A Guide to Roll Up Awnings

 

You can make your own shade with roll up awnings! Awnings are the cool way to instantly drop the temperature on your deck or patio, making your outdoor living areas much more comfortable during those dog days of summer. And not only will a roll up awning protect you and your family from the harsh rays of the sun, its shade will also help protect your patio furniture from the elements.

 

What’s a roll up awning?

 

Roll up awnings, also called retractable awnings, are covers made of weather-resistant fabric or aluminum. The awning is attached to your house, and they extend over your deck or patio manually or with the push of a button. They roll up or retract when not in use.

 

The manual-type of retractable awning is maneuvered with the use of a hand crank, while the automatic awning uses a motor to do the work for you. Many of the motorized units even have remote controls, making it easy to add sun or shade without leaving the comfort of your lounge chair.

 

An awning can make your patio or deck up to twenty degrees cooler. Of course, whenever you want to bask in the sun, the awning can be easily retracted.

 

Another great thing about roll up awnings is that they can help cool the inside of your house, too! By blocking the hot sun from windows and glass doors that look out over your outdoor living area, an awning can reduce the temperature inside your home by up to fifteen degrees. Wow! Just think how much you’ll save on your power bill. In fact, studies show that an awning can reduce your air conditioning use by as much as 77%.

 

Roll up awnings remain attached to your home all year. Unlike some other types of deck and patio covers, these awnings don’t have to be taken down in the winter and put back up for warm weather. They store safely against your house once they’re retracted. This means a lot less work for you.

 

Available options

 

Rollup awnings come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and prices, so you’re sure to find one that’s just right for you. Choose a solid color, a stripe, or a pattern, in practically any size you need.

 

Several models require no “legs” or additional supports, so there’s nothing to affect your view of the great outdoors. The structure is sturdy enough to hold these awnings with no additional support necessary.

 

Another available option on several models is the wind sensor. Other environmental sensors are available, too. This will keep your awning safe from damaging winds.

 

With motorized roll up awnings, you can also get keypad and timer options.

 

Where to buy roll up awnings

 

If you’re considering the purchase of an awning, get acquainted with the manufacturers’ sites online. Learn about all the options available, and compare prices and warranties. Like most items, all awnings are not created equal, so do your homework before buying. Check out as many roll up awnings as you can so that you and your awning will have lots of happy years together!