The addition of a retractable awning is an easy choice for almost any home. The additional shade, privacy, weather protection, and the ability to customize it to fit any occasion are only the immediate benefits.
The potential savings on energy costs essentially makes the retractable awnings pay for themselves, and it can be tailored to fit almost any area of any home to fit any lifestyle.
Cutting Energy Costs
Homeowners should consider where the awning will have the most positive effects. Over a deck or porch is the obvious choice, but smaller awnings may also be fitted on the side of the house that receives the most sunlight, reducing the home’s heat gain from sun exposure.
The materials of the awning need to be water-resistant, and some retractable awnings can be fitted with weather sensors, which will automatically retract them during heavy storms or snow.
Style and Options
There are countless styles of retractable awnings, and homeowners can custom-tailor their awnings to match their home’s décor. Awnings are produced in a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, canvas, or simple fabric. Homes in more changeable climates may need more durable materials, but retractable awnings are generally hardy and not easily damaged.
Retractable awnings can be manual or automatic. Manually retracted awnings typically have hand cranks, removable hand braces, or pull string retraction mechanisms, similar to interior window blinds.
Motorized systems usually feature a switch to fully extend and retract the awning, or a dial to control how far the awning extends. Motorized retractable awnings provide homeowners the additional options of weather and wind sensors, and they can be programmed to react to certain weather situations.