“If I host something, even if it’s just dinner at my house, I like the event to move. So that means cocktails in the family room, and then moving outside and having appetizers on the patio, and then moving to dinner at the dining table.”– Jeremiah Brent

Having a patio in your backyard is a great way to add more living space to your property while also enjoying the great outdoors. However, not all of us want to actually be outside while enjoying nature. Even if you do enjoy being outside, there are times when you simply can’t.

Enclosing your patio lets you enjoy this space no matter what time of day, time of year, or the weather conditions. The amount of protection you enjoy will depend on the type of enclosure you use.

You also need to consider the style of your home, the aesthetics offered by each enclosure type, and your budget. These enclosed patio ideas will help you start planning your next home improvement project, building an enclosure for your patio.

1. Covered Enclosed Patio Ideas

The easiest way to give your patio more protection and structure is to build a cover over it. Simple covers are affordable and easy to construct. A shade sail, retractable awning, or pergola are all long term solutions that aren’t permanently installed as a piece of the home. They can give you overhead protection and shade on your patio.

Source: @a_moms_perspective via Instagram

Source: @infinitehome via Instagram

Source: @shuttersshade via Instagram

Source: @wrightgardnerarchitect via Instagram

For more protection and to make your patio feel more like a room, build a patio roof. This could be an extension of the original roof on your home. This is the most expensive option but will create a seamless look on the exterior of your home.

A more affordable option is to cover your outdoor space with a metal roof. These are just as protective and permanent but are easier to install. They attach to the side of your house and slant downward as they extend out.