What Are Awnings: You’re Basic Guide

The primary purpose of awnings is to provide shade from the blazing heat of the sun, as well as protect windows and doors from the harsh elements such as rain, snow, wind, and even hail. Yet whenever we think of items, also known as overhangs, we usually think of establishments and businesses. Indeed, these attachments are often found resting just above the doors and windows of hotels, restaurants, and other similar premises.

 

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Why Do You Need It

But then, many of today’s homeowners are now discovering the importance of installing awnings in their humble abodes’ exterior and façade. Because they are capable of blocking out sunlight, the heat accumulating inside is minimized when they are attached above the windows of homes. That way, families no longer have to use air conditioning units and other cooling appliances that make use of electricity. Thus, not only they significantly impact the environment; they also save a lot of money as well.

Another thing that makes these installations important is that they are effective in avoiding fading, which occurs in household items, upholstery, flooring, and carpeting whenever they are directly impacted by the sun’s rays. When fading happens, the aesthetic appeal of the material found in carpets, sofas, and other objects near the windows of homes is reduced. With awnings, homeowners are no longer required to purchase and replace these home interior items that have been faded out due to sunlight.

The Types You Should Know

Apart from the benefits, these features also come in different types. The first one, and probably the most popular, is the canvas or fabric type. Not only are such items functional, but they also provide a decorative touch for the home. Available in all door and window types, these can also be custom-made. Not only the frames can be modified, but also the canvas that provides the shade: they come in different color combinations and designs that would surely complement the hues of the exterior walls of homes. In terms of design, they may be either arching or flat and of a certain angle. In terms of functionality, they may be either fixed or retractable when not in used.

While canvas awning’s fabric or material used for covering can be easily changed, there are certain considerations for installing this type. Families may benefit from getting this type if they live in areas experiencing fair weather conditions almost all year. However, families who live in areas where the four seasons occur every year may not find these suitable for their homes, as ice and snow accumulating on top of the canvas may cause it to be ripped apart due to the added weight. Another consideration is to either go for awnings that have either open or closed-in sides. The latter type of is suitable for homes resting in areas with seasonal climate, adding extra protection from snow, wind and other elements.

Another type of awning that could serve as alternatives for the canvas type is the one that is made of metal or aluminum. More functional than decorative, this type is durable enough to withstand snow and wind. Like the canvas type, they can be either open or enclosed on their sides, and can be either fixed or retractable. The latter option, however, is not mostly available as metal or aluminum overhangs being sold are stationary.

Other types of awning that can be installed on the exterior of homes include spear and dome awning. These are usually suitable for very specific types of houses; spear awning, for instance, are best for stone houses. Dome awning, while mostly found in commercial establishments can also be perfect additions to homes because of their designs.