Covered Patio vs. Open Patio in Oklahoma — Which Is the Better Investment?
One of the first decisions Broken Arrow and Tulsa homeowners face when planning a new patio is whether to add a cover. It’s not a simple answer — covered patios cost significantly more upfront but dramatically extend the usability of your outdoor space in Oklahoma’s challenging climate. Here’s an honest comparison from VistaScapes.
Oklahoma’s Climate Makes This Decision More Important Than in Most States
Oklahoma’s weather is genuinely extreme. Summers regularly hit 95–105°F with humidity, making open patios feel like standing in an oven from about 10am to 7pm from June through August. Spring brings severe weather and frequent rain that turns an open patio into a no-go zone. Even fall and spring, which should be perfect patio weather, get interrupted by surprise storms. A covered patio in Broken Arrow isn’t a luxury — it’s what makes your investment actually usable.
Open Patio — Pros and Cons in Oklahoma
Pros
- Lower cost: An open patio is 40–60% less expensive than an equivalent covered structure
- Full sky views: Better for stargazing, watching weather, and maximizing natural light
- Simpler permits: No structural engineering required for the patio surface itself
- Good for pergola retrofitting: An open patio can have a pergola added later
Cons in Oklahoma
- Unusable in summer midday heat: From June–September, open concrete patios become uncomfortably hot
- Rain cancels outdoor plans: Oklahoma averages 40 inches of rain per year — a covered patio keeps parties going
- UV damage to furniture: Oklahoma’s UV index destroys uncovered outdoor furniture and cushions faster than most states
- Surface heat: Open concrete patios in direct sun can reach 130–150°F surface temperatures, making them barefoot-hostile
Covered Patio — Pros and Cons in Oklahoma
Pros
- Year-round usability: A covered patio in Broken Arrow can be used 10–11 months of the year with proper ceiling fans
- Protects furniture: Outdoor furniture lasts 3–5x longer under a covered structure
- Rain protection: Outdoor dining, entertaining, and morning coffee don’t get rained out
- Outdoor kitchen integration: A covered roof is practically required for a functional outdoor kitchen (protects appliances, provides mounting for lights and fans)
- Higher ROI: Covered patios consistently return more per dollar in home value in our market
Cons
- Higher cost: A properly built covered patio structure adds $15,000–$40,000 to the project cost depending on materials and size
- Requires permits: Structural covers typically require building permits in Broken Arrow
- Darker interior feel: A cover reduces natural light entering adjacent windows
Cost Comparison in Broken Arrow
| Option | 16×20 Example | Usable Months/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Open concrete patio | $8,000–$15,000 | 4–6 months |
| Patio + pergola | $18,000–$30,000 | 6–8 months |
| Fully covered patio structure | $28,000–$55,000 | 10–11 months |
The VistaScapes Recommendation
For most Broken Arrow and Tulsa homeowners who want to actually use their outdoor space, a covered patio is the right investment. The additional cost pays back in usability almost immediately. If budget is a constraint, we recommend building the concrete patio at full size now and adding a pergola or covered structure in phase two — the concrete investment is the same either way.
Call VistaScapes at 918-779-1317 to design the right outdoor solution for your budget and lifestyle.
