Awnings do not only make your house more aesthetic but also turn it into a more environmentally friendly residence. However, speaking of their benefits in such a short sentence does not do them justice. It is better to get a more precise and brief view into their basics.
Benefits of Installing an Awning
- Wooden windowpanes and frames are more common than metal panes and frames and as we know, wood is more susceptible to weather conditions like rain, snow and heat. The best way to protect against these conditions is installing an awning.
- Porches and patios often have furniture that is used for outdoor purposes. Problem is they fade and wear if exposed to sunlight, heat and/or rain too often. You can find awnings made especially for this purpose.
- You can make use of natural lights more without compromising other household functions like watching television. Since your window awning will restrict the light from expanding to the whole room, when kept near the window itself, you would not experience screen glare even without closing the blinds or curtains.
- You will be able to keep your windows and doors (not always) open even while it is raining. So your indoors will always experience a healthy air circulation which is quite important for maintaining a healthy household.
Types of Awning Fabrics
Awning comes in many shapes and colours but the most important factor to consider before actually purchasing one is the fabric type. Let us take a look at the types available in the market.
Cotton Canvas: This awning fabric is more classical than contemporary. While they are more environmentally friendly than other fabrics, these canvases are more susceptible to warmth and wetness. They often require careful handling and mending. However, cotton canvas fabrics can be made sturdier and more enduring by blending them with polyester or acrylic.
Polyester Material: Polyester-based fabrics are by far the most popular fabric type for awning, especially if it is for outdoor purposes. There are many variations available in this category. Acrylic-coated polyester fabric is extremely stretch resistant and hardly ever incurs leaks. Since they are very weatherproof, acrylic-based polyester fabrics are good for using in rainy regions. Other than that, there is vinyl-laminated polyester fabric which is mildew and UV resistant and good for using in humid areas.
Other Factors to Consider
Other than fabric itself, there are other important decisive factors that you need to consider before purchasing and installing an awning.
Direction: If the awning is for windows and/or doors, you need to consider the way they are facing. For instance, if a window is east/west facing then the drop size should be around 70% and no more than 75%. Direction ensures the best efficiency.
Fixed or Retractable: A retractable awning can be pulled back and rolled up and again stretched back as far as the maximum limit whenever necessary. They are electrically controlled and easy to handle. However, they are often not that sturdy so when used in a harsh climate, it is best to install weather sensors into the system as well. A fixed or freestanding awning is attached and held into place with a frame and multiple stands and cannot be retracted.
Size: When it comes to awnings, bigger usually means better as long as that does not interfere with efficiency.