An awning refers to an architectural fabric projection that normally extends just like the roof area. They are usually installed over a door, a deck, or even a window. While some individuals prefer installing awnings as outdoor patios, others install them to act as barriers to bad weather including the scorching sun and devastating winds. These home beautifiers are available in various designs, colours, and models to suit the needs of every person. Most awnings are made of either canvas or aluminium.
If you wish to install an these structures for your home, it is good to choose one which fits your compound. Described below are various types of awnings from which you may choose one for your home.
Fixed awnings
They are ideal for windows, carports, patios, balconies, decks and entryways because of their fixed locations. They can either be concave, convex or the traditional straight-top and can easily be customized to fit a window’s or door’s shape plus bump outs.
Apart from minimal maintenance associated with these type, they also offer an ample space for homeowners to exercise their creativity in colour, design and shape.
Freestanding Awnings
They are referred by many as the portable or unattached. They are featured by a fabric stretched onto a frame and attached to two poles on either end. They are not very different from canopies only that canopies have four stands. These portable ones are much similar to the extended shades.
Retractable Awnings
With retractable types, you can easily roll them up or fold them when not in use. They can either be manual or motorized. For the motorized retractable ones, with a push of a button, the cover sprouts up while for the manual ones you have to manually install them.
They are user-friendly and very easy to uninstall. Remote controlled ones utilize wind and sun sensors that enable opening and closing of these awnings from inside and outside. It further, allows the awnings to auto-retract when no one is at home. However, motorized retractable awnings may require frequent maintenance due to their moving parts.
Installation Process
While their installation can be a DIY project, they can also be installed by professionals. If you would like to install yourself, you need to equip yourself with a screwdriver; a hammer as well as an assistant.
You have to prepare the site for installation, and then you fix the brackets. When done with that, you can now join the arms and install the awning frame, and finally you place the roofing.
Uninstalling
To uninstall them you just need the same tools as used in the installation process. To start, you have to remove the arms and screws while bracing the permanent one. Remember to do this carefully and you must have an assistant. Lastly, you remove the roofing.
Regardless of the type of your awning, proper maintenance which involves cleaning and repairing the awning is vital. If you are not comfortable fixing and installing the awning yourself, solicit help from a professional. Dirt may collect in hollows and when it rains, the dirt mixes with rainwater. This may compromise their longevity. Therefore, maintaining your awning boosts its life span. Actually, you can install and maintain your awning yourself.