Nobody likes to take scorching sunlight during the summer season. So, what should you do if you still want to enjoy outdoors? In this case, you will come across something called awning that prevents the sunlight from falling on your windows and door. These awnings make sure that your home is not heated due to the sun so that you don’t need to use air conditioners much frequently and save electricity bills. Not to mention, they can preserve your carpets and furniture from fading in sunlight.
In this article, we will provide you with details of the different types of awnings. Read until the end if you are looking to buy them and want to make an informed choice.
Types of Awnings
Many types of awnings are available to be used for decks and patios. In this section, you will come to know the best varieties and their usages.
- Freestanding
Primarily three types of portable or freestanding awning options are there to choose from, such as canopy, freestanding, and umbrella. The best part of these portable awnings is that you can move them around your deck.
You can have two umbrellas on the patio to enhance the look of your house and enjoy dining in the sun at the same time. Keep in mind that umbrella awning is an expensive deck covering option. If you have a limited budget, then do not go for more than three umbrellas, or you can choose canopy.
- Wall-Mounted
As the name suggests, this awning is fixed at the wall for constant shelter. Although not every time, they can also come fitted with additional support poles at the extension end, which makes them sturdy. If you are looking for permanent shelter for the patio or deck, then this type will not let you down.
- Retractable
If you want a retractable awning, which can be triggered by a remote control device for easy operation and offer you additional convenience, be ready to spend a bit more. The retractable awning can provide shelter, but you can also retract it when there is a strong wind, hence the name retractable.
These awnings can be operated with a hand crank manually, or you can choose the remote-operable ones. They can be used if you have family events at your place so that the sunlight will not cause any trouble or even during rain.
Parts of an awning
- Frame
It is made of galvanized steel or aluminium. You may know aluminium is lighter and does not rust, but galvanized steel is more robust. Mainly two types of frames can be found: bolted round tubing together and welded rectangular or square tubing.
- Cassette
Cassette is the part that helps to cover the motor and holds it when the awning is in the retracted state. It is also the wall-mounted part. You will come across three cassettes: open, semi, and closed or full cassette.
- Cover
It boasts of sturdy fabric material. This cover resists dust and dirt, offers protection from UV rays, and helps to retain the colour of the awning.
- Motor
The motor is the central part of a sensor-triggered awning. It is quite crucial because you have to check on its maintenance regularly. You have to make sure it is durable, not noisy, requires less maintenance.
If you love to sit outside frequently and enjoy the natural environment, then these awnings will undoubtedly be quite useful for you. You can also search on the internet to find some reputable sellers, and they will help you to choose top-notch quality awnings according to your budget. Don’t skip on checking the reviews left by the users before you finalize one though.
