If you’re thinking about installing awnings, we’re here to tell you you’re making a fabulous decision. It’s easy to dismiss them as rusty old contraptions you see on faded store fronts, but they’re so much more. Over the years, thanks to technology and innovation, awnings have come a long way. They sport a wide variety of designs and colours, spanning across a range of fabrics. This means you can customise your awning to become a stand-out feature at your property.
Regardless of what you want your awning to achieve and where it’ll be installed, there’s no doubt it’ll serve you well. When you’re enjoying your next barbie and favourite drinks surrounded by loved ones and nature, you can congratulate yourself. It really is one of the best additions for your home, one that’s also an investment. Enjoy year round comfort with awnings that are right for you.
Though installing awnings won’t set you back financially as much as a roof would, you’d still be wondering if it’s worth it. So now would be a good time to really understand the benefits you could reap with these handy fixtures. Let’s take a look below.
1. Protection From the Elements
The first and most obvious benefit of awnings is that they protect you from the elements. Be it a blustery, rainy day or a scorcher, you can go about your business as usual. As Aussies, we like to spend as much time as we can outdoors, and awnings are one way to do that. Setting one up above your patio, verandah or deck will help you make the most of your precious outdoor space.
Awnings are also fabulous for entertaining outdoors, if that’s your thing. No need to cancel plans thanks to unexpected rain or thunderstorms anymore, because the party’s still on!
Window awnings in particular are great for precise control over the elements as they directly cover your window. This means that when there’s too much sun or rain for your liking, you can still keep your windows open. In turn, air can continue circulating.
2. Blocks Harmful UV Rays
Living in Australia also means dealing with its at times harsh sunlight. In general, you’re advised to stay out of direct sunlight so as to protect your skin health. And while you can arm yourself with hats, caps and sunscreen, lazing about at home calls for simpler measures. What better way to keep harmful UV rays at bay than an awning of course?
Prolonged exposure to the sun can give rise to health issues such as premature skin ageing, age spots, skin cancer and even eye damage. So if you like spending time in your backyard and pool, we highly recommend considering an awning to help. Additionally, you can better protect your flooring and interiors from fading caused by sun damage.
3. Keeps Pets and People Cool
When Summer creeps around, you likely want to head outside. But a blazing patio doesn’t seem the most enticing. So how can you spend time outdoors without being held hostage by your air-conditioner? You guessed it. Awnings.
Be they retractable or fixed, awnings can make your space feel instantly cooler thanks to the expansive shade they provide. Not only is this great for you, but it’s also great for your pets. If your pet spends time outdoors, you want to be sure they’re comfortable. After all, fur and the Summer sun don’t do them any favours. With awnings, they can laze about thinking about walks, food and you, of course, as much as they like. Additionally, by cooling the surface temperature of the space, they can walk comfortably as can you.
4. Boosts Indoor Energy Efficiency
A lesser known fact about awnings is that they can effectively improve energy efficiency. This in turn leads to lower energy bills, which we’re always thankful for!
As mentioned above, awnings can cool down your outdoor space significantly by keeping sunlight at bay. This then has a follow-on effect, as this heat and light won’t make its way indoors. Naturally this means a lesser need for air-conditioning, not only reducing your carbon footprint but also impact on your wallet.
5. Creates Curb Appeal
Last but not least, awnings instantly add to curbside appeal. They have an uncanny ability to pull a property together, immediately catching your eye. These exterior fixtures are no longer the clunky old things of yore, they’re in fact, quite trendy. That’s because they now come in a wide range of colours, styles and fabrics for the best in customisation. So not only do you add to practicality, you also add to aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Seeing as how outdoor living is the ‘in’ thing these days and here to stay, an awning is an investment. The best way to decide on the right one for you, is to assess your climate and purpose of your outdoor space. Also take into consideration how light behaves there. Is there sunlight throughout the day? Then a fixed awning could be right for you. Does the light change and shift as the day gets on? Then a retractable awning would fit well. While yes it can amount to more than a fixed awning, it’s certainly cheaper than a roof. Plus, it comes with a lot more flexibility for your convenience.
Get in touch with our expert team for all your awning queries, no matter how big or small. Our experts come with decades of combined experience, and have both the theoretical and practical know-how to assist. They’ll also help you select the right colours and types of frames and fabrics for the best fit. Book a free in-home consultation for a personalised experience.