Types Of Awnings
Awnings are primarily used for protection. Installed on the exterior walls of a house, on windows, doors, and patios, awnings protect any structure from harmful environmental elements. Rain, snow, sunlight, and wind that strike your windows and exterior walls can cause moisture build-up, brittleness, and rotting. These types of deterioration can damage the overall structure of your house and might be expensive to correct.
There are two types of awnings: fixed and retractable. Traditional awnings were permanently installed on the exteriors of homes and buildings. These awnings always extruded from the structure and could not be taken down. However, technological advancements have produced the retractable awning. Retractable awnings can be pulled out whenever it needs to be used and can quickly be rolled up and stored in metal casings.
However, fixed and retractable awnings have their own advantages and disadvantages. Fixed awnings might provide more protection, but might be less attractive because of their bulky structures. Retractable awnings can be versatile but can be more costly once their motor or internal retracting mechanism gets broken.
Fixed Awnings
Fixed awnings are permanent second coverings. These are installed and usually extrude from your window, patio, or door, and cannot be folded up and stored. Depending on their skeleton, awnings can look bulky and obtrusive because of their slanting posts and braces. When installed on glass windows, awnings can provide optimum protection and prevent wind and rain from destroying these structures. However, fixed awnings can make rooms dark because they block out sunlight extremely well.
Fixed awnings are also made of limited materials. These awnings are mostly made of steel braces and posts that can corrode and rust easily. Fixed awnings are also made of canvas or vinyl fabric that is prone to mildew build-up and fading.
Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings are more flexible than fixed awnings. Because of their ability to be extended or withdrawn, retractable awnings can protect your structures only when they are needed. Retractable awnings can be pulled out during hailstorms and strong winds that can strike glass windows and cause them to shatter. During sunny days when you want the sunlight to stream through your windows, retractable awnings can be withdrawn manually or automatically.
Retractable awnings are available in more fabrics and colors. These awnings are made of coated and dyed fabrics that do not fade or tear easily. Because they are dyed, retractable awnings offer more choices for owners who want a specific color or shade to match their home.
Fixed vs. retractable awnings
Fixed awnings provide constant protection than retractable awnings. Because they are permanent structures, fixed awnings do not need to be retracted by hand cranks or motors when it suddenly rains.
Retractable awnings can be more attractive than fixed awnings. When withdrawn, retractable awnings only show their horizontal valance. These awnings do not block the view of your homes by having the protruding posts and braces of fixed awnings. Retractable awnings also come in more colors and patterns that give owners more options.