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Before, people primarily install awning to get protection from the elements and the weather. However, these days, homeowners and businesses include them in their property’s architecture not only for their primary purpose but also for their unique charm and aesthetic appeal.
There are many reasons why you’d want awning for your own house or establishment, and here are some of them:
- Awnings protect the window frames from the sun, rain, and snow. It is worth noting that most window panes and frames consist of wood, and we know that this material does not respond well to environmental changes. Even with proper polish and coating, timber will deteriorate faster when exposed to the harsh weather conditions of Australia.
- If you have a patio or porch with furniture in it, you can prolong the life of the chairs and tables by protecting them from the elements.
- When it rains, you need to close your windows to keep rainwater from spraying inside your home. Doing so prevents proper air circulation inside your home. By installing an awning, you can keep your windows open during rain showers without worrying about water coming in.
- To reduce the glare coming from the sunlight when you are using the computer or watching TV, you might opt to shut the windows or roll the blinds down. On the other hand, when you have aluminum awnings, you won’t have to block natural light from illuminating the rest of the room. The outdoor fixture will reduce the glare on the monitors placed near the windows.
If you are ready to install awnings for your home or business, we recommend going through our tips below first. We will help you choose the product that you will indeed be proud of.
Where to Install your Awnings
You can install awnings in all kinds of places with various fixtures. However, before anything else, you should consider the size of your windows. It is worth noting that you can only use some styles up to a certain point. Some of the best spots to install awnings include, decks, porches, French windows, over front doors, balconies, and conservatories, among many others. Here are the steps to consider when looking at your options:
First Step: The Awnings’ Housing
One of your options is housing with arms and fabric folding into a cassette. On the other hand, if you are opting for a non-cassette housing, the arms and fabric won’t fold into a protective casing.
Second Step: Choosing the Type of Operation
You can choose either manual or electric operation. It is true that manual operation is more affordable than electric operation. However, if you prefer the ease of use, it is best to choose the electric operation.
Third Step: Deciding on the Angle
For windows facing west or east, it is recommended that the drop’s size is about 65-75% of the panels. On the other hand, if the window faces south, the drop can be about 45-60% of the panel since it would not need a lot of coverage. After all, from this direction, the sun has a higher angle. You should also consider getting side panels. While they alter the architectural feel of the aluminum awnings, they can also add coverage in a different direction.
Fourth Step: Choosing the Style of your Awnings
There are different styles of awnings, and you should select one that truly speaks your personality and lifestyle. Here are some of them:
- For small places, it is ideal to choose canopies since they offer limited projections. They can be a cost-effective option for your windows.
- There are also awnings with retractable, lateral arms. They unfold with the fabric, allowing you to achieve better coverage even with a limited angle to the canopy or a less dramatic pitch.
- Italian drop awnings are European in style, and they have two sidearms which support the covering.
- Pergola awnings sit at the higher end of the spectrum. They are fixed in place, but you can opt to design them with retractable roofs. If you wish, they can have fill sides that make them more like permanent rooms. The finished structure can include lighting, music systems, and even heating.
Fifth Step: Selecting the Materials
If you are looking for popular hardwearing options, consider metal and aluminum awnings. They can come in different colors and powder coated finishes to contrast or match your fabric. If you want something more traditional, you can opt for timber awnings. When it comes to the fabric, you should choose a material that can resist mold and color fading effectively. If you search thoroughly, you will find products that can last for a decade. The great thing about these fabrics is the fact that they are available in a range of colors. You can choose from plain or even woven jacquard patterns. What’s important is you find the material that will last for a long time.
With careful planning, you will be able to choose an awning that you will be proud to own.
