Porch Awnings - A Guide

 

Porch awnings were very popular years ago, then for decades they faded into obscurity. Now they’re back – with a vengeance! Porch awnings are more popular than ever, and they’re often seen on upscale homes, restaurants, five-star hotels, and businesses. Porch awnings provide a touch of class to just about any edifice.

 

Why porch awnings?

 

Why are porch awnings so popular? Porch awnings are popular for several reasons. They’re both attractive and functional. They can add personality and a touch of color to any exterior.

 

Porch awnings are also extremely useful. Large ones can cover an entire deck or patio area, and some are retractable. In other words, the retractable awnings fold up and rest against the exterior of your home. You can decide if you want to enjoy your outdoor living area in the shade, or if you prefer to let the sun shine in. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you that it’s much cooler in the shade, so retractable porch awnings are the perfect choice for those hot summer days. When the weather cools off a bit, you can retract the awning and allow the sun to warm your outdoor living area. And of course, if you’d like to enjoy a gentle spring or summer rain, you can take full advantage of it while staying nice and dry under your porch awning.

 

Large porch awnings can also help protect your outdoor furniture from rain and sun damage. Both can be very punishing for woods and fabrics traditionally used with patio and deck furniture. If you keep plants and flowers on your deck or patio, porch awnings can help protect them too. Many plants can’t withstand the brutal midday sun and heat.

 

Smaller porch awnings might be placed over a small landing in front of an exterior door. The awning will provide cover during a rain shower while you’re at the door fumbling with your keys. Such an awning can also protect wooden doors from the punishing rays of the sun. If your exterior door has glass panels, the awning can even help with keeping your home cool and comfortable by providing shade in the hotter months of the year.

 

What types of porch awnings are available?

 

Porch awnings come in several colors, sizes, and configurations. Some are retractable, while others are fixed. You’ll find porch awnings in several colors and patterns, so finding one to match or accent your outdoor living area won’t be a problem.

 

Several different materials are used to make porch awnings. One of the most common is canvas. Another popular awning material is vinyl. In the past few years, newer materials have been added to porch awnings. Some include fade-resistant fabrics that maintain their vibrant colors for years without fading. How do these work? For these fabrics, the dye permeates the entire fabric instead of just “sitting” on the surface. As a result, the dye is more permanent, allowing the colors to stand up to the elements.

 

Another type of porch awning is made of aluminum. These are usually more expensive, but they’re sturdier and more durable than fabric porch awnings.