During the summer months, it is nice to get outside and enjoy the sun or a lazy, warm evening. It can also be therapeutic to get away from the familiar scenery inside the house and get a breath of fresh air. An awning allows you to do all of this without being completely exposed to the elements. So, what are your options?

Retractable awnings are one option and not only do they keep the sun and rain from beating down on you, but they keep your deck, patio, and furniture safe as well. The ability to control the amount of heat that gets to the house from the sun is one of the best aspects of a retractable awning. If it is a particularly hot day, the awning can be extended for a cooling shade. Your electric bill will lower considerably. When the weather turns cooler, simply roll up the shade of the awning and let the sun’s warm (and free) rays heat your home. Whatever your needs, the retractable awning can be extended and retracted accordingly.

Offering the same protection of a retractable awning is a stand alone awning. The difference is that stand alone awnings are erected independent of an accompanying structure. This makes them relatively mobile, enabling you to cover up vehicles, gardens, or any area of the yard that needs protection. The convenience you lose by not being able to simply roll up or extend the awning like you can with a retractable, you gain by being able to move a stand alone awning if needed. Take care to buy a stand alone awning of quality construction, though, because they don’t have the added stability of an attached structure to withstand wind and water. The extra money spent on a strong frame will pay off in the end.

There are plenty of options as far as the awning’s material too. Frames made of wood are incredibly stylish and give a natural, woodsy accent to the surrounding area. Wooden frames will need regular treatment because wood soaks up moisture and can splinter if not taken care of. Aluminum frames are popular because they are lightweight and easily attach to a variety of structures. Buy high grade aluminum due to the exposure to wind the awning will experience. If you are looking for a frame that will require the least maintenance, vinyl is the way to go. It is pricey and can be difficult to construct, but once the awning is up, you can put it out of your mind.

Garden/patio awnings provide many options to you. Whatever you want the awning to do, there is sure to be one that satisfies your wishes. Once your awning is up, you can enjoy your time outdoors without too much sun and rain.

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