covered north alfresco options

cupcakes24 · Apr 24, 2022 5:49 pm

I'm after some ideas on what options are available for a covered alfresco area that won't block too much light. The alfresco will cover a large north facing window and can't really be put anywhere else. We definitely want it to have a roof to use the area when raining but don't want to ruin the northern sun coming in to the lounge.
Thanks for any suggestions

stonesthrow · Apr 24, 2022 6:24 pm

I would consider a retractable roof if you're able to change the roof line so the area is not under the main roof. Blocking winter sun (when you're lucky to have the orientation) is a big mistake imo (assuming your not in Northern Australia).

cupcakes24 · Apr 24, 2022 6:33 pm

retractable won't work for us unfortunately. After options that are permanent

stonesthrow · Apr 24, 2022 7:23 pm

I don't really understand the question then? If the roof is permanent then you have no options for bringing light into the living room

cupcakes24 · Apr 24, 2022 8:00 pm

i'm wondering if glass or polycarbonate will let enough light through. Also if there are any other clear roofing options

cupcakes24 · Apr 24, 2022 8:02 pm

also maybe different roofing angles?

stonesthrow · Apr 24, 2022 8:16 pm

cupcakes24

also maybe different roofing angles?

So it's not under the main roof? Do you have a drawing?

Poly sheets are not effective at bringing in light through windows from an undercover area. It can also get hot sitting under it from my experience.

Glass would work but do you really want a glass roof?

If the structure isn't part of the main roof and you want it to be fixed, you could angle it but it would have to be 30 degrees or so.

Why is retractable not an option?

home2023 · Oct 02, 2022 7:09 pm

May I ask what you ended up with, OP?

I'm currently in the same dilemma.

stonesthrow · Aug 21, 2024 12:08 am

cupcakes24

I'm after some ideas on what options are available for a covered alfresco area that won't block too much light. The alfresco will cover a large north facing window and can't really be put anywhere else. We definitely want it to have a roof to use the area when raining but don't want to ruin the northern sun coming in to the lounge.
Thanks for any suggestions

Only real option is to have an open pergola with a retractable cover. I'd highly recommend looking into it. We've moved into a new house that has lots of exposed north facing rooms and its not possible to quantify how good the house feels to have sun shining in during a cold winter. Putting the warmth aside it just feels infinitely better to be home compared to our old house with little sun coming in.

pram1403 · Aug 27, 2024 12:22 am

I had a similar issue with my alfresco area. I ended up going with clear polycarbonate panels for the roof. They’re great because they let in tons of light but still keep the rain out. Just make sure you have proper drainage to avoid any pooling. It worked really well for me, so you might want to give it a shot!