An awning can be a beautiful addition to your home. Not only can it provide comfort and beauty, but it can also create a safe outdoor living space that can increase the value of your property if done right. However, in order to ensure that you have made the best possible choice, it’s important to educate yourself before making the decision to invest in an awning. Below, you will find three things to consider before purchasing an awning for your home.
1. Where You Would Like to Install It
There are many things to consider when trying to figure out where to put your awning. Are you installing one in order to cut down on energy costs, to create a livable outdoor area, or to create an added surface that will protect you and your outdoor furniture from the sun’s strong rays or rain? What is likely the most important thing to consider before you make your purchase is where you will decide to place the awning.
Usually, awnings tend to be installed on patios or in backyards, but you may also choose to place them near windows so as to reduce energy costs. A window awning can do so by providing you with extra shade so that you no don’t have to use your air conditioner to cool your house as much. Because of this added benefit, it might be wise to consider which area of your house might benefit from the most shade.
2. Retractable or Stationary… or Both?
The next important factor to consider when making the decision to install an awning is to figure out whether you would like a stationary or a retractable awning. Both have many benefits, but it’s important to know how each functions and how each can add value to your home. Stationary awnings will always stay in the same place and will therefore be a permanent addition to your home. Retractable awnings, on the other hand, can be extended or retracted depending on weather conditions or preference.
If you can’t make up your mind about whether you would like a retractable or stationary awning, there are other options that can provide you with the best of both worlds. One of these options is to invest in a bioclimatic pergola. Like a stationary awning, it is a permanent fixture. But like the retractable awning, with just the push of a button you can change the angle of the aluminum blades to control the amount of sunlight you would like to let in. Or, you can invest in an accordion canvas pergola. With a fixed structure, you can decide when you’d like to retract the accordion canvas either through a manual or motorized mode.
3. Quality
One of the most important things to consider when making the choice to invest in an awning is the quality of the awning. Price certainly plays a big role, but one thing to keep in mind is: the better the quality, the longer the awning’s lifespan. There are a couple of factors that come into play when it comes to an awning’s durability and quality. These factors are awning structure/frame and fabric. Aluminum frames tend to provide more support and last longer than wooden frames. Therefore, if you live in an area in which there are a lot of strong winds or inclement weather, an aluminum frame would be the better option. As for fabric, it’s generally best to choose one that is waterproof, will protect you from UV rays, won’t fade, and is easy to clean.
If you are considering investing in an awning and would like to know the best options for your personal situation, don’t hesitate to contact an expert. They will determine the best option for your needs, provide you will in-depth information, as well as a free estimate.
