Things to consider before buying an awning
By Dan Galen
Retractable – Retractable awnings come in two basic categories, manual, or motorized. Manual retractable awnings can be a great choice for a household on a limited budget, with the need to choose when to have the awning retracted and out of sight, or deployed and providing shade on a hot summer day, while requiring minor maintenance. Motorized retractable awnings can be the ideal awning for someone of limited strength, the elderly, or someone with a disability, but with the same needs of a retractable awning. Retractable awnings require some minor maintenance such as occasional lubrication, and the removal of leaves that may get caught in the folds.
Fixed – Fixed awnings are typically made of metal, usually aluminum, but can also, be made of wood, or thick, hard, vinyl. Fixed awnings can be used for shade or to keep rain and snow away from an entry way. Fixed metal awnings are lower maintenance than retractable awnings, and can withstand stronger winds. Fixed metal awnings are usually installed over windows and doors, more so than fabric awnings.
Fabric awning vs Metal awning - There are several significant differences between canvas awnings and aluminum awnings, the two most common materials used to make awnings. Fabric awnings have more insulating properties than a bare metal awning. However, the color on a fabric awning may fade faster than on a metal awning, and they may fray or tear. Metal awnings won’t fray, but they heat up in the sun, and radiate heat so the shade will not be as cool as the shade provided by a fabric awning. For those looking to get the benefits of a metal awning, with a cooler shade than bare metal should consider a fixed patio awning, or patio cover (a.k.a. porch awning). This usually consists of a slab of Styrofoam-like insulation sandwiched between to sheets of metal.
That’s it for now. Consider the benefits of each type before buying your awning and you’ll have it made in the shade!
Dan Galen is an author and owner of JustRightAwnings.com To learn more about awnings please visit the site.
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