Outdoor awnings can be found in both domestic and commercial premises throughout Australia. They are designed for numerous purposes and the concept has been around for years. With the advances in technology, you can now buy a wide range of units such as retractable or folding arm awnings. They can be installed in a variety of places throughout your home, helping to protect your family from the sun while providing aesthetic appeal.
- Shelter from the Weather
Outdoor awnings are perfect for protecting you and your family from the weather, they can be extended to provide cover from the sun’s rays when the temperature gets too hot outdoors. Custom made outdoor awnings protect your deck or patio from UV exposure, so if you want to sit outside and enjoy the atmosphere, you don’t have to worry about sunburn or overexposure to harmful rays.
Photo by MichaelExternal awnings can also reduce the temperature on your patio or deck by up to 20%. They stop direct sunlight from penetrating the area, allowing you and family members to relax outdoors without having to think about damaging your skin. Nobody likes to lounge outdoors without having the option of retreating to a shaded, cool area for relief from the sun. Awnings also provide cover if the weather changes and you are faced with a sudden downpour.
- Protect Your Furniture
Outdoor awnings don’t just protect the occupants of your home, they also provide excellent cover for your outdoor furniture. If you leave your fixtures and fittings constantly exposed to the blistering sun or pounding rain, they’ll eventually succumb to the onslaught and start to deteriorate. Having a protective outdoor awning means you don’t have to worry about costly furniture, you can leave it outside your home without thinking about water or sun damage.
- Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
A strategically placed outdoor awning won’t just provide your home with protection, it will dramatically reduce your energy consumption, decreasing your carbon footprint. External awnings are often referred to as an outdoor air conditioner, they can reduce heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on windows facing directly into the sun, as discussed in this piece on energy efficient window attachments for your home.
Window awnings can lower your energy consumption levels by up to 30% during the summer by shading your premises from the sun’s scorching hot rays. If you install retractable awnings, you can also withdraw the unit and allow sunlight to enter your home during cooler times of the year.
- Easy to Clean & Maintain
Awnings enhance the appearance of your home and they are very easy to keep clean. Some material on the market is designed to be water repellent and mould resistant. Which means you don’t have to worry about moisture or mildew damaging your awnings. Here are 5 effective tips to help keep your outdoor awnings in exceptional working condition.
- Use a brush to remove heavy debris
- Spray the awning with a cleaning solution
- Clean the unit with a soft brush
- Give the cleaning solution time to penetrate the fabric
- Rinse thoroughly and allow the awning to dry independently.
Outdoor awnings are incredibly useful for several purposes around your home. They help to improve your property and lifestyle, allowing you to add extra space to your premises. They add value to your home while protecting it from harmful UV exposure. They are simple to maintain once you take some time to care for your unit. In addition, they are cost-effective and great for reducing your carbon footprint.
