Awnings are an excellent addition to any home or business. Not only do they provide shade and protection from the elements, but they can also add aesthetic appeal. Awnings are a great option for those with fine taste in exterior decoration and for those looking to upgrade their homes appeal. Together with their beauty and comfort, awnings are known for their durability. With so many styles and types of awnings to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to select the right one. This guide breaks down the main categories of awnings, the various styles within each type, and the key benefits awnings can provide.
Different Types of Awnings
There are several different types of awnings available in the market. But the following four stand out in terms of their aesthetical value and durability.
Automatic Awnings
Automatic awnings are retractable, manually operated awning perfect for shielding your home from harmful UV rays. Their angle of projection also allows for maximum ventilation. The two main subtypes of automatic awnings are cassette and open roller. Cassette awnings feature a cover that is stored inside a metal box when retracted. While Open roller awnings have an exposed roller when retracted. The fabric simply wraps around the roller tube. While not as protected as cassette awnings, open roller styles take up less space and are more affordable.
Zip Screen Awnings
Zip screen awnings are a modern take on traditional roll-down canvas awnings. As the name implies, they feature a zippered fabric screen that allows you to enclose an outdoor space. When rolled down, the screened area becomes a bug-free outdoor room. There are many applications for Zip Screen Awnings as they will both protect and enclose many different types of outdoor areas. Patio Enclosures fully enclose a patio area to expand living space. Window screens are individual screens that can cover single or multiple windows. Zip Screens as by far becoming the awning of choice for alfresco areas.
Straight Drop Awnings
Also referred to as fixed or stationary awnings, straight drop awnings are basically an external roller blind. They provide constant shade and shelter day and night. Various styles of straight-drop awnings include entryway awnings, window awnings, and patio covers. Entryway awnings are ideal for above front and back doors. They provide shelter when coming and going. Window awnings are installed above windows to block direct sun and reduce heat again. Patio covers cover an entire outdoor seating area for uninterrupted shade.
Folding Arm Awnings
Folding arm awnings offer the versatility of either having a pergola, or having it fully retracted. The arms can be opened to any desired angle to block the sun. When not needed, the arms fold compactly against the wall. Types of folding arm awnings include patio awnings that cover outdoor seating areas and retract against the home. Deck awnings are ideal for second-story decks, balconies, and porches. Window awnings fold away from windows and doors when stored. The key features of folding arm awnings are adjustability where arms can be positioned at different angles as needed.
Various Styles of Awnings
Awnings have evolved from retro 60’s funky style to contemporary aesthetically pleasing varieties. The style of the awnings will determine the overall looks of your exterior decor. Following are the different styles of awnings.
Traditional Awnings
Traditional awnings are characterized by their classic appearance, often featuring striped or solid fabrics. These are commonly seen in cafes, restaurants, and storefronts, providing a timeless and elegant look. The traditional style appeals to those who prefer a refined and beautiful aesthetic for their spaces.
Modern Awnings
On the other end of the side, modern awnings showcase sleek lines, minimalist designs, and contemporary materials. These awnings are perfect for spaces with a more modern or industrial vibe. With a focus on clean aesthetics, modern awnings often use materials like metal and glass to create a visually appealing and functional addition to a building.
Canopy Awnings
Canopy awnings are larger coverings that extend further from the building, providing a substantial shaded area. These are commonly used in commercial settings such as hotels, resorts, and outdoor event spaces. Canopy awnings come in various shapes and styles, allowing for creativity in design and functionality.
Practical Advantages of Awnings
Using awnings in your office or home comes with a host of benefits. In fact the larger-than-life benefits of awnings are the primary reason for their popularity around the globe. Following are the benefits of awnings.
Energy Efficiency
Awnings contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the heat entering a building. By providing shade to windows and doors, they help regulate indoor temperatures, leading to decreased reliance on air conditioning. This, in turn, translates to energy savings and a lower environmental impact.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
The diverse styles of awnings contribute significantly to the curb appeal of residential and commercial properties. A well-chosen awning complements the architecture of the building, creating an inviting and aesthetically pleasing exterior. This enhancement can positively impact property value and attract attention.
Protection from the Elements
Awnings act as protective barriers against harsh weather conditions such as rain and direct sunlight. This not only ensures the longevity of furniture and fixtures in outdoor spaces but also provides a comfortable environment for individuals using these areas.
Expansion of Living Spaces
Outdoor spaces become more usable and enjoyable with the addition of awnings. Whether it’s a patio, deck, or garden, awnings create shaded retreats that can be utilized for various activities. This expansion of living spaces is especially valuable for homeowners looking to make the most of their property.
Conclusion
With versatile functionality and contemporary style options, awnings are an excellent investment that can benefit your home or business in many ways. A suitable awning tailored to your needs can help reduce energy consumption, protect furnishings from damage, expand outdoor living spaces, and simply add design flair. Take time to explore the various awning types and solutions to find one that enhances your property how you want.
Elite Window Furnishings specialises in various kinds of window treatment solutions for both homes and offices. All the types of Awnings are available with us that will leash new life to your decor that too at very affordable prices. Contact us today to know more about awnings and any other type of outdoor window treatments.