Home Awning Choices
Protection from the Elements
Summertime and backyard barbecues, or just sitting outside and enjoying the weather can be ruined by the blistering, hot rays of the sun or an unexpected afternoon thunderstorm. Without an outdoor shelter, such as a covered deck or carport, many people will opt for staying indoors when the temperatures rise. What if you and your friends and family could enjoy the outdoors more without building an additional structure onto your home permanently? Awnings come in a variety of types, colors, and brands, and could be just what your home needs.
Awnings not only provide shade & shelter, they can also help on electrical bills in areas inside the home that receive a lot of sun by keeping out excess heat in the summertime. One unique feature is that you do not have to always use them. Awnings come automatic or manual, with manual brands being more economical if you don't mind a little extra physical work.
Types of Awnings
Retractable
The most popular type of awnings are retractable awnings , and can be folded or rolled up when not being used. Their indestructible weather-proof fabric and sturdy framework hold up in the harshest weather conditions including: heavy thundershowers, snow, and high wind.
They require very little clearance room, about six inches of horizontal unobstructed wall or roof space to allow for installation. They can be retracted in usually less than a minute, manually or automatically. Newer models of retractable awnings have automatic sensors that unroll the awnings on sunny days, and retract them on windy days or during heavy downpours making them virtually maintenance free.
Properly placed awnings over windows can lower inside room temperatures 8-15 degrees, saving homeowners as much as 25% on their cooling bills. With the huge variety of colors, fabrics, and designs, awnings can be found to match most exteriors, making the awning an extension or outdoor room of your home.
Stationary
Stationary awnings are fixed frame awnings that are perfect for areas where retractable awnings can't be used. Perfect around bump outs and odd shaped areas. Their fixed placement allows for a little more creativity. Stationary awnings come in a variety of colors, and shape and size choices including: basic rectangular, domes, and arches.
Portable
Portable awnings are those popular pop-up or collapsible frame canopies or tents seen at beaches, yard sales, and many outdoor summertime events. They provide a cool spot in the shade for those who are always on the go.
