Retractable awnings, also known as deck awnings, can provide shade, protection from rain and help keep your house cool during the hot months. Retractable awnings can also set off a special place to host parties or just to lounge and enjoy the outdoors. These are just some of the many benefits of a retractable awning.
It’s clear that retractable awnings offer many luxuries and benefits. Let’s explore how to choose the right awning for you.
Sizing of Your Retractable Awning
Think about the space that you would like to be shaded. Also, consider where the sun will be and the direction that it will face. Take a measuring device such as a yardstick or measuring tape and measure the area that you’d like an awning to cover.
Now you will know what size awning that you will be shopping for. Make sure to keep your measurements handy when you are shopping for your retractable awning. It will save you time and energy by knowing the size that you need.
Retractable Awning Features
Each retractable awning will come with its own set of features. Many features can be customized just for you to meet your specific wants and needs. Look at all the options available while choosing your awning. Remember that this add-on to your house represents an investment that you will have to enjoy for many years. Make sure to get the features you really want and need. This is a time to customize your outdoor space to fit your personal needs.
Durability Is Important for a Retractable Awning
When purchasing an awning, know that quality is important. You will want a retractable awning that is built to last and withstand the elements. The better the quality, the longer your awning will last. Don’t skimp on quality just to save a few dollars. It will save you money, in the long run, to go with the most-durable retractable awning that you can afford. Expect a quality retractable awning to last for decades.
Retractable Awning Colors
Think about what colors will complement your house when considering color options for your retractable awning. Also, think about whether you plan on changing your house exterior color in the near future. These choices should play into what color you choose for your retractable awning. You’ll want an awning color that adds to the attractiveness of your house, not distracts from it.
Warranty Information for Your Retractable Awning
Accidents happen. So do natural disasters. Even though you may purchase a high-quality, durable retractable awning, wind damage can occur in severe storms. Oversized hail could also damage your awning. Make sure to get a warranty that covers you in case the worst scenarios happen. Think of a good warranty as good insurance, eliminating the stress of worrying about your awning. Be sure to read the fine print and ask questions when reviewing a retractable awning warranty.
Retractable Awning Prices
If you are like most people, you have a budget for how much you can spend on home improvements. A retractable awning purchase is no different. When purchasing an awning, think about how much you will be able to spend. By having an acceptable price range, you won’t have to stress about overspending.
Think about what the most is that you can spend on a retractable awning and don’t go over that amount. You may even be able to keep it well under your desired budget.
How Much Care Will Your Retractable Awning Need?
Houses need care, and so will your retractable awning. Make sure to research about the material used, and what type of care your awning may or may not need. Will you be able to take your awning down to clean it? Or is it a permanent fixture requiring you to be on a ladder when servicing your awning.
Is There an Installation Fee?
Will you be installing your retractable awning yourself or is an installation fee included in the price of the awning? An awning that costs a little more money but includes free installation and setup may be worth the extra price. Make sure to know what services are included in the price of your awning.
What Type of Retracting Mechanism Do Retractable Awnings Have?
Retractable awnings have either manual or motorized mechanisms. Think about whether you have any physical limitations that will prevent you from retracting your awning using a manual winder.
For some people, it will be necessary to use a motorized winder. Or maybe you have no physical limitations but would appreciate the convenience of letting a motor do the work for you. Keep in mind that there will most likely be more technical issues with a motorized mechanism than a simpler manual winder.
Should You Get a Protective Hood for Your Retractable Awning?
If a protective hood is available for the retractable awning of your choice, should you purchase it? Hoods should prolong the life of your retractable awning. Think about how many seasons you will be using your retractable awning annually. If you have a snowy and cold winter season, you may want to purchase a hood to protect your retractable awning in the seasons when you won’t be using it. The extra money spent on a hood initially could save you lots of money in the long run.
How About an Awning Drop Shade for Your Retractable Awning?
A drop shade can enclose the space of your retractable awning. It can also provide more shade depending on the time of day and how the sun hits the area where you have your awning mounted.
Final Thoughts on Purchasing a Retractable Awning
Buying a retractable awning doesn’t have to be a stressful endeavor. In fact, if you are well-informed about what to look for and what to be aware of, purchasing a retractable awning can be an enjoyable experience.
Hopefully, you’re now much more educated about retractable awnings so you can be comfortable in making a decision about purchasing one for your deck.
