When considering an Alumawood patio cover installation, you’re likely worried about making costly mistakes that could lead to structural failure, water damage, or permit violations. We understand these concerns – after 45 years serving Arizona homeowners, we’ve seen how improper installation can turn a beautiful outdoor living space into an expensive headache. This comprehensive guide reveals the most critical installation mistakes and provides expert solutions to ensure your patio cover stands strong for decades.

Common installation mistakes with Alumawood patio covers include improper site preparation with inadequate soil compaction, inaccurate measurements that ignore thermal expansion, skipping building permits, poor waterproofing at wall connections, incorrect attachment to home structures, and using non-weather-rated fasteners.

TL;DR Summary

Site Preparation: Soil must be compacted to 90% density with footings minimum 12 inches deep to prevent settling and structural failure
• Measurement Accuracy: Poor measurements cause alignment issues; professionals verify multiple times and account for aluminum’s thermal expansion rate
• Manufacturer Compliance: Following specifications maintains 25 PSF load rating and warranty coverage; DIY deviations often void protection
• Waterproofing: Stucco walls require aluminum flashing per code; inadequate sealing causes water intrusion and wood rot
• Home Attachment: Must anchor to structural beams, not siding – this is the most common failure point
• Fastener Selection: Over-tightening weakens connections; under-tightening allows movement; proper torque ensures structural integrity
• Permits and Codes: Skipping permits leads to fines, insurance denial, and removal orders; most areas require permits for attached structures
• Maintenance Planning: Twice-yearly cleaning and seasonal inspections catch issues early, extending lifespan to 20+ years

Quick Tip: Before any excavation, always call 811 to locate underground utilities – hitting a gas line or electrical cable can be deadly and is completely preventable with this free service.

With these critical factors in mind, let’s examine each potential failure point in detail, starting with the foundation of any successful installation: proper site preparation.

Table of Contents

Why Is Proper Site Preparation Essential for Alumawood Patio Cover Installation?

Proper site preparation is essential for Alumawood patio cover installation because it prevents structural failure and ensures compliance with building codes. Site preparation creates the stable foundation necessary to support the patio cover’s 25 PSF load capacity over its 15-20+ year lifespan.

The foundation requirements include specific soil and footing specifications that vary by region and structure size:

Component	Requirement	Code	Purpose
Soil Compaction	90% maximum relative density	Industry Standard	Prevents settling and structural instability
Footing Depth	Minimum 12 inches below undisturbed ground	International Residential Code	Provides adequate bearing capacity
Phoenix Soil Capacity	1,500 psf presumptive bearing	Local Code	Ensures proper load distribution
Slab-on-Grade	Maximum 750 pounds per column	IRC	Prevents foundation overload
Regional Footing Depth	18-36 inches for larger structures	Regional Variations	Accommodates local soil conditions
Concrete Slab Thickness	3.5-4 inches for smaller installations	Zero frost depth areas	Provides adequate structural support

Improper soil compaction ranks as a primary cause of patio sinking and structural stress. Failure to clear debris and vegetation before excavation compromises foundation stability by creating voids and inconsistent bearing surfaces.

The following sections detail specific site preparation problems and prevention methods to ensure a lasting installation.

What Can Go Wrong If the Ground Is Uneven or Poorly Compacted?

Ground that is uneven or poorly compacted causes multiple structural problems that compromise the entire patio cover system. Expansive soil beneath patios creates structural stress leading to cracking and failure of the foundation and attached components.

Poor drainage from uneven ground causes instability and sinking of the entire structure. When the ground lacks proper slope, water pools around foundation elements and undermines the soil’s bearing capacity. This water pooling creates structural stress on support posts and accelerates deterioration.

Uncompacted soil leads to differential settlement causing misalignment of structural components. As different areas of the foundation settle at varying rates, the frame becomes twisted and stressed. This misalignment prevents proper panel installation and creates gaps that allow water intrusion.

Crooked beams or off-center posts result when the ground is not level during initial installation. These alignment issues prevent proper panel alignment and create permanent structural weaknesses that worsen over time.

How Should You Check for Underground Utilities Before Installing?

Underground utilities must be located before any excavation to prevent dangerous accidents and costly repairs. Contact your local 811 service at least 48-72 hours before digging to have utilities marked by professionals.

Common underground utilities include electrical lines, gas pipes, water mains, sewer lines, telecommunications cables, and irrigation systems. Striking these utilities can cause service outages, expensive repairs, personal injury, or even death in the case of gas or electrical lines.

Professional utility locating services use specialized equipment to identify the exact location and depth of buried utilities. Mark these locations clearly with spray paint or flags before beginning any excavation work.

Verify that all utilities have been marked by checking for the presence of paint marks or flags in your work area. If any utilities run through your planned installation area, you may need to modify your design or use alternative installation methods that avoid excavation in those zones.

This thorough site preparation ensures your Alumawood patio cover installation proceeds safely and meets all structural requirements for long-term performance.

How Do Inaccurate Measurements Lead to Alumawood Patio Cover Problems?

Inaccurate measurements create cascading structural problems that compromise the entire patio cover system. Poor leveling and measurement ranks as one of the top 5 installation mistakes according to industry experts. Crooked beams or off-center posts from measurement errors prevent proper panel alignment, while pre-cut DIY kit pieces often don’t fit properly due to inaccurate site measurements.

Professional installers verify measurements multiple times before cutting or drilling to avoid costly errors. They use chalk lines, string guides, and levels to map layout before digging. Critical factors include accounting for aluminum’s thermal expansion rate of 0.0000126 inches per inch per degree Fahrenheit in initial measurements. Symmetry and proper alignment of all components depends on accurate initial measurements. The following subsections detail the specific consequences of measurement errors and proper drainage considerations.

What Are the Consequences of Incorrect Post Placement or Sizing?

The consequences of incorrect post placement or sizing include structural weakness and potential collapse from improper load distribution. Specific span requirements must be followed based on beam sizes:

4×6 beams support only 6-foot maximum span between posts
4×8 beams support 10-foot maximum span between posts
4×10 beams support 12-foot maximum span between posts
Maximum span between posts is 10 feet regardless of beam size

Exceeding these spans causes structural weakness and inadequate load distribution. Rafter spacing typically requires 24″ on center, with variations needing engineering approval for 16″, 12″, or 8″ spacing. Improper post spacing leads to inadequate load distribution and potential collapse of the entire cover system.

Why Is It Important to Account for Slope and Drainage in Measurements?

It is important to account for slope and drainage in measurements because insufficient slope causes water pooling and structural stress on the cover system. Minimum slope requirement is 1/4 inch per foot per Alumawood engineering specifications, though professional installers recommend 3/8 to 1/2 inch per foot for better drainage.

Water accumulation creates serious structural risks. Blocked roof drains with no secondary drain backup was a documented cause of Indianapolis restaurant patio collapse. In 2019, a Kennewick patio collapsed when melting snow created a water pool that refroze on a flat roof. Gutters and downspouts must be sized for local storm intensity to handle runoff, with downspouts discharging away from foundation to prevent undermining. Proper slope calculation during initial measurements prevents these costly and dangerous water-related failures.

What Issues Arise from Failing to Follow Manufacturer Instructions During Installation?

Failing to follow manufacturer instructions during installation creates multiple serious problems that compromise both safety and warranty coverage. Skipping permits and inspections is the #1 installation mistake leading to fines, penalties, or removal orders. Professional installations typically last 15-20+ years versus 5-10 years for DIY installations that ignore specifications.

Alumawood products are rated for 25 PSF capacity and must be installed to maintain this specification. The material grade must be 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum with ultimate tensile strength of 310 MPa. DIY kits use thin metal and pre-cut pieces that don’t fit properly, leading to early failure. Warranty coverage requires following manufacturer specifications; the Limited Lifetime Material Warranty is transferable for 10 years only when properly installed.

The maximum height limit is 12 feet for one-story structures per International Building Code. This section explores the specific guidelines most frequently overlooked and the critical impact of incorrect fastener use on structural integrity.

What Specific Guidelines Are Frequently Overlooked?

The specific guidelines most frequently overlooked include foundation, structural load, and drainage requirements that are essential for safe installation. There are minimum 4″ concrete thickness requirements for foundations and wind load minimums of 110 mph standard, with Phoenix requiring 115 mph rating.

Key overlooked specifications include:

Minimum live load of 10 PSF vertical per 2021 IBC Appendix I
Column load limit of maximum 750 pounds per column on slab-on-grade
Thermal expansion allowances causing bolt loosening, panel lifting, and water seepage when ignored
Corrosion-resistant aluminum flashing required by code for stucco walls

Primary and secondary drain systems are required to prevent water accumulation, yet installers frequently skip these critical safety features that prevent structural failure.

How Does Incorrect Fastener Use Affect Alumawood Patio Covers?

Incorrect fastener use affects Alumawood patio covers by creating the most common attachment failure point that compromises structural integrity. Fastener specifications require 4″ x 1/4″ hex-head lag screws at each stud or Simpson A34 anchors with minimum 4″ penetration into concrete.

All fasteners must be weather-rated and corrosion-resistant (hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel). The standard specification calls for 3/8″-7 x 2″ lag bolts in 18-8 stainless steel. Using screws that are too short or not weather-rated is a common attachment failure point.

Component	Specification Type	Required Value	Structural Impact
DIY Kit Brackets	Design Type	Basic gravity-reliant	Fail under uplift pressure
Standard Fasteners	Minimum Penetration	4 inches into concrete	Prevents anchor pullout
Weather Rating	Corrosion Resistance	Hot-dipped galvanized / stainless	Prevents fastener degradation
Fastener Spacing	Code Compliance	Per manufacturer specs	Maintains lateral strength

Missing bolts are a common inspection failure that compromises structural integrity. Improper fastener spacing violates code standards and reduces lateral strength, while DIY kits use basic brackets relying on gravity that fail under uplift pressure with screws shearing off.

How Can Improper Sealing and Waterproofing Cause Long-Term Damage?

Improper sealing and waterproofing cause long-term damage by allowing water intrusion that leads to wood rot, structural deterioration, and complete system failure. Inadequate flashing ranks as one of the top 5 installation mistakes, with professional case studies showing a $1,200 DIY kit becoming a $4,000+ repair after storms exposed weak waterproofing points. A six-figure settlement resulted from an Indianapolis restaurant patio collapse due to water accumulation issues.

Stucco walls require corrosion-resistant aluminum flashing per code requirements. Caulk alone proves insufficient because water soaks into porous stucco and moves down walls along fasteners when not properly sealed. Modern installations use liquid-applied elastomeric membranes that provide seamless protection, with UV-stable waterproofing systems required for outdoor exposure applications. The next sections examine specific sealant application risks and identify the most vulnerable leak points in Alumawood systems.

What Are the Risks If Sealant Is Missed or Applied Incorrectly?

Missed or incorrectly applied sealant creates multiple structural and financial risks. Water intrusion leads to wood rot in structural framing members, while moisture trapping behind siding accelerates deterioration of house structures. Pest intrusion increases when water damage creates entry points, and framing deterioration increases collapse risk over time.

Financial consequences include insurance companies refusing to cover water damage from improper installation. Repair costs average $1,599 with a range of $726-$2,485 for water damage issues. These risks compound over time, making early proper sealing critical for long-term structural integrity.

Which Areas of Alumawood Patio Covers Are Most Vulnerable to Leaks?

The most vulnerable leak areas require specific attention during installation and maintenance. The fascia board where the enclosure meets the house serves as the primary leak location. Stucco wall connections prove problematic when water moves along fasteners without proper flashing protection.

Critical vulnerability points include:

Ledger board attachment points without proper flashing
Areas with insufficient slope (less than 1/4″ per foot) that allow water pooling
Connection points between roof and masonry walls when loads exceed building code requirements
Downspout connections when not properly sealed
Blocked or clogged gutters that cause overflow at seams

These areas demand professional-grade waterproofing systems and regular maintenance inspection to prevent costly long-term damage and ensure structural integrity throughout the system’s lifespan.

Why Is Accurate Attachment to the Home or Existing Structures Critical?

Accurate attachment to the home or existing structures is critical because improper attachment is the most common failure point causing water intrusion and wood rot. Professional installations must connect to solid structural wood beams rather than exterior siding to ensure structural integrity and prevent catastrophic failure.

Anchoring into siding instead of structural beams represents a documented attachment failure that compromises the entire patio cover system. The connection of the roof to masonry walls must carry building code loads or face structural failure within years of installation. According to industry documentation, structural collapse within 5 years occurs in cases of improper DIY attachment methods.

Professional builders use reinforced beams and engineered attachment methods to distribute loads properly across the home’s structure. The ledger board must be properly spaced off the house structure with appropriate flashing to prevent moisture intrusion and maintain structural separation. This section examines the consequences of improper anchoring and techniques for preventing damage during attachment.

What Happens If Patio Covers Are Not Properly Anchored?

Patio covers that are not properly anchored experience lateral movement that is not resisted, leading to structural instability. Without proper connectors, uplift forces cause complete structural failure during wind events.

Aluminum pan patio covers fail at approximately 70 mph without reinforced beam attachments, according to engineering specifications. Post-to-pier connectors are essential for moisture separation and structural integrity throughout the system. Direct soil or concrete contact causes accelerated rot in wood components when proper elevation and drainage are not maintained.

Insurance companies may deny claims for storm damage on improperly anchored structures, leaving homeowners responsible for complete replacement costs and potential liability for damage to neighboring properties.

How Do You Prevent Damage to Stucco, Brick, or Siding During Attachment?

You prevent damage to stucco, brick, or siding during attachment by using corrosion-resistant aluminum flashing installed in shingle-fashion on stucco walls. Install a gutter system on the house if none is present to manage runoff and prevent water intrusion.

Surface Type	Required Protection	Installation Method	Key Consideration
Stucco	Aluminum flashing	Shingle-fashion overlap	Corrosion-resistant materials
Brick	Proper drilling technique	Specialized masonry bits	Prevent cracking
Siding	Proper spacing	Moisture barrier	Prevent trapping

Proper spacing prevents moisture trapping behind siding that accelerates deterioration. Flashing must keep water out of wall cavities to prevent interior damage and structural compromise. Corrosion-resistant fasteners are required to prevent rust staining on surfaces and maintain long-term attachment strength. Metal lath-reinforced deck systems are recommended for high-traffic areas to distribute loads and prevent surface damage.

This attachment precision directly impacts the waterproofing and sealing requirements that protect both the patio cover and the home structure from water damage.

What Are the Dangers of Over-Tightening or Under-Tightening Fasteners?

The dangers of over-tightening or under-tightening fasteners include weakened structural connections, compromised stability, and premature failure of aluminum patio cover systems. Over-tightening bolts creates stress concentrations that weaken attachment points, while under-tightened fasteners allow excessive movement that compromises structural integrity.

Aluminum’s thermal expansion rate of 0.0000126 inches per inch per degree Fahrenheit requires precise fastener tension to accommodate seasonal movement. When fasteners are too tight, thermal expansion creates binding stress that can crack materials or shear bolts. Conversely, loose fasteners allow lateral movement that progressively weakens connections over time.

DIY installation kits commonly experience bracket tension loss within years due to improper tightening techniques. Professional installations account for thermal expansion cycles, ensuring fasteners maintain proper tension while allowing necessary movement. This section explores how improper fastening impacts structural integrity and tools for correct installation.

How Can Improper Fastening Impact Structural Integrity?

Improper fastening compromises structural stability when fasteners fail to meet building code standards. Lateral strength reduces significantly without proper structural connectors, while load-bearing capacity depends entirely on correct fastener installation throughout the structure.

Wind resistance decreases substantially with improper fastening techniques, creating dangerous conditions during storms. Post base anchors must be installed per manufacturer specifications to achieve rated loads, with any deviation reducing the system’s ability to handle environmental stresses.

Consistent fastener spacing remains critical for proper load distribution across the structure. Uneven spacing creates stress concentrations that can lead to progressive failure, particularly under wind or snow loads.

What Tools Help Ensure Fasteners Are Tightened Correctly?

Torque wrenches ensure consistent and proper tightening to manufacturer specifications, eliminating guesswork in fastener installation. Level verification tools confirm proper alignment during fastening, preventing binding that occurs when components are forced into misaligned positions.

Calibrated drilling equipment prevents over-penetration that damages structural materials and compromises connection strength. Professional installers use these tools to maintain the precise tolerances required for aluminum patio cover systems.

Royal Covers uses professional-grade torque specifications and verification tools to ensure every fastener meets structural requirements, contributing to their 15-20+ year installation lifespan compared to 5-10 years for improperly fastened DIY installations.

How Can Failing to Consider Local Building Codes and Permits Lead to Installation Mistakes?

Failing to consider local building codes and permits creates the most costly installation mistake, leading to fines, removal orders, and insurance complications. Skipping permits ranks as the #1 installation error that transforms straightforward projects into expensive legal problems.

Permit requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction. Phoenix requires permits for all attached structures and freestanding covers over 200 square feet. San Diego exempts structures under 300 square feet when accessory to single-family or duplex homes. Los Angeles County charges a base permit fee of $37.33 plus inspection fees. Dallas exempts detached covers under 200 square feet behind front yard setbacks, while Houston generally requires permits for all patio covers regardless of size.

Insurance companies may refuse coverage for damages on unpermitted structures, creating financial liability for homeowners. Legal liability exists if injury occurs on an unpermitted structure, potentially resulting in significant compensation claims.

The following sections detail specific permit requirements and the serious consequences of code violations that affect both safety and financial protection.

What Permits or Inspections Might Be Required for Alumawood Patio Covers?

Building permits are required for structural installation in most jurisdictions to verify compliance with load-bearing specifications. Electrical permits become necessary when adding lighting or electrical components to the patio cover system. Plumbing permits apply when incorporating water features or drainage systems into the design.

Engineering documentation is required for structures exceeding standard specifications or unusual configurations. Final inspection verifies code compliance before the structure can be legally used. Phoenix requires 115 mph wind load rating verification for all patio installations. Footing inspection must occur before concrete pour in many areas to ensure proper depth and reinforcement.

Additional specialty permits may apply depending on local requirements and project complexity, making early consultation with local building departments essential.

How Do Code Violations Affect Insurance and Safety?

Insurance companies may deny claims for storm damage on unpermitted structures, leaving homeowners financially responsible for repairs. Potential policy cancellation can occur upon discovery of unpermitted work during routine inspections. Rate increases often affect homeowners with unpermitted improvements, reflecting increased risk assessment by insurers.

Legal liability increases significantly when injury occurs on structures not meeting code requirements. Worker’s compensation claims become complicated by code violations, potentially affecting coverage and rates. Property sale complications arise when unpermitted work is discovered during buyer inspection, often requiring costly remediation before closing.

The most severe consequence involves potential requirements to remove or rebuild non-compliant structures, transforming a permit fee of under $100 into thousands in demolition and reconstruction costs. These violations create lasting financial and legal complications that far exceed initial permit costs.

What Role Does Routine Maintenance Play in Preventing Installation-Related Issues?

Routine maintenance plays a critical preventative role by catching installation problems before they escalate into structural failures or expensive repairs. Regular upkeep allows homeowners to identify loose fasteners, drainage issues, and seal deterioration early when corrections are simple and cost-effective.

Professional maintenance schedules recommend minimum twice-yearly cleaning to prevent debris accumulation that can compromise structural integrity. Spring and fall cleaning with a garden hose at gentle pressure maintains the aluminum finish while allowing inspection of all connection points. Regular inspections catch wear or damage before structural compromise occurs, while prompt repairs prevent long-term damage from small issues that compound over time.

Essential maintenance tasks focus on water management and structural connections. Clear debris from gutters and downspouts seasonally to prevent water backup that can cause overflow damage at seams. Check for loose fasteners to prevent progressive structural weakening, as thermal expansion and contraction naturally affects bolt tension. Verify proper drainage and slope maintenance to prevent water accumulation that creates structural stress on support posts.

The following maintenance schedule optimizes prevention of installation-related failures and ensures continued structural integrity as the system ages.

How Can Early Maintenance Catch or Prevent Common Installation Mistakes?

Early maintenance catches installation mistakes by identifying structural problems before they cause system-wide failures or safety hazards. Loose fasteners identified during routine inspections prevent complete connection failure that could lead to partial collapse under wind or snow loads.

Water pooling detection allows slope correction before structural damage occurs to support posts or foundation elements. A 2019 study on patio collapse incidents found that inadequate drainage was present in 78% of structural failures, with most preventable through early detection and correction of slope deficiencies.

Loose fasteners identified early prevent complete connection failure
Water pooling detection allows slope correction before structural damage
Clogged gutter identification prevents overflow damage at seams
Early crack detection in foundations prevents major structural issues
Missing or damaged flashing identification prevents water intrusion
Thermal movement stress identified through regular inspection prevents panel lifting
Corrosion detection on fasteners allows replacement before structural failure

Regular inspection protocols catch installation errors that may not manifest problems immediately but worsen over time. Thermal movement stress identified through systematic inspection prevents the bolt loosening and panel lifting that occurs when expansion allowances were inadequately planned during installation.

Which Maintenance Tasks Are Most Important for Alumawood Patio Covers?

The most important maintenance tasks for Alumawood patio covers focus on drainage systems, structural connections, and protective finishes that preserve the installation’s integrity over its 15-20+ year expected lifespan.

Seasonal gutter and downspout cleaning maintains proper drainage and prevents the water backup that caused documented structural failures in Indianapolis and Kennewick installations. Annual fastener inspection and tightening addresses the natural loosening that occurs as aluminum expands and contracts at 0.0000126 inches per inch per degree Fahrenheit through seasonal temperature cycles.

Priority Maintenance Schedule:

Task	Frequency	Purpose	Critical Period
Gutter cleaning	Seasonal	Drainage maintenance	Before monsoons/winter
Fastener inspection	Annual	Structural integrity	Spring thermal expansion
Surface cleaning	Biannual	Finish protection	Spring and fall
Drainage verification	After storms	Slope confirmation	Heavy rain events
Flashing inspection	Biannual	Water intrusion prevention	Seasonal transitions

Biannual cleaning with mild soap or a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water removes stains while preserving the aluminum finish. Drainage slope verification after heavy rain events confirms that the minimum 1/4 inch per foot slope remains adequate for water management.

Post base inspection for moisture damage or movement catches foundation settling that could compromise the entire structure’s stability and load distribution.

How Should You Approach Alumawood Patio Cover Installation to Ensure a Lasting Result?

Alumawood patio cover installation requires professional expertise and strict adherence to manufacturer specifications to achieve lasting results. Professional installations deliver 15-20+ year lifespans versus 5-10 years for DIY attempts due to superior materials, engineering, and installation techniques.

Critical Installation Requirements:

Use reinforced beams, thicker materials, and engineered attachment methods
Follow manufacturer specifications exactly to maintain 25 PSF load rating
Ensure minimum 1/4″ per foot slope; professionals recommend 3/8-1/2″ per foot
Install both primary and secondary drainage systems
Use only corrosion-resistant, weather-rated fasteners
Verify all local code requirements and obtain necessary permits before starting

Professional installations cost an average of $8,500 but prevent the $4,000+ repair costs commonly associated with DIY installation failures. The following subsections detail how professional services address common installation mistakes and provide long-term value.

Can Royal Covers Help With Avoiding Common Alumawood Patio Cover Installation Mistakes?

Royal Covers eliminates common installation mistakes through comprehensive professional services and 45+ years of Phoenix market expertise. Founded in 1979, the company maintains BBB accreditation since December 1, 1979, with a 5-star average rating across 2,000+ customer reviews.

Professional Installation Advantages:

Full-service approach handles all engineering, permit, and installation requirements
Professional team with specialized training in Arizona building codes
Custom design approach ensures proper measurements and specifications for each project
2-year workmanship warranty plus limited lifetime manufacturer warranties

Royal Covers headquarters at 948 E. Impala Ave, Mesa, AZ provides local expertise for Arizona’s unique building requirements and climate considerations. Contact (480) 926-2300 for professional consultation and installation services.

What Are the Key Takeaways About Alumawood Patio Cover Installation Mistakes and Prevention?

The key takeaways for preventing Alumawood patio cover installation mistakes center on professional installation, code compliance, and proper maintenance practices. Each prevention strategy directly addresses documented failure points that compromise structural integrity and longevity.

Essential Prevention Strategies:

Proper site preparation with 90% soil compaction and correct footing depth prevents foundation failures
Accurate measurements accounting for thermal expansion prevent alignment and structural issues
Following manufacturer specifications maintains warranty coverage and ensures 15-20+ year lifespan
Proper waterproofing with aluminum flashing on stucco walls prevents costly water damage
Correct attachment to structural members, not siding, prevents most common failure point
Obtaining permits avoids fines, insurance issues, and legal liability
Regular maintenance catches small issues before they become major structural problems

Professional installation provides the expertise, materials, and warranty protection necessary to avoid the common mistakes that plague DIY installations and compromise both safety and investment value.

Common Installation Mistakes with Alumawood Patio Covers (and How to Avoid Them)