Creating a paradise away from the city

Awnings are sheets of canvas or any other material that are usually stretched on a frame. They are used to keep the sun or rain off a shop window or from the doorway.

Uses of awnings

Protection

They are used to protect from the glare of the sun, extreme winds or to keep rain from splashing into the inside of the house.

Privacy

Awnings provide just a bit of cover especially on spa and shop windows to enhance privacy.

Control temperatures

Since they block the glare of the sun, they reduce temperatures in the building and consequently cut down the energy that could be used for air conditioning.

Allergen protection

They are also used as screens especially in patios.

Types of awnings

Retractable awnings

Retractable awnings are suspended manually and are easily installed and removed when need be. They do not require as much labour or heavy construction to put up and are easily adjustable depending on the specific needs.

Fixed awnings

These kinds of awnings are more or less permanent structures and are usually put up during construction of the given structure. These ones include window awnings and porch awnings.

Window awnings

These ones come in both traditional and contemporary styles. Traditional style awnings give more protection from the sun as they have sides. These ones are best suited for windows that face east and west. These types of awnings look ideal for modern homes.

Porch awnings

These awnings provide privacy and protection around your porch. Window awnings can be incorporated into this particular awning to bring out a sense of decoration. They can be rolled up and down when needed using the rope and pulley system.

Differences between retractable awnings and fixed awnings

Flexibility

It is easy to change the position of a retractable awning since it is not a permanent structure. You can place it in different positions to cater for the different weather conditions. On the other hand, fixed awnings cannot be moved around.

Variety of use

It is possible to use retractable awnings in place of canopies when need be. Fixed awnings are strictly limited to the purpose they are made for.

Installation

Fixed awnings need heavy construction to put up and are usually made during construction. Retractable awnings, on the other hand, are easy to install. They are simply fitted onto structures at specific points.

Awnings are usually more or less the same and it is easy to get confused when trying to choose which one to buy. The best way to choose a quality awning is by checking on the warranty it comes with. Apparently, the more costly an awning is the better its quality.