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Louvered Pergolas
What is a Pergola with Louvers?
Contrary to what most people think about patio covers… they are not always meant to be open. Or closed for that matter. Surprisingly, many people have no idea that louvered patio covers are even a “thing”. Well, they are. Albeit these types of covers are popular in commercial applications, still, we install these in residential as well.
Let’s not forget that there are some houses which look like commercial buildings in every way imaginable. Despite the fact that Los Angeles, California gets little rainfall annually, having the ability to open and close your patio cover on a whim is nothing short of cool.
Price range for a Louvered patio cover
Here in Southern California, Louvered patio covers cost anywhere from $75 to $110 installed. Roll-formed Louvered patio covers can cost as little as $25-$50 installedAs with everything in life, money is usually the deciding factor when making any decision. No matter how much of it you have, counting your pennies is just a way of life. In order to provide you with an estimated cost of this product, we had to contact all of these major suppliers of opening roof systems. What we did find throughout our investigation is most all of the manufacturers are within $25 of each other per square foot. At least all of them with the exception of Solare’s roll-formed kit.
Expect to pay more
Louvered patio covers or adjustable louvered patio covers are just that. These types of opening roof systems simply allow sunlight in when you want. Similarly, these electric roofs allow the user to close them when it’s raining. Or, whenever the need arises. Unlike the traditional lattice or covered patio covers you might be familiar with, these types of automatic patio cover roofs give you the very best of both worlds.
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The Benefits of owning a louvered patio cover
As one might expect, there are multiple benefits to owning a louvered patio cover. As previously mentioned, having an automatic patio cover that can open and close, gives the owner more use of their property. In the back yard, it means more area to entertain or play. If it’s a commercial installation, it means more seating area thus, more revenue.
Although it’s not nearly as tropical here in Los Angeles as say… Flordia. Still, we Angelinos love to sit out in the rain right? What better way to do this than under a fully covered patio Cover? This is exactly what louvered patio covers offer. In a word… Versatility.
Louvered Roof Patio Covers in Los Angeles are Good For Business
Even though Los Angeles, California is considered the sunshine state, there are times when we need a little shade or protection. Likewise, rain isn’t on many people’s radar out here but we still need to consider it. Especially when we own places of business where people gather.
Louvered patio covers are a great solution to the needs of business owners everywhere. Not only do you gain more useable space for people to dine for restaurants, but you can also shield the patrons from the weather, no matter what the weather brings.
More space out of the harsh sunshine or rain brings more clientele. Adding space to an existing building is expensive. Alternatively, you can build these louvered patio covers for a fraction of the cost of adding brick and mortar square footage. Adjustable louvered patio covers provide this and more. Adding heaters and misters is easy. Not to mention these components are all controlled via your smart device.
COVID 19 regulations
With many businesses in the year 2020, outdoor dining is now the “new normal”. In fact, without outdoor dining, many of these businesses won’t survive. Soon, many businesses who never imagined outdoor seating would be so beneficial will have a change of heart. Automatic louvered patio covers are just the ticket. Not only can you survive the COVID regulations but you can flourish well after this pandemic is behind us.
A few things that can change the price of your adjustable patio covers
Understand that pricing is subject to variations within the patio cover system itself. Here are a few things that might affect the pricing of your Louvered patio cover system.
- First off, the color of your patio cover will affect the price. Sure, these systems all come in standard colors, however, custom color options are usually available with most manufacturers. That said, changing the color of your adjustable patio cover is likely going to be the largest increase in price you’ll see.
- Secondly, is the size. Of course, a 100 square foot patio cover isn’t going to be the same price as a 1000 square foot cover with aluminum louvers.
- Third we have the installation. Although most of these patio covers are expected to be installed in their own footings. Some might be installed on rooftop decks. That is to say, within a wood frame. Instead of cement as its main connection to the earth, it’ll be the wood structure transferring the load to earth.
- , Of course, coming in last but not least, we have contractor mark-up. Albeit all contractors are not the same. nor do all contractors price the same. Contractors who choose to have all the necessary insurances like workers’ compensation or/and general liability will likely price their services higher. Thus, their product will likely cost more.
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Choosing the right adjustable louvered patio cover
How to choose the right Adjustable louvered patio cover system? The million-dollar question am I right? With so many manufactures producing louvered patio covers in Los Angeles or the country for that matter, how do we choose? Allow me to lend you a hand. First, let’s go through a few of the different manufacturers.
Equinox® louvered patio covers
If you can afford to play in this sandbox, what better louver manufacturer to work with than one as stable as Equinox®, a subsidiary of Omnimax International. Few companies can live up to the standards set by the Equinox® line. In fact, I’d bet that most of the other manufacturers of louvered covers more than likely used the Equinox system as a gauge, by which to make their own line. It’s Miami Dade Strong while conforming to most wind and snow loading requirements. She’s perfectly protected with a powder coating rather than paint. When it comes to simple sophistication, the Equinox® is extremely hard to top.
About Omimax International
Omnimax® is a pretty large company. Formed in 1996, you can find their products in just about every big-box store there is. They’re a global producer of all types of different products. From Architectural copper to exterior building cladding, windows, gutter systems, and other transportation products and materials.
Managing 12 other brands which include Alumawood, Amerimax, Amerimax fabricated products, Windows and doors by Amerimax, Equinox Louvered Roof systems, Berger products, Coppercraft, Euramax industries, Ellbee, Fabrall, and Global Expanded Metals. So as you can see. Buying from Omimax isn’t like buying a product from a start-up. Knowing you have this type of team behind you makes people feel warm and fuzzy about dropping some serious coin on their Equinox system.
Features of the Equinox® adjustable roofs
Interestingly enough, ordering from In n Out is pretty similar to ordering an Equinox patio cover. Thus, both are customizable. Both are popular in Southern California. Obviously, when ordering your Equinox you may want to hold the grilled onions and mustard.
In a similar fashion to ordering a Double Double, you can add items to your custom patio cover. What kinds of things you aks? For starters, you can add heaters. Of course… Heaters no problem. What else? Misters? You bet. Misters are no problem. How about lighting? Can you add lights or screens to the patio cover? Absolutely.
Louvered patio cover hardware
Of course, the Equinox® begins with an all-aluminum extruded product for maximum durability. With its 20 years warranty, there’s no need for paint or any other protective measures to keep this cover looking brand new. Stainless steel mounting hardware connects the louvers to the framework. What’s more, the aluminum louver hardware is stainless, it, therefore, resists rust and deterioration.
Louvered adjustable patio cover controls
Equinox® remote control with Solar for your patio cover roof
Our Equinox® lightweight louvered patio covers can be opened for the perfect amount of light or closed during rainfall. Speaking of opening… the mechanics behind the operation in manufactured by Smofi®. It’s a remote-controlled smart motor with hi-tech sensors that can actually detect different weather patterns. Somfi® motors will automatically adjust open or closed depending on these weather conditions. So during high unexpected winds, the louvers will open. In the event of torrential rainfall, it will automatically close for protection.
Another great feature with the Equinox® automatic patio cover roof is the ability to use your smartphone to operate the patio cover. Using your smartphone allows versatility. For example, you can create custom scenes. Open or close the adjustable patio cover with a schedule.
In addition, the Equinox® system comes complete with sustainable solar battery packs which can power the Somfi® motor. Solar batteries are mounted on the patio covers roof in a discreet location so you’ll never see it.
Equinox® adjustable roofs gutters
Indeed, rainfall has to be routed away from the patio cover. In fact, they do this by adding an integrated high-volume hidden gutter system within the louvers. For the most part, these gutters manage the rainfall run-off and are installed along the perimeter of the cover.
Additionally, the gutter system can be routed to dump into your existing yard drains if present. That way, the water from your cover can be safely diverted off of your property totally. Because the gutters are integrated into the patio cover, you don’t even see them.
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Equinox® Warranty
Equinox® Color choices
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Average price of an Equinox® Patio Cover
Of course, the question is always how much? How much does the Equinox® louvered patio cover cost? The Equinox® patio cover costs between $35 and $75 per square foot. But, it can cost up to $100 per square foot depending on the installation requirements. Footings, engineering requirements, or other circumstances can attribute to a higher per square foot cost.
Furthermore, the buyer has to take into consideration contractor fees. Without a doubt, all contractors are not the same in quality, experience, or fees. Therefore, the price you get for your Equinox® in Los Angeles may not be the same as in say, Orange County.
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Equinox Images
Contact Equinox louver Patio Cover systems
Call them: 1-800-448-4033Email them: https://www.equinoxroof.com/contact/
See them: https://www.equinoxroof.com
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Solara louvered patio covers
Solara is another company in the US that manufacturers louvered patio covers. What makes these guys a little different is that they are not so much a cookie-cutter louver manufacturer. Their patio covers are all custom made one at a time. Of course, keeping such a close watch on their product helps with quality and finish I’m sure. Nevertheless, the custom is always still custom.
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Solaras two lines of Louvered adjustable patio covers
Solara patio cover systems are in a class all their own by offering both types of covers in two flavors. Roll-formed and extruded. In case you weren’t familiar with the two here’s a quick louvered lesson.Back to top of page
Roll-formed Aluminum Louvers
For starters, Solara is the only manufacture to sell roll-form louvered roof systems. As a company that only sells patio covers in Los Angeles, we’re continually faced with engineering challenges. The roll-formed louvered patio covers really help with this.
Solaras Roll-formed Aluminum Louvers are in fact sturdy
Despite the fact that roll-forming is considered less structurally sturdy by many (of course, it is). Still, these Solara adjustable patio cover systems are able to withstand up to 30 pounds of snow load per sq ft and a 150 mile per hour wind. For many of our Los Angeles applications, this exceeds our minimum requirements.
How much are the Roll-formed Aluminum Louvers by Solara
The approximate cost per square foot for a Roll-formed Solara patio cover is $19.26. Compared to extruded, it’s obvious that the reduction in material contributes to these savings. Obviously the less material one product has over another, 70% less, it simply means it will cost less. And it does. However, according to the Solara website, it’s about 40-70% less than its extruded louvered roofed counterpart.
When we compared the two same patio covers, one extruded and the other Roll-formed, we only noticed a 22% difference. Regardless, it’s still savings. Perhaps the Solara company was comparing their roll-formed adjustable system to other manufacturers extruded. Whatever the case may be, one thing is for certain…Seeing that the lesser expensive option is so affordable, as a homeowner whos trying to choose between solid wood or Alumawood roofed cover or lattice, you can now get both in one product.
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Solara Roll-Formed Louver Colors
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FAQs | Solara Roll-Formed
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Solara patio cover after a storm
Engineering Links for Solara Patio Covers
Solara Warranty | (From their website)
You shouldn’t buy anything nowadays without a warranty. Patio covers are no different. Whether it’s one year or one day, for many consumers the warranty is insurance. We all know how important insurance is. Most of the aluminum louvered patio cover companies have some type of warranty with their system. With so many moving parts, it just makes sense.
The Solara warranty like so many others is a limited warranty. this means outside of normal wear and tear caused by time itself, they’ll stand behind their product.
The Solara Smart Shading System (the “System”) is designed to be free from defects in material and to operate properly under conditions of normal wear, subject to the terms and conditions on this warranty. SOLARA ADJUSTABLE PATIO COVER LLC (“Solara’) is pleased to provide you with the following warranties:Solara Company
10 years limited warranty – the louvers are warranted for a period of ten (10) years from the date of completed installation of the System against defects that affect their operation. Please note that this warranty may be voided if you fail to keep the Louvre troughs clean from dirt and debris (leaves, rocks, branches, etc.).
15 years limited warranty – the manual opening system, pins, brackets, flashing, shafts, springs, and fiberglass components are warranted for fifteen (15) years from the date of completed installation of the System. This warranty may be voided if you fail to operate the manual opening system to the full opening at least twice a month.
15 years limited warranty – the motor, motherboard, transformer, and remote control are warranted for five (5) years from the date of the completed installation, and then 10% per year prorated until the 15th year.
Click HERE for a link to their warranty
Solara Extruded Aluminum Louvers
As previously mentioned, the Solara company appears to have thought of everything. Indeed, not only do they produce a cost-effective patio cover in a rolled-formed material. In the same way, they produce a heavy-gauge extruded version as well.
Extruded aluminum louvered patio covers are much heavier. Therefore, they can be made for such applications as commercial projects or high-end residential. Many times, an extruded option is necessary when engineering dictates the minimum and or maximum dimensions. Let’s now take a look at the Solara extruded patio cover system.
Solara Commercial Patio Covers
For up to 25 years it seems Solara has been supplying patio covers to multiple different types of commercial applications. On their website they provide a list of reasons why their patio cover is just a darn good idea. So here they are…
- More sitting area outdoors
- Of all louver patio cover manufacturers, Solara is most affordable (their website)
- Can be installe dinto any substructure like wood or steel or cement
- 6 Colors which come standard and 1000 custom color options
- Maintenance is easy
- Can be designed into almost any shape
- Manual or motorized
- They claim to have the best warranty on the market
- You can opt for lighting or heating systems
- They manufacture the longest louver at 23 feet long
- Solara is the only company who offers roll formed and extruded louvered patio cover roof systems
- Made in the USA for over 25 years
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A few facts about the Solara Extruded Louver Roof System
With standard “generic engineering the Solara Extruded Louver Roof System can withstand a 30 PSF snow load. This translates into an 18,000 pound maximum for the average 20′ x 30′ patio cover design. So you people who want to build this cover in Colorado, be my guest.
The Solara extruded louver design is the thickest on the market. Coming in at a massive 1.9mm thickness, it barely fits through a doorway. Sort of. Additionally, they have a vinyl seal which is helpful in sealing the entire system from the elements. This seal is proprietary to Solara.
As mentioned previously, their louver blades can stretch up to 23 feet in length. I have to admit, that’s absolutely the longest that I’ve heard of. Indeed, the biggest difference between the roll-formed and extruded really is the spans. The extruded patio covers can span up to 40% more… or longer.
Let’s say you live in Arizona and you go out for the evening. Let’s also suppose there’s a monster monsoon headed your way and you totally forgot to close the louvers. Have no fear… these bad boy louvers have been rated for winds as strong as 150 miles per hour. So no need to fret. Go ahead… sit back and have that cheesecake. Your cover will still be there when you get home.
Solara offers a DIY patio cover kit
Calling all DIY-ers…finally, someone makes a louvered patio cover kit that the average individual can install. Or at least try. Solara sells a louvered patio cover kit which is designed for the average person with general to minimal construction knowledge. We encourage you to visit their site here, for more information regarding Aluminum Louvered patio cover kits.
Solara Images
How much does the Solara Roll-formed adjustable patio cover cost?
The Solara Roll-formed adjustable patio cover system costs around $35.80 per square foot installed. Of course, that can change depending on the contractor you choose and their overhead. To get this figure we figured a 300 sq patio cover. Although its $1000 for shipping, still, this is a pretty darn good deal for a louvered system installed. ( Optional: $740 for two remotes)
How much do the Solara extruded adjustable patio covers cost?
We found that the Solara extruded adjustable patio cover costs around $42.94 per square foot installed. That is, using the same 300 square foot project example. In the same way as the roll-formed… the price is subject to contractor overhead. ( Optional: $740 for two remotes)
Make sure you factor in around $1000 for shipping for either patio cover systems.
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Contact Solara louver roof system
Call them: 602-388-8429Email them: sales@patiocover.us
See them: https://www.patiocover.us
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Apollo louvered patio covers
Unlike some of the other manufacturers, the Apollo Louvered roof system is built here in the United States. The Apollo patio cover system is constructed in Sacramento California by a team of individuals consumed with the outdoor living industry for over 25 years. Apollo adjustable roof systems come standard with state of the art controls, high-quality parts and an unwavering warranty for your protection.
Examples of Apollo patio cover images
Quick Stats for The Apollo patio cover
COATINGS
The Apollo patio cover is protected using an electrostatically applied polymer enamel, then oven-baked at 400°.
LOUVER MATERIAL
Apollo uses the highest strength aluminum. 6063-T6 Aluminum.
Post and beams are extruded
Standard post sizes are 4×4 and 6×6.
Beams come in two sizes; 2×8 and 2×10. Additional beams are, however, available
LOADING
Wind Loading:180 mph.
Snow loading 60 lb
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Apollo Color options
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Apollo warranty
15-year warranty – Apollo offers a strong 15-year warranty against any defects within their product. That is defects within the finishes and materials.
5-year warranty – Along with the 15-year warranty on finishes and materials they offer an additional 5-year warranty on the electrical components within their louvered system.
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Apollo patio cover brouchure
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Contact Apollo Adjustable Patio Cover System
Apollo Opening Roof System
Made In The USA
Office: 1-844-931-2281
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Outdoor Elements louvered patio covers
Hailing from sunny San Deigo, Outdoor Elements is also a louvered patio cover manufacturer. Having toured their factory and facility personally, I’d have to say their manufacturing systems are very impressive. Much like all the rest of these opening roof systems, the Ourdoor Elements product carries with it many of the same features. Extruded aluminum is the order of the day. Whether its the beam, the post of the blades themselves. Compared to many, their product is solid, strong, and sustainable.
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About the Outdoor Elements product
While many other louvered roof manufacturers get their materials from overseas, Outdoor Elements louvered roof systems are made right here in the United States. Much like the other systems available, the Outdoor Element Louvered slats can also open and close with the changing weather conditions. Product-wise, their slats are extremely thick allowing them to manufacture a very wide and robust louver slat.
Besides having a very strong louver, the beams and posts are also equally strong and robust. In fact, the Outdoor Elements louvered patio can extend or span as far as 22 feet. Within all of the aluminum are concealed hangers and other attaching pieces which are hidden from the eye. Thus, contributing to a very sleek and modern design.
Another key point to this particular system is that the louvers rotate a full 180 degrees. Instead of getting poured on during rain, these louver slats channel water off the roof and into an integral gutter system and onto the ground.
Outdoor Elements Features
Smart Control Systems
Before you spend the money on a louvered patio cover system you’re probably gonna want it to be automated correct? For instance, you will likely want the unit to controlled automatically if it’s rainy I’m sure. Outdoor elements provide a worry-free remote control patio cover roof remote control feature that not only controls the louvers but many other ancillary components as well.
Furthermore, you might want your controls to operate the lights and other features such as heaters for example. While other companies may offer this feature as an option the Outdoor Element control package makes this type of system standard with all their automatic louvered covers.
Flexible Heating
Generally speaking in Southern California sub-freezing temperatures aren’t really a huge concern. Indeed, heaters are a feature that no patio cover should be without in my opinion. Despite the fact that you can wear shorts year-round in Southern California.
Otherwise, if the fall temperatures are a tad chilly for you, you may want to consider heaters by Outdoor elements. Particularly if you are big into entertaining. Hence, adding a heating element will allow more time to be spent not indoors… but outdoors in your outdoor living area. Moreover, with the louvered patio cover system and heaters above you, you can enjoy your company even when it gets a little chilly.
Superior Screens
Looking for a little privacy. while inside your adjustable patio cover under the heaters? Of course… why not add some screens to that system? Especially when they can be custom-fitted to your exact specifications. Finally, a patio cover system that incorporates a screen for those of you who are living in areas where bugs can be more of a pest (pun intended) than anything else. While others may offer roller screens that you have to crank manually. The Outdoor element screens are fully automatic with their proprietary remote control system.
Creative Colors and Finishes
Of course, any high-end Louvered patio cover would be incomplete without a custom color selection. While there are six standard colors, there are also 16 custom colors. jot only can you choose one of these 22 colors they offer. But you can just as easily make up your own for a small fee. In addition to all of this, you can also mix and match your colors to your heart’s content.
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Outdoor Element Color Swatches
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Outdoor Element FAQs
OE Warranty Information
Since we live in a day and age where all things break a warranty becomes a necessity. As a result, warranties are almost expected am I right? Needless to say, these guys at OE, have a warranty much like everyone else. Perhaps a little longer or inclusive, but a warranty nevertheless.Ten years covers the paint and structural parts. After that, we have a five-year warranty for the electrical components.
Outdoor Element Sample Images
Contact Outdoor elements Aluminum Louvered Patio Cover Company
Call them: (855) 430 8722Email them: info@OutdoorElementsUSA.com
See them: https://outdoorelementsusa.com
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Struxure louvered patio covers
When Architect and designer Scott Selzer founded Struxure in 2011 he had one goal in mind. That being, designing a better outdoor living experience for his clients. At the same time, he was also busing with life as a grade-school teacher and contractor. At the same time.
So he set out to design a patio cover that opens and closes and one that the client could control all by themselves. Thus, Struxure was born. Today, Struxture is one of the leading Louver patio cover companies in the United States and beyond.
Struxure Automatic patio cover products
The Struxure company offers three levels or models of their patio covers. The Pivot6, Pan 6, and the Pan 6 slide. Each of these systems maintains its flawless, attention to detail design, and appearance. Homeowners now have not one option when it comes to designing their outdoor living space, but three.
Pivot 6
Struxures Pivot 6 is their flagship product. In fact, its the product by which all of their other products derive. Moreover, its also the product that most of their homeowners choose. With louvers that rotate a full 170 degrees, the Pivot 6 Louvered patio cover system allows the user the option of having full-sun, or partial, or none at all.
For design ideas, click here for their visualizer feature
Pivot 6 Slide
What has the ability to rotate and slide at the same time? Struxure calls it the Pivot 6 Slide. So what exactly is a Pivot 6 Slide? In short, its a louvered roofed patio cover that also slides open like a sunroof. Thus allowing the user the option of having a louvered roof or just plain open sky. Perfect for homeowners or businesses alike.
Click here for their visualizer feature
Pan 6
There are also times when the user may not wish to have a louver, lattice, or slide. In this case, there is a pan or solid roof option. For example, some areas of the cover might not lend itself to having a louver. Therefore, a solid section may be necessary.
For the pan 6, click here for their visualizer feature
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Struxure louvered patio covers
So what are the sizes of the struxure louvered patio cover systems materials? Here we have a list of the various dimensional material and options with the Struxure system.
- 2×8 or 2×10 Frame
- 5-1/2- or 7-1/2-Inch Gutter
- 4″, 6″ or 8″ Inch Posts
- Unique Tongue And Groove Design
- 6 Standard Colors
- Thousands of Custom Colors & Woodgrain Options
- Integrated 360 Degree Gutter System
- Numerous Options and Accessories
- Custom Designed to Suit Your Space
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Mission Control
While we don’t have a brand of motor used by Struxure to provide, we do, however, have their control system. Struxure chooses to use the Somfi system much like many of the other Louver patio cover manufacturers. Tried and tested, Somfi leads the industry in user experience and exceptionalism. What are some of the features?
Optional MyLink™
The Optional MyLink™ allows the user complete control over their Struxure with a simple smart device. The MyLink™ component is the integration source for a variety of control options compatible with the use of their system.
Wind Sensors
Depending on where the cover is installed, winds might get a little crazy. In this case, the wind sensor will capture the wind speed and automatically close the louvered roof when they exceed 60 MPH.
Rain Sensors
Although it doesn’t rain much here in Los Angeles, it can creep up on you on occasion. For this reason, Struxure includes a rain sensor. Of course, as you can imagine, its job is to close your louvers at the first sign of rain.
Wireless Wall Switch
On the other hand, if you choose not to use their remote control, they also have a handy wall switch that can be installed anywhere. No wiring needed.
Remote Control
Speaking of remote controls… these guys have a remote control that is actually water-resistant. Just in case you leave it outside the covered area during rain.
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Struxure Gallery
Struxure Color Selection
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Struxure Warranty
Since warranties are basically considered a necessity, everyone has them. Struxure’s warranties are 5, 10, and 15 years respectively. So let’s start from the beginning.
When it comes to protecting the power components like control panels, motors, solar parts, etc… they offer a 5-year warranty from the date of installation.
Likewise, they offer a decent warranty on the manual parts such as the manually operated or movable parts.
In addition to these warranties, there’s the 15-year warranty. This Struxure warranty covers the supporting components like the posts, louvers, and beams.
StruXure Outdoor warrants the product against defects in materials as follows.
Lastly, we have the big dog of warranties. The lifetime warranty against any manufacturing defects.
Struxure Contact Louver patio cover company
Call them: 866-381-2770
Email them: https://struxure.com/contact-us/
See them: https://struxure.com/
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