Retractable awnings enable homeowners to add shade or sunlight to a living space, so the indoor environment is cooled or heated more naturally. For example, if you use the awnings over a patio to shade it, you can keep the sun from entering the home’s interior as well. As a result, you save on the cost of cooling the home in the summertime. The same holds true for the winter months. When you retract the awning, more light streams through the home, thereby making it less expensive to heat.
An Extended Living Area
Awnings also extend your living area when they are installed over a patio or balcony. The same holds true for commercial establishments. When you include a retractable awning outside a restaurant, for instance, you add to the number of customers you can serve. Retractable awnings transform an outdoor space so it is more functional. Plus, the installation is affordable.
Another nice feature about a retractable awning is that it can be used to advertise by retailers or restaurateurs. The awning can double as an advertising sign, with the inclusion of a company’s name, logo, brand graphics or phone number on the banner-type shade.
Natural Climate Control
Retractable awnings, also referred to as folding arm awnings, offer the homeowner or business operator natural climate control as well as protection from extremes in temperatures and harmful UV rays. You can select from a large selection of colours or stripes to support your home’s décor.
A folding arm awning is made to be operated easily, and can be opened with a crank handle or motor. Homeowners generally like awnings that can be opened and closed with a motor, as they only need to turn on a switch or use a remote control. You can also include rain, sun or wind sensors and timers to make the awning even easier to use.
Awning Designs
Awnings are available that feature a retractable arm or box system design. Some awnings come with a spiral semi-box system operation. Regardless of the awning you choose, the concept still remains the same.
Before you purchase an awning, you need to ask yourself the following questions:
- Where will the awning be placed? Will it be over a door, a deck or a patio area? Will the location fulfil the need for shade?
- How will the awning be mounted? The mount affects the pitch of the awning as well as its height. Therefore, you have to decide if you want to affix the accessory to an eave under a soffit or to the roof above the gutter.
- Is motorisation a better option than a manual installation? Today, you may want to steer toward a motorised awning, as you can control the operation with a smartphone app.
Check the warranty or guarantee for the product as well. Checking on this aspect can become confusing, especially if the components come with different warranties.
Once you have answered these questions, ask about the lead time. Make sure the installation is done at a convenient time – one that will make it as easy for the installers as it will for you.
