How to Choose the Right Type of Awning for House

Awnings are a great way to make magic in your outdoor areas. They provide shade in the hot and humid months, protecting you from UV rays and providing a great outdoor entertaining area.

And they’re simply luxurious. But there are many essential factors to consider when selecting quality awnings, from awning types to space pragmatics, budget, and energy efficiency questions.

This article will run through all of them so that you will have a better idea of picking the correct type of awning for your house.

Assessment of Space and Needs

Define Your Purpose

The first step is to assess your reasons for considering an awning, whether for shade, aesthetics, energy efficiency, or all of the above. This might seem like a frivolous exercise, but it’s a way of clarity that will guide your purchasing decisions.

Measuring Your Space

Accurate space measurements are fundamental, as this will decide where the shade awnings go and give you a sharper idea of the installation process.

To do it accurately, get some measuring tape and stretch it across the outdoor living space where you intend to install your awnings. Treat the gutters as if not there, as you can fix the shade system to them using brackets.

Exploring Awning Types

Retractable Awnings

The motorized retractable awning is on the up and up, as its folding arm protects its components from the sunlight, rain, and other unavoidable precipitous happenings with the touch of a remote control or smartphone.

Manually operated retractable awnings provide the same great functions, except you have to extend and retract them yourself. But they both provide shade, look great, and optimize outdoor space.

Fixed Awnings

Their name is suggestive of their nature. They stay in one place and are designed in a permanent capacity.

They are great for residential and commercial spaces, as there is a vast array of patterns, colors, and customizable options (link to The Top Features to Look for in Sunsetter Retractable Awnings).

Freestanding Awnings

As their name suggests, freestanding awnings have the benefit of not having to be wall-mounted by professionals.

Instead, they are fixed into your patio space or appropriate outdoor area and stand freely there. Their construction tends to be sturdy so they can stand in bigger spaces such as lawns, restaurants, and even pools.

Material and Style Selection

One of the key considerations should be your awning fabric, as this affects aesthetics and functionality.

Also, you need the best materials for maximum sun protection, such as metal and polycarbonate, which have excellent UV protection properties. This is a decision unique to your property’s location. For instance, if you live in the harsh Florida sun, you will need the best shade systems.

Awning Styles

Awning styles are equally important as awning fabric because their shapes and context contribute significantly to curb appeal. Here are a few to get your brain ticking.

Traditional

The traditional patio awning is downward-slanting and has side panels and ends. Traditional awnings can be retractable or fixed and are greatly complemented by the large areas they can cover without compromising on the beautiful sun when you desire it or shelter when you need it.

Dome

A dome awning is shaped like… well, a dome. But it is usually not for great outdoor living spaces. They are designed for small entryways and windows and protect from all angles.

It has a quarter-sphere shape, and this generates protection from the sun. It’s also particularly effective against rain, which tends to run off efficiently and expediently due to its shape.

Concave

The concave or convex design is also used for windows and small entryways, which is similar to traditional door awnings and is never retractable due to its curved front panel that extends outwards or inwards. Functionally, it has more in common with the dome style.

Budget and Installation Considerations

To choose awnings is to undergo a project that can get pricey if, like the strong wind, the considerations aren’t controlled.

So, set a budget and then consider all the costs associated with different awning types, including installation if necessary. Some companies offer payment plan options, which can help bring the price down to a bite-sized amount.

Professional Installation

Some awnings are easier to deal with than others, but this depends on the complexity of the task, the awning itself, and the space you have to work with.

It’s wise to get a professional installation. While this will incur additional labor costs, ensuring proper, long-term functionality in your awning is the best way.

Energy Efficiency and Maintenance

Not only do awnings protect your property, plants, and home from inclement weather conditions such as strong wind, sun, and rain, but they also can make your house more energy efficient.

It is reported that patio awnings decrease solar heat gain for south-facing windows and up to 75% for west-facers. Also, they can reduce your air conditioning units by 20%, saving money, particularly during the summer months. Patio awnings lessen the need for energy-consuming products such as these.

Maintenance Requirements

Different maintenance levels will be required depending on what window awnings you get. A motorized retractable awning, for instance, will need less because its cassette awning protects it from precipitation, dirt, and debris—particularly full-cassette retractable awnings. Fixed awnings are a different matter, naturally.

It’s essential to regularly inspect, clean, and repair your awnings to ensure their longevity. You can do it by wetting the fabric with a sponge and mild solution or with the garden hose for coarse dirt. If you have stubborn dirt on your outdoor blinds, you can even power-wash them.

The Verdict: Enhance Your Own with the Best Awning Ever

When choosing an awning, it’s important to consider space first, followed by budgeting, and then move on to the voracious options, from the motorized retractable roof to the freestanding awnings. Remember to measure your space and consult professionals when needed accurately.

Awnings are an aesthetic benefit as well as a pragmatic one. Ergo, they look nice and optimize the outdoor area in question. But it’s vital to find the perfect balance between the two to make an informed purchase that will spice up your outdoor living and curb appeal.

If you want further expert tips on managing, optimizing, and beautifying your outdoor space, look no further than our team. We’ve been on the ball for a long time and know a thing or two about all three subjects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any permits required for installing house awnings?

Unfortunately, this can’t be answered in a black-and-white fashion. Generally, permits are needed before outdoor awnings are installed, but it differs from state to state. In order to know which permit you need and how it all works, you can study your area’s building codes and regulations.

Can I install a retractable awning on my own, or do I need professional help?

Professional help is the best way to go, as installing a retractable awning is not fit for DIY. This is due to the motorized elements, which require deft, experienced hands. Also, the retractable awnings tend to weigh a lot.

What is the typical lifespan of a house awning?

It depends on what type of awning you have and how well you maintain and care for it, but it can range from 5-10 years. Slick and new retractable awnings can last as long as 20+ years.

Do house awnings come with warranties?

Yes, many companies offer warranties, depending on the company and their unique requirements and deals. Shop around to find the warranty of your preference.

When it comes to home warranties, though, the answer is generally no. Home warranties don’t cover awnings and shade structures as a whole. Nor do they support structural enterprises such as windows and walls.

Can I customize the color and design of my house awning?

Yes, but there are elements to be aware of when it comes to color and design. Firstly, you don’t want to pick a color that clashes with your house or makes it look weird.

Equally, you want the awning to complement your house design. Stay away from red awnings if your house is green, for instance. Differently, a white awning can make a red house pop.