Installing awnings at the door, windows, backyard, or porch is a smart move that not only provides shade but also elevates the aesthetics of your home. Whether it’s a hot summer afternoon or a rainy monsoon day, they will more likely let you enjoy outdoor events, provide shade, and help in lowering the home temperature. Nowadays, you can find them equipped with motors for ease of use, sensors to detect extreme weather conditions, and most important of all, replacement and repair warranties if anything goes faulty. Without further ado, here are the things you need to know if you want your awning installation to go off effortlessly.

The Material Used

Depending on the region you live in, temperature and weather conditions can vary. So, choosing a material that can withstand the weather changes is best. For example, if your home windows are made out of wood, harsh weather conditions like rainfall or high temperatures can cause damage. Installing metal awnings under these conditions will save windows from damage. Fabric awnings are also available that come with a wider choice of colors and designs. However, fabric awnings require more maintenance when compared to those with metal frames. The quality of the material used should also be inspected as a low-quality fabric or a poorly finished metal frame can easily be damaged with use over time. Furthermore, make sure you know their maintenance techniques. Searching over the internet or asking the vendor where you bought the awnings from is a good way to understand how to maintain them.

Decide on the Size

Finalize the places where you want to install your awnings to get an idea of whether you will be going for one that’s large enough for weather protection, or install small ones that have a decorative effect. After you have decided on the size, confirm it with your local government or the neighborhood for implementing guidelines for awning installation. These regulations are based on size, height, shape, and color. If there are issues with the size of the awning, an alternate option of compact awnings can resolve the size regulations problem. The neighborhood you live in can impose these regulations, so make sure you have the relevant information about its installation beforehand. Taking these steps is necessary to avoid a situation that could make you completely remove the installed awning, or make changes to it.

Types of Awnings

In the market, you can find several types of awnings with different features that not only fulfill their purpose but are also technologically advanced enough to be easily operated. Here are some of their types and features to help you understand the ones that would work the best for you.

• Retractable awnings are great at stopping the heat coming into rooms on hot summer days and can be retracted during the winter season to let the sun into your home. Most of this type are used in areas with a cold climate throughout the year. They come with motors and remote controls to easily fold or expand the awning.
• Patio awnings can be installed outdoors and have a wall-mounted design that is fixed in the wall to provide constant shade on your porch, or your backyard.
• Conservatory awnings can be added to an existing roof structure to elevate its beauty and provide outdoor protection from sun rays and harsh weather.
• Vertical awnings are simply a technologically sophisticated version of your regular window blinds. They are retractable and use a waterproof fabric for protection, and these can be scheduled to open and close during the set hours, throughout the day.

These awnings come with motors, sensors, and switches. For example, a retractable window awning can automatically extend itself up by detecting sunrays through the installed sensor. So, always do your best before you install an awning.

Choose your Style

There are a variety of different styles like dome style, double bar standard, quarter barrel, waterfall style, and many more to choose from. Make sure that the styles match your home’s outdoor settings and home decor. Moreover, pick a UV reflecting color for your awnings that will surely keep the heat and harmful rays at bay.

Most of the heat entering our home is through the windows. Installing awnings can easily reduce the amount of heat that comes in, and also cut down on electricity bills as the temperature remains comparatively lower when compared to traditional window drapes. Last but not the least, installing these coverings on your own is not a good decision to make. Always hire an awning installation expert to securely fix them in place to avoid any accidents from happening in the first place.