Building materials for the patio

Press, 18 November 1981, Page 34

Building materials for the patio

Climate will dictate the location of the patio. Of all the weather’s effects, wind has the greatest influence on the patio siting. Knowledge of wind directions and strength is also necessary to decide whether additional screens are needed. If your site is windy most of the time, the open patio is not for you, unless it is ■ located in such a way that it is protected from the house. A screened garden room with toughened glass on the windy side will preserve the

view and still give protection. There are many varieties of materials which can be used to build the patio. Among the lightest cover materials available are woven bamboo and reed. Both cast soft, irregular shade patterns. Both require a minimum understructure because of their light weight and both are easy to install. Canvas covers are also popular. It is important with these covers that they are not sited near trees Decause

damp leaves can cause mildew. When storing canvas, clean it and let it dry thoroughly. Never store it on concrete or earth floors where it can absorb moisture. Glass allows plenty of light into the patio blit the material is difficult for amateurs to handle correctly. If the glass roof is not installed correctly it can act as a heat trap and create a condensation problem. A wooden lath makes a versatile overhead cover. Laths (thin wooden strips)

can be used in several ways. Sizes and shapes of laths can be mixed and they can be spaced, staggered and patterned to varying degrees. The best woods to use are those that are naturally weather resistant, such as redwood. To prevent the wood from warping, a sealer-preserva-tive can be applied. Adjustable louvres are a good choice for patio shelters. They allow control of the light or shade. A louvre shelter is made up of parallel boards. The boards are set on edge or at

an angle, to take the greatest advantage of their width in blocking the sun. Some type of screening is also necessary if the heat and glare from the afternoon sun is to be avoided. Fencing is the best solution. Decoration adds the final effect to the patio. Lots and lots of greenery, waterfalls, and statues all increase the attractiveness of the area.