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Patio Cover with Glulam Beams, Steel Posts, & Skylift Risers

About This Project

Project Details

Patio Cover With Glulam Beams, Steel Posts & Skylift Risers

This expertly crafted patio cover showcases the perfect blend of structural innovation and elevated design—uniting raw strength with architectural warmth. Built using a combination of exposed glulam beams, steel posts, and Skylift roof risers, the structure balances rugged durability with clean, modern aesthetics. It’s more than a cover—it’s a statement piece that transforms the outdoor living area into a bright, open, and livable retreat.

At the heart of the design are the glulam (glue-laminated) beams, known for their strength, dimensional stability, and natural beauty. Exposed overhead, they give the patio an authentic, architectural feel while supporting the wide roof span without compromise. Their warm wood grain softens the industrial edge of the powder-coated steel posts, which offer sleek lines and unmatched support with minimal visual obstruction – keeping sightlines open and the structure feeling light, not heavy.

To elevate the roofline and optimize airflow and visibility, Skylift brackets were used to raise the patio cover above the fascia of the home. This not only enhances ventilation but also increases the perceived volume of the space, allowing more light to pour in while maintaining full protection from rain and sun. The ceiling is finished with tongue-and-groove soffit paneling, adding a rich, textured detail that elevates the entire design – bridging rustic charm with refined craftsmanship.

From morning coffee to evening gatherings, this patio cover is built to serve as a year-round outdoor living space—engineered for strength, styled for comfort, and finished with care. It stands as a true example of modern outdoor design: smart, striking, and built to last.

Project Objectives

The goal of this project was to design and build a structurally sound yet visually refined patio cover that could complement the home’s existing architecture while significantly improving year-round outdoor usability. The client wanted a solution that embraced modern materials and open sightlines without sacrificing the warmth and comfort of natural wood. Structural integrity, long-term performance, and architectural harmony were top priorities throughout the design and build process.

Key design decisions—including the use of glulam beams for their strength and aesthetic, steel posts for a clean structural profile, and Skylift brackets for enhanced ceiling height—were carefully integrated to create a cover that was both functional and expressive. The finished structure needed to feel intentional and cohesive, serving as a seamless extension of the home.

Key project objectives included:

  • Create an open and modern patio cover that enhances outdoor living without blocking light or views.
  • Utilize exposed glulam beams for their strength, clean lines, and natural wood character.
  • Incorporate powder-coated steel posts to support the structure with minimal bulk and maximum stability.
  • Raise the roofline with Skylift risers to improve airflow, increase light exposure, and create a more spacious feel.
  • Finish the ceiling with tongue-and-groove soffit paneling for added warmth, texture, and visual continuity.
  • Design with long-term performance in mind by selecting durable materials that can withstand the elements year-round.
  • Ensure all components integrate cleanly with the existing home architecture for a polished, professional finish.

The end result achieved all of these goals—delivering a space that is equally suited for quiet moments, entertaining guests, and adding long-term value to the home.

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