Your home looks bare without an awning. Awnings are exterior covering that can make your house look good and provide some benefits.
If you are planning to add this fixture to your house, make sure to find a company that offers custom awnings. It will make sure that your home will get all the benefits from an awning.
Below are some of the advantages of having this fixture in your house’s exterior.
It lowers your energy consumption
When your home’s temperature becomes uncomfortably warm, your next move will be to lower the temperature of your air-conditioning unit. It could raise your energy bill, especially during summer.
Installing an awning can block the direct sunlight getting into your house, minimizing the heat inside your home. Awnings can lessen 77 percent of heat gain on West-facing windows and 65 percent on South-facing windows. Moreover, installing awnings that can cover your outdoor air-conditioning units will help it run easier on hot seasons.
Of course, the heat of the sun is useful during cold months, so installing a retractable awning is the best option.
It gives you an extra outdoor space
If you have a porch, installing an awning can turn it into an extra living space. It is beneficial during warm months where you can enjoy outdoor gatherings away from the sun. It will also allow your kids to play outside and breathe fresh air instead of breathing the air from your AC all day long.
It keeps your stuff from harmful UV rays
UV damage goes unnoticed until you compare your exposed stuff to another piece that is not. The curtains, flooring, wallpapers, and furniture that are regularly exposed to direct sunlight will fade over time.
Installing awnings over your window could protect the stuff around your house where UV rays hit.
It makes your home more attractive
Adding a well-designed awning can increase your home’s curb appeal, making your home look more inviting. Moreover, a beautiful awning can add value to your home if you decide to put it on the market.
Things to consider when choosing the right awning
Material
Awnings are commonly made from aluminium or outdoor fabrics. These materials require different maintenance levels and look different depending on the type of home it will be installed.
Outdoor fabric offers different designs and colours. However, it requires more maintenance compared to aluminium. On the other hand, the sturdier aluminium awnings offer limited customisation when it comes to colours and designs.
Side panels
You may also want to consider adding panels that could help the awning provide more coverage from multiple directions if you need more shade. Panels could change the architectural look and feel of the awning.
Angle
Angle plays an essential role in the awning’s performance, but most homeowners overlook its importance.
For windows facing South, the awning should be able to drop as low as 45-60 per cent as it needs less coverage due to the sun’s angle. Meanwhile, a 65-75 per cent drop is recommended for windows facing east or west for optimal coverage.
An awning is a vital exterior fixture, especially those with windows that are facing the sun. Custom awnings can enhance the overall looks of your house.
Moreover, it will also provide you with extra comfort, lower your energy consumption, and protect your stuff from the harmful sun exposure.
