Once summer rolls around and the sun starts to warm your home, there is nothing more exciting than bringing your friends and family together for a backyard party. If you have a backyard deck or porch, you know how great it feels to be able to use it. You might also be aware of how hot it can get if it’s in direct sunlight during the summer months. By shading your deck, you’re allowing for use out of your backyard and deck to the fullest extent.
Finding the right retractable awning for your needs can be difficult, so finding the right company to shop with could be pivotal. There are plenty of different types of awnings as well as installation methods – what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. Before you begin shopping for your awning, there are a couple of factors you should consider.
Cost of retractable awnings
The most important factor for many people is the cost of retractable awnings. While you don’t want to cheap out on your sun and rain protection, you also might not want to spend a fortune. The cost of an awning is difficult to quantify into one number – different installation companies, different types of the awning, different add-ons, etc. For a more definite cost, you’ll need to know exactly what type of awning you’re looking for and which company you’ll work with to install it. You might be looking at anywhere from $500-$10,000.
Knowing which type of awning you’re looking for will save you from purchasing one that doesn’t fit your deck. If you want to shade your deck and your yard, you might be looking for a retractable awning that attaches to the house. If you’re in an area that experiences heavy snowstorms during the winter, perhaps you’ll want an awning that can be stored away when not in use. Knowing your situation as well as what works for your deck will save you thousands of dollars.
Find the right awning for you
This part of the retractable awning hunt is up to you – knowing which awning best fits your space and your needs. More permanent models of awnings might require a permit based on their size or location however they offer year-round shade and protection from the sun. Not having to worry about storing the product when not in use is an added benefit. Other, less permanent, models are typically what you’d find offering shade to a deck or porch – retractable awnings or umbrellas.
The material of which your awning is constructed should be considered before purchasing as well. Some fabrics which are used for your awning provide much better protection from the elements. You might live in an area that is susceptible to heavy rain or snow – having an unprotected wood or metal awning might not be a good idea. Find out what materials are compromised by the elements in your area and avoid using those fabrics.
