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As summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about spending time outside. BBQs, campfires, chilling by the pool, and evenings spent on the front porch or patio are favorite pastimes of the majority. As the temperature increases to sweltering, and the sun beats down, some of us are discouraged from enjoying the outdoors. Summertime can be both the worst and the best.
In This Post:
The Pros of Adding an Awning
Good Ventilation
What sets retractable awnings apart from other window coverings is their high placement. This type is usually attached permanently to an exterior wall of a home or a building.
Awnings options in terms of sizes. The biggest can extend up to 42 feet wide and can protect more than 20 feet without installing support posts, while the smallest one can extend up to 7.5 feet high.
Because of its high placement option, it provides natural light and ventilation the best way possible. This retractable roof acts as a shield against UV rays; it cuts off the light before entering the room, which is essential in reducing the air-conditioning charges and the heat within the interiors.
Contemporary Look
Using a retractable awning as a window treatment not only provides homes with an extra shade but also extends the outdoor living space without compromising beauty.
Such awning type improves the overall curb appeal of homes, thanks to its retractable design and contemporary look. Household members can open or roll up the awning as they desire and retain their house’s modern vibe.
When the awning is open, it can add function to backyards, porches, balconies, gardens, and other outdoor home extensions. When it’s closed, it still imbues a touch of class and complements the home’s exterior. Retractable awnings can also be a great asset in protecting both your skin and your furnishings.
Optimum Protection
Also, retractable awnings guarantee optimum protection. They can protect both the indoor and outdoor furnishings, especially during damp climates.
This sort of awnings allows for nearly 100 percent of viable ventilation while avoiding water from seeping into the home at the same time. It likewise prevents fabrics and furniture that have direct contact in the sun from drying out or losing their pristine look.
The sun alone can cause wood to fade or paint to chip off, while the rain can cause unsightly marks on the furniture and even leave cushions soggy and stinky. With this retractable window shade, exterior and interior house fittings can look beautiful for years.
Top-notch Quality Construction
Above all, a retractable awning boasts a weather-tight construction. It’s not like the conventional ones (i.e umbrellas and sail shades) that lose their purpose after some time.
Such a window treatment can withstand harsh weather such as wind storm and rainstorm — and the credit goes to its high-quality fabric and construction. Also, retractable deck awnings come with motorization options: wind sensors, rain sensors, timers, and remote controls.
These controls make it easier for homeowners to operate them more easily. For instance, during a wind storm, this awning can be retracted to keep it stable and protected. The non-retractable awnings, on the other hand, can be exposed to wind and be ripped off easily.
The Cons of Adding an Awning
Costly & High Maintenance
The above advantages of such a retractable window shade may mean one thing: high value. It warns interested buyers of its pricey feature and high maintenance costs. Be aware that you may eventually need to invest in maintenance to ensure your sensors continue to function properly.
HOWEVER: Spending for a high-quality awning is a lot wiser than choosing a low-cost one. Oftentimes, expensive items are worth the money.
Broken Parts/Manual Operation
Awnings with electric sensors are high maintenance. When the sensors stop functioning, there’s a need for constant replacement. If these sensors aren’t replaced on time, homeowners will have to operate the awning manually. The manual retraction lever should also be used in the instance of power shortages.
HOWEVER: Power outage doesn’t happen every day. Also, replacing broken electric sensors reaps a wealth of benefits in return.
Limited Placement Options
Another drawback of this awning type is the limited placement options. A retractable one is unsafe for homes located in high traffic areas.
When a wind storm hits the city and a poor-quality awning is purchased, the window shade can only get destroyed; cause damages; or worse harm other people’s lives.
HOWEVER: Most homes have an exterior wall and not all homes are located in high traffic areas.
Commercial awnings are usually installed in restaurants, cafes, and fast-food eateries. The purpose of this is to protect the outdoor dining area from the sun and the rain.However, this useful window shade can also add value to everyone’s homes. It offers a transformative effect: improved home’s appearance, good ventilation, optimum protection, and weathertight construction.
Final Thoughts
Despite retractable awning has some disadvantages, it’s still worth the money because of the wide-ranging benefits it offers.
