Patio covers provide much-needed shade during the hot days under the Arizona sun. But, having an insulated aluminum patio roof for even better protection is generally smart. You may learn how to insulate an aluminum patio roof easily. Below, we will cover the steps for patio roof insulation and its benefits.
Should You Insulate a Patio Roof?
Whether you have an aluminum or alumawood patio roof, also referred to as pergolas, you should consider insulating it. You may be under the wrong impression that insulation may trap heated or cooled air below, but insulation works both ways.
During the hot summer days, an insulated patio roof will keep the heat away from your pergolas. In contrast, during the colder days, insulation works the other way and keeps your patio comfortable from the biting chill.
Moreover, insulating your patio roof will elevate its overall appearance. If you are looking for the best pergola material for Arizona, feel free to contact us.
Source: royalcovers.com
How to Insulate an Aluminum Patio Roof
There are several steps to insulate your aluminum patio roof.
- Clean underneath the patio roof
- Patch up any gaps and holes
- Attach fiberglass batts
- Install foam insulation
- Seal edges
- Finish with paint.
Clean underneath the patio roof
You should start the insulation process by cleaning the underneath of your patio roof. You can use a store-bought aluminum cleaner or a light acid cleaner to scrub the patio roof clean.
Instead of buying a cleaner, you may also make a chlorine solution yourself. In order to make your cleaning solution, add one tablespoon of chlorine bleach to one gallon of water. Mix the solution and use it to clean your patio roof.
Patch up any gaps and holes
Check your patio roof for any holes that may appear from the nails in the plywood support beams. If there are any gaps or holes, you should patch them up before insulating the patio roof.
One option you have is to use sheet metal to cover the area with gaps, caulk the sheet metal, and press the shingles down. Or use roofing cement and fill in the gaps and holes with a putty knife.
By patching up the gaps and holes in your patio roof, you ensure that it remains leak-free.
Attach fiberglass batts
After you are done patching up the roof, you should attach fiberglass batts. In order to connect the fiberglass batts, use insulation adhesive or duct tape. Just ensure that the glasses are not too close to each other, or the insulation capacity may be reduced.
Instead, add the fiberglass batts with approximately ½ inch or ¾ of an inch of space between one another.
Install foam insulation
Once you attach the fiberglass batts, it is time to install the foam insulation. You should cover the entire underneath of your patio panel with the foam. Depending on the size of your patio roof, you may need to cut the foam to fit.
You should use galvanized steel nails or staples to hold the foam insulation in place. It is best to use galvanized steel as they are rust-resistant.
Seal edges
After you finish installing the foam insulation, seal its edges. Use duct tape and place it over the entire area to ensure you seal them properly, or use plaster to fill up the spaces.
Finish with paint
After you finish with the insulation process, you may add a coat of paint. The paint will help cover the insulating foam and duct tape you have used. Once you are done, you will have an insulated aluminum patio roof.
Advantages of Insulating Your Aluminum Patio Roof
High-end look
It is indisputable that an insulated patio roof looks better and sturdier than an uninsulated one. If you want a professional to handle your insulation, then we can help you by using aluminum-clad foam panels.
Aluminum-clad panels range between 3-6 inches in thickness.
Source: royalcovers.com
Waterproof
Because insulated roofing panels are connected and sealed, they prevent leakage. For example, our alumawood patio pergolas drains water through the gutter system. So, when it rains, you will not have to worry about water build-up causing electrical issues or other damage.
UV protection
Unlike an uninsulated patio roof, an insulated one provides better heat and UV-radiation protection. You can sit outside and connect with nature without worrying about the sun’s harmful rays. Instead, you will be comfortable under the cool shade of your patio cover.
Hide cables and wires
Insulation is also a great way to hide any electrical wires and cables that may otherwise be an eyesore. This way, your patio pergola will look even better without any imperfections. So, contact us today and get an estimate on insulated patio cover prices.
Conclusion
Those are the steps you need to know how to insulate an aluminum patio roof. Insulate yours and experience the benefits of better heat protection while your outdoor space looks even better.