Sitting on your patio or in your backyard with your family or friends catching up on life stories is the rest we sometimes want to enjoy. The relaxation you get is one that you will want to repeat. However, when the sun is high or setting, the blazing heat of the sun’s rays most likely drives you to seek shade. Are you planning to buy an awning that will shade you from the sunlight’s piercing brightness and heat?
By reading this article, it means that you want to act on your plan and wish to know how to select the awnings that will best fit your needs. The below tips give you four things you will want to consider when buying outdoor covers.
Size of the Awning
The location you want to install the awning will direct you on the size and design of the outdoor canvas. Do you wish it for your door, window, or garden setting? Measure out this space. These measurements give the size of the cover, big or small, that will fit into your desired area.
The direction of your house features such as the window, door, patio, and backyard affect the size of the awning you select. For homes with features that face the east and west direction, vertical covers with a 10-foot extension will provide the needed shade. Does your home face a north and south direction? Wide awnings with a 12 or 13-foot overhang. These wide awnings will protect you during the summer when the sun’s angle is high. During the winter, they protect from the sun when the angle of the sun is low.
Quality of the Awning
For outdoor awnings, the weather of the area you live in affects the durability of the awning you install. Signs of wear and tear on the awning can be frustrating.
The quality of a cover is in its fabric. The store’s salesperson will give you a description of the materials used to manufacture the awning, its durability, and whether it is easy to clean. This checklist shows a few pointers on finding quality awnings.
- Fire Resistant–The awning should have the minimum fire standards set by the state in your area.
- Wind Resistant – if you live in a place with strong winds, it’s advisable to get awnings that will not easily damage because of high winds. The article ‘Choosing Outdoor Awnings Built for Wind Resistance’ provides you with the guidance you need.
- UV Resistance–Experts recommend we avoid overexposing ourselves to the sun’s UV rays, as it might lead to hazardous skin issues. Since you desire to sit outdoors for extended periods, buy fabric that blocks off nearly 94% of the rays.
Color of the Awning
Keep in mind that patio and backyard awnings lend a hand in extending your home space. It is a décor item that can match or complement the colors of your home. Dark color awnings trap heat underneath them. Lighter-colored covers reflect the sunlight, creating cool spaces beneath them.
Your Budget
In the end, what directly affects the awning you select is its cost? Identify how much money you want to spend on its purchase. Visit different stores to buy awnings that fit within your budget.
Final Shady Thought
The best way to provide shade to your outdoor space is to use awnings. Not only do they provide needed shade, but artistic beauty to your home. They are economical because they reduce how often you need to use your air conditioner. Once you install your awning in place, relax and enjoy the outdoors with your friends and family.
