Back 1985 When Acadiana Patios was in its infancy there were a variety of Patio Covers to choose. The “W” Pan (as it was called back then) was the staple in the industry! It was very sturdy and could withstand 110 mph plus winds. There were grooves scored on the surface to add strength. The major drawback, however, was the closed Gutter System. This closed Gutter System made cleaning leaves very difficult if not impossible. All and all it was Functional and did the job.

Around the mid-1990’s I came across a panel that would change the course of the Patio Cover business in Acadiana. I discovered a “Flat Panel” that was able to fit the closed Gutter System making it a little easier to clean. It looked better than the “W” pan, but the design was still flawed. Low and behold I found a company distributing an “Open Gutter System” which was a game changer. The newer design was much more functional due to the ease of the Gutter Cleaning.

Besides the Shade, a Patio Covers provides it also has to route water off the roof. The Flat Panel is both Beautiful & Functional.

When it comes to Flat Pan Patio Covers nothing is more important than knowledge of material span capabilities. Engineering requires certain span restrictions to ensure safety and longevity! A reputable company like Acadiana Patios pays strict attention to span capabilities as dictated from business mandated by manufacturers. These span capabilities are not always the case with some Dealers. You can be assured when you buy from Acadiana Patios all span requirements or strictly adhered. The above ensures your safety and guarantees Quality.

Support beams also play a vital role where span capabilities are concerned. With multiple sizes, & shapes Beams also must comply with strict spans that meet engineering standards. Not complying with these restrictions could cause a Flat Pan Patio Cover Collapse. The collapse also can occur in high enough Winds or heavy enough rains if Span capabilities do not adhere too! When shopping or getting bids be sure to question their Material Span Capabilities and that all span requirements or strictly adhered. You’ll be glad you did. More to come! So, stay tuned!

When It Comes to Patio Improvements there is no other company more Qualified or Experienced than Acadiana Patios. And, of noteworthy is our Proven Track Record of Excellence for over 30 years of both Sales and Installations of Flat Panel Patio Covers.

With an open gutter system, a Flat Panel Patio Cover lends its self to easy cleaning! Above all gutters need to be cleaned on a regular basis! Consequently, cleaning your gutters will prevent Rainwater “Backups”. These “Backups” can create what is called “Oil-Canning” or “Waviness” to the panels. Hence they can cause separation of the Locked Seams and cause a possible collapse!

Customers have a choice of five (5) Colors and two (2) Finishes. For this reason, they are not only attractive but functional. Furthermore, with the Baked-On-Enamel Finish, they are both durable and resists fading.

Finally, the Support Columns are available in Aluminum or Cypress (in a variety of sizes). Buyers should beware that Support Columns should be anchored to an existing patio concrete slab. Anchors are designed to expand in these pre-drilled holes for strength. With the Support Columns correctly anchored; they should withstand Wind-Loads that may typically surpass 135 mph. Noteworthy is that properly anchored Support Columns are mandated by most City and State Codes when the spans are adhered to.

In my next blog, I will touch on even more Features and Benefits of the Flat Pan Patio Cover. So, Stay Tuned for more from Acadiana Patios!