Houston Patio Builder vs General Contractor: What’s the Difference?

When planning a backyard upgrade in Houston, homeowners often ask: Should I hire a patio builder or a general contractor? While both professionals can manage construction projects, their expertise, focus, and value to your outdoor living space are very different.

Let’s break it down.

🧱 What Is a General Contractor?

A general contractor (GC) typically oversees a wide range of construction projects—from home additions and remodels to roofing and plumbing coordination. They manage subcontractors, timelines, and budgets across multiple trades.

Pros:

• Broad construction knowledge
• Can manage large-scale renovations
• Familiar with permitting and inspections

Cons:

• May outsource patio work to subcontractors
• Less specialized in outdoor structures
• Higher overhead and markup for niche projects

🌤️ What Is a Patio Builder?

A patio builder specializes in designing and constructing outdoor living spaces—like patio covers, aluminum pergolas, screen rooms, and shade structures. That means experienced patio builders in Houston have a better understanding of local weather, soil conditions, HOA rules, and city permitting for outdoor builds.

Pros:

• Deep expertise in patio materials (aluminum, cedar, insulated panels)
• Custom covered patio designs tailored to your home’s layout
• Faster turnaround and lower cost than GCs
• Direct communication with the builder—not a middleman

Cons:

• Focused on outdoor structures only (not full remodels)

🛠️ Why Choose a Houston Patio Builder?

At Lone Star Patio Builders, we don’t just build patios—we live and breathe them. Our team has installed thousands of custom patio covers across Houston, Katy, Cypress, Sugar Land, and surrounding areas. We know what works, what lasts, and what adds real value to your home.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• 30+ years of patio-specific experience
• Custom aluminum and insulated roof systems
• Local permitting and HOA compliance handled for you
• Transparent quotes and fast installation timelines

🏡 The Bottom Line

If you're building a patio cover, pergola, or screen room in Houston, a specialized patio builder will deliver better results, faster service, and more value than a general contractor. You’ll get expert craftsmanship, local knowledge, and a structure built to last in Texas weather.

Ready to transform your backyard? Start your free quote with Lone Star Patio Builders today and see why Houston homeowners trust us for custom outdoor living.