Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings don't just shade your windows and expand your usable outdoor
space - they also have concrete benefits for your home. Not only do retractable awnings provide
shade, but they improve your home's energy efficiency. Window awnings in sunny areas can
help lower your electric bill. A study by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning
Engineers showed that shading sunny windows with window awnings can reduce indoor temperatures
by a significant percentage compared with unshaded windows. This greatly improves the cooling
capabilities of air conditioning and significantly decreases electricity expenditures. As
opposed to window shades, retractable window awnings let in light, but protect your valuable
furnishings from fading. Normally, carpets, draperies, upholstery and even wallpaper will fade
from exposure to direct sunlight. Window awnings, especially those that are retractable, let
you enjoy as much exterior brightness as you desire while protecting your valuable décor from
sun damage. Deck awnings and patio awnings, which are available in retractable versions,
also do more than simply shade your outdoor areas. Well-made patio and deck awnings, such as
those made by SunSetter, also help keep the rain off your deck and patio, which reduces the
chance of water damage. They can even be a safety factor, since drier outdoor surfaces are
less slippery than wet ones. Of course, beautiful awnings also increase your home's eye
appeal and approve its value. Whether it's a canopy awning for a small window or a large
retractable awning for a patio or deck, the choice of fabrics, materials and patterns that are
available for awnings today will beautify your home. Awnings that cover outdoor areas also
make it easier to design beautiful outdoor spaces. No longer do chairs need to cluster around
an umbrella's meager shade; you can indulge your desire for outdoor lounges, loveseats and
other outdoor furniture, knowing that your friends and family will be protected from the sun's
harmful rays while the furniture is protected from both sun fading and water damage. These
days, a wide range of beautiful outdoor décor is available for homeowners, from indoor-outdoor
carpets that emulate fine oriental rugs to state-of-the-art weather-resistant fabrics that
resemble fine indoor upholstery. Coordinate or contrast with awning colors and fabrics to
create unique outdoor living spaces that not only make your home a showplace, but
significantly increase your overall usable living space.
If you use plantings on your deck or patio, if you use an awning that isn't retractable you
may want to stick to plants and flowers that require indirect sunlight. Some retractable
awnings are automated and can retract on a timer, if you prefer to have full sunlight for some
parts of the day and choose plants that need some direct sun. If you know that you will
commonly leave the awning retracted unless you are using the deck or patio in full sun, you
will want to choose plants that can tolerate some direct sun as well as survive in shade. |
