me brightness more closely.
How to choose between solid, lattice, or a combination
Each style has a purpose. The best choice depends on your climate, how you use the space, and how much daylight you want to preserve.
- Solid or insulated cover: maximum rain and sun block, best for dining sets, grills, and outdoor kitchens. Needs light management.
- Lattice cover: 40 to 90 percent shade, keeps strong daylight and airflow, no rain protection.
- Combination system: solid zone near the house for doors and furniture, lattice or translucent zone at the edge for light and breeze.
Patio Cover Designs by S creates all three, so you can tailor your solid patio cover light levels and function in one coordinated build.
Real-world examples that predict brightness
Shaded backyard with tall trees and a north exposure
This setup is at high risk of feeling dim. Use an insulated cover with two to four skylights, a white ceiling, and a 24 inch lattice band at the front. Add warm LED downlights on dimmers.
Open yard with a south exposure and a light colored home
This space can handle a full solid roof with a light finish. Consider a fan and a few recessed lights for evening use. Skylights are a nice-to-have here, not a must.
West facing patio that bakes at sunset
An insulated roof controls heat and glare. Add a higher attachment line and skylights positioned toward the east side to keep morning light. Side shades or a lattice return can help with late-day low-angle sun.
About Patio Cover Designs by S
Patio Cover Designs by S is a family-owned outdoor living contractor with more than 20 years of hands-on experience. Founded in 2016 by Crystal and Jason, the company serves homeowners in Wisconsin and New Mexico with personable, family-style service and straightforward estimates during weekday hours. Materials are premium aluminum chosen for durability and low upkeep. That means no painting, cracking, warping, or splitting. Systems are engineered to meet or exceed most building codes and backed by a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty.
The team designs and installs Solid or Flat Pan covers, Insulated covers with optional integrated electrical for fans and lighting, Open Lattice systems that provide 40 to 90 percent shade, and Combination systems that mix these styles. They also build 3 and 4 season rooms, custom carports, privacy panels and walls, awnings, cantilever covers, and even BBQ or pool equipment covers. Decking services include wood or low-maintenance composite options, custom railings, and aluminum framing for fully maintenance-free builds.
If you want help predicting and improving solid patio cover light, their free design consultation is a great starting point. They will look at your yard orientation, window layout, and shade goals, then suggest mockups and light-boosting solutions.
Step-by-step: plan the right brightness level
- Map the sun. Note morning, midday, and late-day sun angles for one week.
- Mock up the roof with tarps or plastic at the planned height.
- Measure lux levels with a phone app and take comparison photos.
- Decide on roof type. Solid, insulated, or a combination based on your tests.
- Select light finishes. Go with a bright ceiling and consider reflective patio surfaces.
- Add daylight features. Skylights, translucent inlays, or a lattice border.
- Plan electrical. Recessed LEDs, a fan, and dimmers. Use integrated electrical on insulated panels for a clean look.
- Confirm structure and code. Work with a contractor who engineers the system correctly.
- Build and fine-tune. After installation, adjust lighting levels and add landscape lights to complete the mood.
Frequently asked questions
How many skylights do I need
For a typical 12 by 16 foot solid roof, two to four skylights placed over seating or dining areas often provide a well-balanced daylight boost. Placement matters more than raw quantity. Put them where you spend time.
Will a white ceiling glare
Not usually. A white or almond ceiling reflects light evenly. Use matte or low-sheen finishes if you are concerned about glare. Recessed lights with diffusers also reduce bright spots at night.
Are insulated panels worth it
Yes if you want better thermal comfort and a finished ceiling with integrated electrical. They cost more than flat pan covers but improve comfort, reduce rain noise, and make lighting clean and simple.
What if I still want open sky and stargazing
Consider a combination design. Keep a solid zone for the door and main seating, then add an open lattice or pergola extension at the yard side. You get rain protection where you need it and open-sky views beyond.
When a solid patio cover is the right call
Choose a solid or insulated cover if you want full-time rain shelter, all-day shade, a clean ceiling for fans and lights, and better control of west sun. The key is to plan for solid patio cover light from the start. With the right height, color, skylights, and lighting plan, you can have deep shade without a cave-like feel.
How Patio Cover Designs by S helps you avoid darkness
During a free consultation, Patio Cover Designs by S will walk your site, map sun angles, and discuss how you use the space. They often bring sample finishes and talk through skylight layouts, lattice combinations, and integrated lighting. Because they install solid, insulated, lattice, and hybrid systems, their advice is not limited to one product. The result is a patio that fits your light preference and your budget, all backed by a Full Lifetime Warranty.
Your next steps
Do the mockup test this weekend. Measure light levels, take photos, and write down what feels good in the morning, midday, and late afternoon. If the space looks dim, choose one or two daylight upgrades such as skylights or a lattice edge. Then talk to Patio Cover Designs by S about a detailed plan. With thoughtful design, you get the protection you want and the bright, comfortable patio you will use every day.
Quick checklist for solid patio cover light
- Know your orientation: north, south, east, or west
- Mock up the roof at the real height and depth
- Measure lux at three times of day
- Choose light finishes and reflective surfaces
- Add skylights or translucent inlays where you sit
- Consider a combination system for balance
- Plan integrated lighting with dimmers
- Work with an experienced aluminum specialist
A solid patio cover should feel like an outdoor room, not a cave. With a little testing, smart design moves, and the right partner, you can have steady daylight, cool shade, and year-round comfort. Patio Cover Designs by S is ready to help you dial in the perfect balance for your home.
