cabanas offer a more enclosed feel, making them ideal for clients who want privacy or defined lounging zones. Solid patio covers, on the other hand, provide full overhead protection—perfect for outdoor kitchens, seating areas, or places that need year-round usability. And if your client wants the best of both worlds, hybrid structures combine multiple elements, giving you room to customize both aesthetics and functionality.

Choose Materials That Last (and Look Good)

The material you choose has to do more than look good—it needs to hold up to your local climate, align with the client’s expectations, and require minimal upkeep.

Western Red Cedar remains a favorite among professionals for its natural resistance to rot and insects, as well as its warm, high-end appearance. It’s especially fitting for traditional or rustic properties. Steel is the go-to option for clients who want a clean, modern look with maximum durability and low maintenance. Composite materials also offer a solid middle ground, delivering the appearance of wood with better resistance to the elements.

When you’re working in regions like Dallas-Fort Worth, it’s essential to choose materials that can withstand UV exposure, heat, wind, and the occasional storm—without compromising on appearance over time.

Design Tips That Add Value

A well-designed patio cover should enhance the overall look and utility of the outdoor space. When you’re designing for a client, start by making sure the structure complements the home’s existing architecture and materials. The cover should feel like a natural extension of the home, not an afterthought.

Finish choices, stain colors, and additional features like ceiling fans, pendant lighting, or retractable curtains can dramatically increase functionality and comfort. These small details are what turn a basic install into a standout project—one that your client will rave about and that will elevate your portfolio.

Why Custom Covers Win Every Time

When you're building premium spaces for clients, custom is king. A prefabricated or cookie-cutter patio cover often fails to take full advantage of the site layout, existing landscaping, or specific homeowner preferences. A custom solution, on the other hand, ensures every angle, material, and finish is tailored to the project’s needs.

At Cedar Shade Co, we specialize in custom outdoor structures designed to fit your plans. Every structure comes with conceptual drawings, so your clients can visualize the result before installation begins. This reduces back-and-forth and helps you close projects with confidence and clarity.

Questions to Ask Before Finalizing a Patio Cover

Here's a checklist you can use to guide your client through the decision-making process and ensure you're on the same page:

• What is your overall budget for the patio cover and installation?
  

• Do we need to account for HOA guidelines or permitting?
  

• How soon do you want the project completed?
  

• Are you looking for full shade, partial cover, or a blend of both?
  

• Do you want to integrate lighting, fans, or curtains into the design?
  

• How important is long-term maintenance or material durability?
  

These questions will help you narrow down the right solution and set clear expectations with the client from day one.

Why Contractors Trust Cedar Shade Co

As a contractor, you need a partner that delivers on quality, consistency, and speed. That’s where Cedar Shade Co comes in. We work directly with contractors, pool builders, and outdoor living specialists to fabricate and deliver premium patio cover components—built to your specs and schedule.

Our team is known across the DFW area for high-quality craftsmanship, fast turnarounds on custom builds, and seamless communication. Whether you're sourcing a cedar pergola or a steel patio cover, we handle the hard parts—so you can focus on building.

We also provide conceptual drawings to help you pitch, plan, and present your ideas more clearly. It’s our way of making your process easier and your projects stand out.

Deliver a Poolside Experience Your Client Will Love

Choosing the right patio cover isn’t just about solving a shade problem—it’s about helping your client fall in love with their backyard. When you choose a custom-built solution that fits their lifestyle, complements their home, and adds long-term value, you're not just finishing a project—you're building your reputation.

Explore more inspiration in our post on Designing the Perfect Patio Cover, and partner with a team that makes you look good on every job.

📞 Let’s Build Something Great Together

Partner with Cedar Shade Co for high-quality, custom-built patio covers crafted for contractor success.

📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: (817) 874-4076
🌐 Website: www.cedarshadeco.com

Let’s turn your client’s vision into a beautifully shaded reality.