New Did You Know That Awnings Can Save You Money?

In today's economy saving money is important. An American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers study showed that an awning can reduce heat gain by 55 to 65 percent on southern-facing windows and 72 to 77 percent on western exposures. This results in a direct energy savings for you. A porch awning is a great investment for your front or back porch. 

Consider these benefits of having awnings on your porch or windows:

They reduce your energy costs by cooling the air adjacent to your home
They provide additional shade when the sun is lower in the sky to increase your porch enjoyment
They add privacy
They can be used to convert your porch into a screen porch
They add ambiance and curb appeal to your home

Awnings come in all price ranges, styles, and models  

You are sure to find one to fit your specific requirements. Perhaps the most versatile style awning is the motorized retractable awning. This allows you to retract the awning at the touch of a button (some are remote control). Both the manual and motorized retractable models give you an energy advantage all year long. In the summer, the awning will decrease the heat on your porch or your windows. In winter, retract the awning to allow the sun's rays to warm your home thus decreasing your heating bills.  

Another nice feature is that some awnings are designed for windy areas. These models usually have reinforced supports, can be angled back to the wall or placed vertically on the floor, reinforced mounting plates, and heavier fabrics. In addition, you can find wind sensors that you attach to your awning so that it will automatically close on windy days. You won't have to worry about your awning when you are on vacation.  

Awning accessories  

You can easily convert some models to screen rooms giving you an enclosed porch.  Lighting kits are also available for awnings to make them even more versatile. Not only that but you have a wide variety of awning fabric color choices. From solids to stripes, you can find a pattern and color to suit your decorating needs.  Awning fabrics are usually made from water-repellent acrylic materials to look attractive and last a long time. Most fabrics protect you from UVA and UVBs rays. Choose a light color or light color combination to reflect as much heat as possible.  

Aluminum awnings are meant for long wear and provide a weather tight seal. However, there doesn't seem to be as many color and design options.

Considerations when purchasing awnings

When purchasing an awning makes sure it drains well. Consider where your awning will be located as water runoff could be an issue. The size of the awning will dictate how much water you'll have to direct. In addition to water, make sure your awning can be vented to release any trapped hot air.  

Now you know a few considerations when purchasing and installing a porch or window awning. In the summer time, additional shade gives you more opportunities to really enjoy your porch.