Creating a functional and beautiful outdoor space is something many homeowners dream of. And the easiest way to improve your outdoor area is with an awning. They provide shade, shelter from rain, and class to the exterior of your home. At Vista Fashions, we have a variety of awnings for outdoor space to choose from that will fit perfectly with whatever outdoor area you’re looking to cover – whether that’s a patio, balcony, or garden. But how do you determine which awning is right for you? In this guide, we’ll go through what you’ll need to think about when finding the perfect awnings for outdoor space.
1. Understand Your Needs
Before you start shopping, think about why you want an awning. Are you looking for sun protection? Or do you want a rain and wind shield, too? Not all awnings are made the same. Some can withstand harsh weather conditions. Others are simply for shade. Knowing how you plan to use it will help you exclude certain types.
2. Types of Awnings
There are several types of awnings available, each with unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Retractable Awnings: These allow you to extend or retract the awning as needed. They’re perfect for those who want flexibility in their outdoor space.
- Fixed Awnings: These are permanent structures that provide constant shade and protection. They are ideal for patios and outdoor areas that require continuous coverage.
- Freestanding Awnings: These can be placed anywhere in your yard, not attached to your house. They’re great for garden spaces or creating a shaded seating area away from your home.
- Window and Door Awnings: These smaller awnings are designed to protect your windows and doors from the elements while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your home.
3. Material Matters
The material of your awning will greatly impact its durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some common materials used in awning construction:
- Canvas: A classic choice, canvas awnings provide excellent sun protection and are available in a variety of colors and patterns.
- Acrylic: Acrylic fabrics are highly resistant to fading, mildew, and UV rays, making them ideal for long-term use in sunny environments.
- Vinyl: If you’re looking for a material that can withstand rain, vinyl awnings are water-resistant and durable.
Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs.
4. Size and Placement
Size does matter when it comes to selecting the right awning. You want to choose an awning that will cover the space you have in mind, but you don’t want it to be so large that it dominates your whole outdoor environment. Measure the area for where you would like to install the awning and if you are not certain, consult with a professional who can help guide you with proper measurements. A patio facing West, may need a larger and/or stronger constructed awning at this exposure of sun during the afternoon.
5. Budget
Awnings can be quite inexpensive to really high end, depending on the size, material and features. Determine a budget before you even start shopping and stick to it. Keep in mind that while cheaper is better on your wallet from the get go, spending more money on a solid awning will save you in durability for years to come.
6. Installation and Maintenance
When you have found the right awning, the next thing is to install it properly so that it serves the purpose. Being one of our numerous quality services, at Vista Fashions, we offer expert installation services to make sure that your awning is fitted safely. Besides this, regular maintenance like cleaning and checking for any damages will also help you prolong the life of your awning.
Conclusion
The awning you choose for your outdoor area can truly transform how you enjoy your home’s exterior. By thinking about the type, material, style, size and budget, you can help ensure that your awning both complements your space and provides comfort and protection. Here at Vista Fashions we have a wonderful range of awnings to suit all needs from classic to contemporary styles get in touch with us today to look the best awnings for your outdoor space!
