Canvas Awnings

Fixed or Retractable - Which is Best?

Canvas awnings have become popular with homeowners for not only helping to reduce cooling costs in summer, but also for extending the usability of the area under the awning. Summer heat can make enjoying a deck or patio unbearable in some areas of the country.

Professionally installed awnings can add value to the home and make those peak summer days more enjoyable. Installing a home awning can prove to be a terrific investment. Before you decide and install your canvas awning, there are a few things you should know.

Fixed or Retractable?

Awnings generally come in two varieties: fixed or retractable. A fixed frame awning functions as a more permanent structure. It will provide continual weather protection and is always present for uninterrupted shade and cover.

A retractable awning offers movement due to spring-loaded arms that support the awning and provides the option of sun or shade. If full weather protection is desired, a fixed awning may be the way to go.

Fixed canvas awnings are out in the weather 24/7. This results in fading of the awning covers, and these covers need to be replaced after a few years, or they rot and tear in the wind.

They also look faded, not a good look for a nice house. And a fixed awning will usually be supported by some form of fixed rigid arms or poles. These are often a hazard to those moving around them if they are fixed to the ground, like upright poles.

Businesses and retail locations often use fixed canvas awnings for signage and for protection from the elements over entrances and exits. For the home, a retractable one is a perfect choice because it allows for the homeowner to extend and retract the awning as needed.

It can be retracted either manually or automatically using a remote control or on/off switch. Retractable devices are very convenient and provide a considerable amount of control for the homeowner.

Choosing Colors and Fabrics

Awning manufacturers now offer a wide variety of fabrics and colors for their products. It is best to choose a high quality grade of fabric.

The difference in price between high and low quality fabrics does not justify investing in a cheaper fabric. As with most consumer items, the old adage “you get what you pay for” rings true here as well.

Heavy fabrics will resist fading easier than cheaper grades. Fabrics manufacturer’s warranties should span at least five years, and with good maintenance and care, their lifespan should prove to be much longer. Metal frames should come with lifetime warranties. Be sure to choose a color for your canvas awnings that will suitably match the exterior of your home.

One of the best investments you can make for your home is a retractable awning. A good awning over the right windows and doors adds value and functionality to your home unlike most other home additions you can make for around the same price.

It is getting more and more important to provide good shade and protection for the glass areas of your house. Energy consumption for heating and cooling is becoming more and more expensive. It costs and arm and a leg to air condition a house now, and it is fast becoming important to find ways to conserve energy.

A retractable awning, on the other hand, is a better option. Sure it is more expensive than their fixed cousins, but they offer more options, they last longer, and they're safer.

Don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions about canvas awnings by clicking here.

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