Want more design inspiration?

For seasonal coverage, trailing vines and climbing plants are perfect for wrapping up the sides and top.

A draped shade can serve the same purpose.

Deck covered by a vinyl pergola

The Spruce / Jason Donnelly

These also tend to be more eco-friendly but still offer shelter when you’re spending time outside.

These are perfect for dwellers seeking an earthier or tropical aesthetic.

It gives this area a room-like feel without fully blocking out the sun or fresh air.

Corrugated plastic and wood roof over deck

@kirsten.diane/ Instagram

In this case, an affordable option is to install weather-resistant curtains.

Not only is this a functional solution, but it looks ethereal too.

Greenery Roof

Lucy Gleeson Interiors

Seeking deck coverage that’s more earth-friendly and cost-efficient?

rooftop deck

Designed by Jess Bunge forEmily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Consider something made of plants.

Bushier shrubs and vines are excellent materials for creating a “roof” over top of a deck.

Just add a pergola or wooden structure and get growing.

Shaded patio deck with canvas awning

@luckyplot13/ Instagram

Modern Gazebo

Covering large decks can be expensive or decks with unusual designs.

In some instances, a separate structure can be more cost-effective.

A modern gazebo can easily become an outdoor “living room” that’s sheltered and comfortable.

Black pergola over outdoor seating

@ladylandscape/ Instagram

This style gives you the biggest bang for your buck long-term.

A fabric awning can straddle the line perfectly.

These can be just as effective as their constructed counterparts but won’t cost as much.

Sail draped over deck pool area

@herzenstimme/ Instagram

The fabrics come in various colors and textures, making it easy to customize.

It’s cost-effective, works with a wide range of design styles, and offers excellent coverage.

It’s still possible to use fabric awnings and sails.

Black conical tent on platform in backyard

@ann.living/ Instagram

These will be more cost effective than a renovation that involves building a new roof or covered area.

Wood decks are the least expensive.

Other popular materials include composite planks and concrete or stone pavers.

wood and cement awning

Maite Granda

Wooden planks tend to be the most affordable and can be purchased pressure treated in multiple finishes and colors.

A fully covered or enclosed deck will cost more than one with a pergola or half roof.

On the lower end it can cost around $2,000 and go up from there.

Thatched roof over a pergola

Afro Bohemian Living

Partially covered deck area with skylight

Maite Granda

patio cover ideas

Design byMindy Gayer/ Photo by Vanessa Lentine

A seating area next to a large gazebo

Michelle Berwick Design

A covered patio framed with adjustable white curtains

Rikki Snyder

Deck with pergola covered in lush greenery

Lucy Gleeson Interiors

A gazebo with a TV and seating area

@ladylandscape/ Instagram

fabric deck awning

Brooklinteriors

covered deck

Design byEmily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Black covered deck area with glass panels

@deckremodelers/ Instagram

outdoor space with fabric awning

Calimia Home

Orange fabric gazebo over dining table

Fotosearch / Getty Images

Wooden extension over patio

Arbor & Co.

Bench patio area with canvas sails

Turquoise & Tobacco