Awnings are a décor piece that can immensely enhance your outdoors. They provide shade to your exterior spaces like patios and decks, thus making them more enjoyable and liveable throughout the year. These can also prove quite helpful if you like outdoor dining spaces but don’t want your guests to feel uncomfortable under the sun.

So, designer custom awnings that are retractable not only look elegant. They can also withstand the harsh climate and be installed anywhere. However, choosing one requires you to consider various factors, and take a look at them below:

1. Assess the Material

Awnings made of different materials need different degrees of maintenance. Some materials are well-suited to the looks of particular homes than others. Meanwhile, aluminium and outdoor fabric are two of the most used materials in awnings. Out of them, those made of aluminium are durable but cannot be customised regarding colours and designs. 

On the other hand, awnings made from outdoor fabrics need higher maintenance. However, since they are available in various colours, you have the freedom of customisation with them. 

2. Examine the Angle of Installing the Awning

It is an aspect that many people forget to consider. So, if you have a window that faces east or west, the drop size of the awning for best performance should be 65 to 75 per cent. But if you have a window that faces south, the drop size can be 45 to 60 per cent. It is because in such a case, you need less coverage due to the sun’s angle. 

3. Choose Between Retractable or Freestanding Awning

The kind of awning that you install is also important. Motorised retractable custom awningsare appropriate for outdoor spaces, and they come in various standard colours, and some of them have integrated LED lighting. You can adjust retractable awnings when you aren’t using them. Meanwhile, freestanding awnings are designed to segment an area properly. So, if you’re a business owner who desires to create a specific space for BBQ, then freestanding will be ideal. Moreover, they can also be used as an advertisement.

4. Pay Attention to the Size and Style

There are numerous styles to explore when it comes to choosing an awning. And you can choose one that aligns with the décor scheme of your place. In the meantime, some widely prevalent designs in awnings are the traditional one having an open or closed size, waterfall, gable walkaway, domes style, and a semi-circular entrance. And to get the best one for your place, you should consult a reputable blinds company. Moreover, if you are selecting a retractable awning, ensure that it blends harmoniously with the architectural style. 

As a final tip, small awnings are generally used as decorative pieces. On the other hand, you need a bigger awning to provide coverage and shade to your outdoor areas.

How to Find the Right Size of Window Awnings?

You need to know the width and projection of the awning for finding its correct size. Measure the width where the awning hinges will mount, while the awning hardware should be mounted on either the outdoor wall or window frame to keep the awning level. Besides, the measurements should be within 1” to 2”.

Next, measure the window height from the edge of the trim on both ends. A typical projection would be half the window height. For example, a window height of 60” should have an awning with a 30” projection. 

People who own cafes or restaurants can benefit a lot from installing awnings, as they enable customers to have a great time irrespective of the weather. So, the factors mentioned above should guide your purchasing decision in this regard.