I've been having a tough time with my patio cover panels breaking every year when the Santa Ana winds hit. It seems like if I don't replace them, the damage just gets worse. Right now, I only have a temporary fix by buying replacements from Home Depot and using plastic brackets with 2x4s for support, all secured with deck screws. I'm looking for a more permanent solution that can withstand the elements. Any advice?
3 Answers
You might want to consider switching to metal panels instead of those plastic ones. The cheap plastic just doesn't hold up well over time because of UV exposure—it gets brittle and breaks. Metal could save you a lot of hassle in the long run!
Just a heads up, the reason your panels keep breaking is largely due to ultraviolet rays from the sun. It's all about physics—those rays damage the material over time. Switching materials could really make a difference!
If you're keen on letting in natural light, I suggest reaching out to a local glass company for flat laminate glass panels as a replacement. They can provide a much sturdier solution while still keeping your space bright.