A nice afternoon on the patio could easily be spoiled by harsh weather elements. So why not enjoy the outdoors in comfort? A patio awning could protect against harsh sun, passing rain or drizzles, excess wind and the like. This is why it is wise to invest in a good patio awning. Not only is an awning a protective element for you, it keeps your outdoor patio furniture safe from sun or water damage too. In addition to all these, patio awnings are an easy way to give your patio a nice new look.
Advantages
Did you know that a patio awning is also a plus for the room directly adjacent to the patio? By having a patio awning, the room is automatically shielded from excess sunlight. This translates into several off-the-books advantages. First, that room will be a lot cooler in the summer because there will be less direct sunlight. This means that your children and pets can now play in cool comfort and gives a nice place to relax when one tires of the patio. Also, less sun damage for your curtains and furniture because of the elimination of direct sunlight. You will be spared the pain of watching good curtains fade long before their time. Another advantage is the creation of extra space in your house. Did you know that some awnings come with screens that can be dropped to create a kind of outdoor room? If you choose to purchase such a screen, you will find that the patio will be even more comfortable because such screens can keep pesky bugs out.
Types of awnings
Awnings come in three main types:
Fixed awnings: The frames are static; however, the fabric may be retractable by hand.
Manually operated awnings: These awnings can be retracted by hand using a crank or a rope-and-pulley system. This also applies to electronically retractable awnings which must be controlled by the owner e.g. by remote control
Automated awnings: These have sensors to automatically retract when the weather suits it or extend is the weather calls for it.
One can choose whichever will suit your needs best.
One should also consider the materials that the awning is made from depending on the functionality, cost and appearance.
The frames may be made of alluminium, steel, iron, wood or other revolutionary materials with increased strength.
Materials such as canvas, cotton, treated polyester and the like are stretched over these frames.
Awnings can also come with added features to make your outdoor experience much better. These include:
Lighting: This is mainly to allow for night time use of the patio. They can also set a mood or accentuate certain interesting features on your patio.
Remote controlling of the awning for easy retraction and extension. Sensors to control automatic retraction of the awning. Drop screens to shield one from fog or rain as well as keeping pests and insects out.
Before buying an awning, you should ensure that the awning has been tested for its wind resistance and the ability of the awning to bear the weight of snow if you are in an area where it snows.
Awnings are a good investment for your patio.