As Sacramento transitions into rainy-season weather, now is the perfect time to freshen up your outdoor space—starting with your patio cover. Whether you have a solid aluminum cover or a lattice design from West Coast Awnings, a little seasonal maintenance can help protect your investment, extend its lifespan, and keep your backyard looking its best.
Here’s how to properly clean your patio cover and why this simple seasonal task is especially important for Sacramento homeowners.
Why Cleaning Matters Before the Rain Arrives
Sacramento’s fall and winter storms can take a toll on outdoor structures. Dust, pollen, leaves, and summer debris accumulate during the dry months, and once rain hits, that buildup can stain or clog drainage channels.
Cleaning your patio cover before the rainy season helps:
- Prevent water pooling caused by blocked gutters or debris
- Keep mold and mildew from developing
- Maintain the appearance of your patio cover
- Extend the life and durability of aluminum or Durawood™ materials
- Protect the value of your outdoor living space
A quick, seasonal refresh means your patio cover keeps performing its best—year after year.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Patio Cover
1. Remove Loose Debris
Start by clearing off leaves, twigs, dirt, and dust.
- Use a soft-bristle broom or leaf blower
- Avoid using metal or stiff brushes that may scratch the finish
This simple step ensures you’re not smearing debris into the surface when washing.
2. Spray Down the Patio Cover
Using a garden hose with moderate pressure:
- Rinse the top and bottom of the cover
- Pay close attention to corners and connection points where debris builds up
- Wash down posts and support beams as well
A hose is ideal—but a pressure washer can also be used.
3. Wash with Mild Soap
Mix a gentle cleaning solution:
- 1 gallon of water
- A few drops of mild dish soap or car-wash soap
Using a soft sponge or microfiber mop:
- Scrub the surface lightly
- Focus on areas with dirt streaks or buildup
- For lattice covers, weave the sponge between slats to remove trapped dust
Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive pads, which can harm aluminum finishes.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing, rinse again to remove all soap residue. Soap left behind can attract more dirt once the rain hits.
5. Clear Gutters & Downspouts (If Applicable)
If your patio cover has integrated drainage channels:
- Remove leaves, mud, and debris
- Run water through the channels to make sure drainage flows properly
Proper water flow prevents sagging, staining, and moisture damage.
6. Inspect for Wear or Damage
While cleaning, look for:
- Loose screws or connections
- Damaged flashing
- Scratches in the finish
- Areas needing touch-ups
If you notice anything concerning, West Coast Awnings can inspect and repair your patio cover to ensure it’s ready for winter weather.
Why Aluminum and Durawood™ Patio Covers Are Ideal for Wet Weather
Not all patio covers are built for Sacramento’s rainy season. Many wood or DIY-style covers fade, rot, or warp once moisture hits.
West Coast Awning’s aluminum and Durawood™ patio covers offer:
- Resistance to rust, rot, fading, and moisture
- Minimal maintenance requirements
- Long-lasting durability (20–30+ years)
- Lifetime material warranties
- Custom styles tailored to your home
Unlike big-box store kits, these structures are engineered for year-round performance—including heavy Sacramento rain.
Prepare Your Patio Cover for the Rainy Season With West Coast Awnings
Regular cleaning is the first step in protecting your outdoor space, but choosing the right patio cover makes maintenance even easier.
West Coast Awnings provides:
- Custom-built aluminum & Durawood™ patio covers
- Lattice and solid roof designs
- Aluminum window awnings
- Professional installation
- Lifetime product warranty & 5-year labor warranty
- 5-star customer service trusted across Sacramento
If your current patio cover needs repairs—or you’re ready to upgrade to something that lasts—our team is here to help.
Get Ready for Rainy Weather With a Free Consultation
A clean patio cover is just the beginning. Make sure your entire outdoor space is prepared for the season with a durable, low-maintenance upgrade.
📞 Call West Coast Awnings: (916) 251-7206
🌐 Visit: wcawnings.com
📅 Schedule your free estimate today!