A Hawaii carport builder is pushing aluminum lanai structures as a lower-maintenance replacement for wood, a pitch aimed at homeowners tired of repairs.

• Wood lanais in Hawaii need constant staining and sealing and are a target for termites.
• Aluminum framing gives termites nothing to eat and holds up better in the salty, humid island climate.
• Polycarbonate roof panels are said to block almost all UV rays while cutting how much heat comes through.
• The selling point is keeping the open-air feel while protecting furniture, flooring, and the structure itself.

Outlook: Expect more of these termite-and-heat pitches as Hawaii homeowners weigh upkeep costs against the price of replacing wood.