Awnings have been used since ancient times by Egyptians and Syrians. These products provided cover for market stalls and houses. Awnings (or overhangs) are exterior covers with both practical and aesthetic use. Not only does it provide shade against rain or shine, but it also makes one’s house less bare.
Here are a few advantages that might convince you to order that retractable rolling awning for your backyard and help you choose the right fabric:
Economic and Energy Efficient
We all know that awnings can provide direct shade from sunlight. But more than that, it can help dissipate heat and reduce heat gain against windows in direct sunlight. In fact, awnings can reduce solar heat gain by 65% to 77%, thereby reducing the heat within the structure and helping your air conditioning unit run easier.
With properly placed awnings, you can help your house or building stay cool while reducing its electricity bill. In the long run, your awning would practically pay for itself.
Protection
Awnings can protect you and your furniture; not only can your skin get damaged by direct sunlight, but also your furniture. So, just in line with it being “economic and energy efficient”, awnings can allow you to enjoy your backyard without having to buy and apply sunscreen, and it saves your furniture from discoloration and deterioration from direct heat and sunlight.
Additionally, awnings can protect your backyard not only from sunlight but also from the elements. Rain and moisture can wreak havoc to your wooden decks, rust your metal furniture, and prevent any slipping hazards.
Appeal and Aesthetics
Not only are awnings functional, but they can provide accent and appeal to your bare windows or backyard. There are different types of awnings for you to choose, as well as different fabrics and materials. This gives you a lot of options in customizing and decorating your home or establishment.
Types of Awning Fabrics and Materials
Awnings come in different fabrics and materials, depending on your intended use and preferences. Here are the most common ones being used:
Cotton
Cotton is the most common and classic fabric for awnings, but it’s not as durable as other materials and it requires waterproof coating or sealing to serve its purpose of providing shade from both sunlight and rain.
Acrylic
Acrylic is waterproof, leakproof, stretch resistant, and weatherproof. It is more durable than cotton canvas but still needs to be coated to prevent sun damage. In addition, it works well with high humidity and comes in different colors and styles.
Vinyl
Vinyl or vinyl-coated fabrics are heavier than acrylic but provide better translucency and work best in extremely humid areas. Vinyl provides good protection against UV rays that cause discoloration and damage to furniture.
Metal
Steel/aluminum awnings provide a slick, modern-looking shade that can be customized by painting. Metal awnings require paint to prevent rusting. They also collect dirt.
Awnings can provide many advantages and there are numerous types of materials and fabrics you can use for a variety of function. It’s time to install one in your property.
