Alumawood Panel Comparison
Made from aluminum with a cedar embossed texture and a limited lifetime warranty, both make a good choice depending on your application.
The insulated panels are about 50% more expensive than the non-insulated ones because the insulated panels have a three-inch thick foam core.
The foam core insulation reduces the heat transfer from the sun and also allows maintenance as it is a walkable roof.
Non-Insulated Newport Panels
Industry Standard Interlock Design
Non-Insulated Details:
2 1/2" tall x 6" wide Non-Insulated Panel Single Sheet, No Foam
Bottom of Panel: 3" Tongue & Groove Design
Top of Panel: Standing Seam Roof (you can see the walls of the panels)
Available in: White, Desert Sand, Mojave Tan, Adobe, Latte, Graphite and Black.
3" Insulated Maxx Panels
Snap-N-Lock Interlock design creates a strong connection and is easy to install.
High Density EPS 3" thick 1lb Closed Cell Foam
4'-0" Panel Width
Aluminum Skin on both sides
8" planked design Top & Bottom
Available in White or Desert Sand.
3" Maxx Insulated Panel Performance
Up to 15 to 20 Degrees Cooler!
Insulated will keep the area cooler, especially in late afternoon if the sun beats down on the patio.
Insulated looks nice from above and below, even from a 2nd Story Window, popular with HOA's.
Insulated is even quieter in heavy rain storms. A plus if patio is next to your bedroom.
Available Panel Accessories
Ceiling Fans
Both insulated and non-insulated patio covers can accommodate a ceiling fan beam.
- Newport non-insulated panels: The fan beam is installed on top of the roof panel and enclosed with a cap to maintain a watertight seal.
- Insulated covers: The fan beam is integrated directly into the insulated foam core, creating a seamless, built-in solution.
Lighting
Recessed LED lighting can be installed in either panel system, providing enhanced illumination and a clean, modern look.
What You Need to Know
Choosing between an insulated and non-insulated Alumawood patio cover isn’t about picking the “better” option; it’s about picking the right one for your needs. Both options use the same high-quality aluminum materials—posts, beams, and fascia—and both offer long-lasting durability and shade.
In my 25 years of helping homeowners and contractors DIY their patio covers, I’ve seen how each style fits different climates, budgets, and priorities. Below, I’ll Walk you through the key differences, the most common questions people ask, and how you can decide which cover works best for you.
Is an Insulated Patio Cover Worth It?
Yes—especially if heat reduction is at the top of your wish list. Insulated patio covers—often called Alumawood Insulated Roof Panels—have an EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam core sandwiched between aluminum skins. This foam core reduces heat transfer, keeping the area underneath 15-20°F cooler (depending on your climate and sun exposure).
That said, non-insulated covers also effectively block direct sunlight, cutting down on the solar load. The main difference is that insulated panels offer an extra thermal barrier, while non-insulated panels rely on their aluminum surface to reflect the sun’s rays.
Why would I insulate a patio cover? There are no walls to hold in the air.
That’s true—but most heat doesn’t come from the sides; it comes from above. The sun’s rays hit the roof directly, and without insulation, that heat transfers through, making the space beneath much warmer. An insulated patio cover acts as a thermal barrier, significantly reducing heat buildup and keeping your patio noticeably cooler—even in an open-air setting.
When an Insulated Cover Makes Sense
- You live in a hotter climate and want maximum heat-blocking capability.
- You spend a lot of time on your patio, even in peak summer.
- Your patio is in a restricted airflow area (a courtyard or small yard with wind blocks), where heat tends to linger. Note: You may want to consider a rooftop mount (try-tech.com/roof-mount-options) to vent air between the patio cover and your house, which can help with temperature control in these low airflow applications.
- You’d like a walkable surface, especially if you need to access second-story windows, perform roof maintenance, or want a possible fire escape path.
- You prefer the smooth, finished look on top when viewing the cover from a second-story window.
- You’re considering a rooftop mount (try-tech.com/roof-mount-options) to vent air between the patio cover and your house, which can help with temperature control.
When a Non-Insulated Cover Makes Sense
- You primarily need shade and want a cost-effective option.
- You don’t live in a hot climate, or your patio is naturally shaded.
- You have a single-story home and don’t need to walk on the roof.
- You need a larger projection clear-span not possible with an insulated roof panel.
- You appreciate the soft, soothing sound of rain on the roof.
- Your patio is on the east side of your home, which means less harsh late-afternoon sun.
What’s the Difference Between Insulated and Non-Insulated Patio Covers?
Both insulated and non-insulated Alumawood covers share the same structural components: posts, beams, and fascia. The difference lies in the roof panels—one uses an EPS foam core for extra insulation, and the other features single-layer aluminum with structural U-channels.
- Heat Protection
- Insulated Patio Covers: Reduce heat transfer, keeping the space noticeably cooler.
- Non-Insulated Patio Covers: Block direct sunlight, helping to reduce overall heat but without insulation.
- Material & Construction
- Insulated Covers: Made with an EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam core sandwiched between aluminum skins.
- Non-Insulated Covers: Use single-layer aluminum panels reinforced with U-channels for support.
- Structural Strength
- Insulated Covers: The foam core and laminated aluminum skins create a rigid, durable structure.
- Non-Insulated Covers: Structural U-channels allow for longer unsupported spans.
- Appearance
- Insulated Covers: Feature an 8-inch plank-style ceiling for a modern, finished look.
- Non-Insulated Covers: Designed with 3-inch grooves to emulate traditional wood boards.
- Customization & Accessories
- Both covers support ceiling fans, lights, and accessories.
- Noise Control
- Insulated Covers: Dampen sound from rain for a quieter experience.
- Non-Insulated Covers: Have a soft, muted sound when it rains.
- Walkability & Maintenance
- Insulated Covers: Rated for light maintenance, allowing access for cleaning.
- Non-Insulated Covers: Not designed for walking—walking on them is not recommended.
- Cost Consideration
- Insulated Covers: Higher initial investment due to added materials and insulation benefits.
- Non-Insulated Covers: More budget-friendly, making it a cost-effective option.
Structural Strength: Why Non-Insulated Panels Can Span Further
Non-insulated panels have a 6-inch-wide U-channel design with 2.5-inch vertical walls, like a standing-seam roof. This shape gives exceptional resistance to bending, enabling longer clear spans.
Insulated panels, meanwhile, rely on a foam core plus laminated aluminum skins for rigidity. While both are durable, the Alumawood engineering report confirms that non-insulated panels can span further.
How Much Cooler Is an Insulated Patio Cover?
On a hot day, an insulated Alumawood cover can be 15-20°F cooler underneath than an uncovered or non-insulated area, thanks to the EPS foam. If you live in a very hot climate or you’re sensitive to heat, this can make a big difference in comfort.
That said, non-insulated covers still reduce solar load significantly, blocking direct heat from reaching your patio. If you already have plenty of shade, or you don’t mind a warmer space, the cost-effective, longer-span benefits of a non-insulated model might be just right.
Do Non-Insulated Patio Covers Make Noise in the Rain?
A common misconception is that rain on metal is loud or irritating. In my experience, it’s actually the opposite:
- It produces a soft, muted sound rather than a harsh ping.
- Many of my customers call it relaxing, like gentle white noise.
- It doesn’t stop you from carrying on conversations or enjoying the space.
- Some homeowners say it enhances the overall patio experience.
After thousands of installations, I’ve never had a complaint about noise—only compliments from folks who love the ambiance. If you enjoy the peaceful sound of rainfall, non-insulated might be a bonus.
Built-in Gutter System with Integrated Downspout for Proper Drainage
Every Alumawood patio cover—whether insulated or non-insulated—comes with a built-in, fully integrated gutter system designed to effectively manage rainwater and keep your patio dry. Unlike basic covers that require aftermarket gutters, our system is seamlessly incorporated into the structure, providing a clean, professional appearance while preventing unwanted water splatter.
How Our Drainage System Works
Instead of rain spilling over the edge and creating a mess, our integral gutter system directs water into a downspout tube that runs along the front of the post. This ensures proper drainage away from your patio and foundation, preventing puddles, splashes, and erosion around your outdoor space.
Which Is Easier for Running Electrical Wiring?
Both insulated and non-insulated covers can be fitted with ceiling fans, lights, or other accessories (try-tech.com/lighting-fans-options). Non-insulated panels sometimes make wiring a tad simpler because of their hollow channels, but insulated panels also accommodate wiring.
Either way, if you’re planning fans or recessed lighting, both cover types can handle it—so there’s no clear disadvantage with either option.
Safe and Concealed Electrical Wiring
One key advantage of insulated and non-insulated patio covers is the ability to conceal electrical wiring within the roof panels safely. This design keeps wires fully enclosed, protecting them from exposure to the elements, potential damage, or tampering. Insulated panels provide a clean, streamlined look without exposed wires, whether installing recessed lighting, ceiling fans, or other electrical accessories.
This enhances the aesthetics of your patio cover and ensures compliance with electrical safety standards. With wiring fully hidden inside the panels, you get a functional and secure installation.
Popular Questions about Alumawood Roof Panels:
- Will an Insulated Patio Cover Raise My Home’s Value?
An insulated patio cover can enhance your home's value by improving outdoor comfort and energy efficiency and appeal to potential buyers. Insulated panels help keep outdoor spaces cooler, creating a more enjoyable living area and reducing heat transfer to adjacent indoor spaces—potentially lowering energy costs.
- Can I Retrofit Insulation to a Non-Insulated Cover Later?
In theory, adding foam board insulation or a radiant barrier to an existing non-insulated cover is possible. However, non-insulated and insulated patio covers are designed completely differently, and retrofitting insulation isn’t as simple as it may seem. It could be a hassle, may not look seamless, and could lead to unforeseen issues since the structure wasn’t built to accommodate insulation. If insulation is a priority, I strongly recommend choosing an insulated cover from the start to ensure the best performance, longevity, and appearance. - Are Alumawood Patio Covers Good for DIY?
Absolutely. Many homeowners tackle these DIY Alumawood patio cover projects with basic tools. The interlocking panels and support beams are designed for relatively straightforward assembly. If you’re handy, you can handle it.
- Do Insulated Patio Covers Require Special Maintenance?
Not really. Both insulated and non-insulated Alumawood covers need little maintenance: occasional hosing off to remove dust, a mild cleaner for spots, and maybe a check of fasteners every year. Because they’re aluminum, there’s no wood rot, no frequent painting, and no termite worries.
- Can Insulated Covers Support a Ceiling Fan or Heavier Fixtures?
Yes. Both insulated and non-insulated patio covers can support ceiling fans or light fixtures. The insulated cover has an optional embedded fan beam integrated within the insulated panel for added strength.
For non-insulated covers, a fan beam is installed on top of the roof panel and covered with a protective cap to create a watertight seal.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Alumawood Patio Cover
Both insulated and non-insulated Alumawood patio covers are premium solutions that excel in durability and style. The best choice comes down to your climate, how you plan to use the space, and whether you need an accessible roof for a two-story home.
Go Insulated If:
- You want the coolest patio possible in hot climates.
- You’ll be up on the roof for maintenance or window-cleaning.
- You have limited airflow and want to prevent heat buildup.
- You’re seeking a smooth, finished look from above.
Go Non-Insulated If:
- You just need reliable shade in a milder climate or a naturally shaded yard.
- You’re on a budget and want cost-effective coverage.
- You have a single-story home that won’t require walking on the roof.
- You love the soothing sound of rain on metal.
- You appreciate longer spans with fewer support posts.
No matter which option you pick, both styles offer long-term weather resistance, minimal maintenance, and plenty of ways to customize your outdoor lifestyle.