How to Select Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings offer outdoor protection.

Retractable awnings provide shade from the sun and protection for outdoor living space. Because you can pull back (retract) the awning, you can use this style on homes in areas that have heavy rain or snow or high winds that would damage other awnings. When you shop for a retractable awning, consider the fabric style, the method of attachment and the dimensions. With a little planning, you can pick an awning that will enhance your home's appearance while providing a shady, comfortable spot outside.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Color swatches

Instructions

1. Measure the area you want the awning to cover. Determine how wide you need the awning to be, as well as how long. Plan for the awning to extend a little past where you think it should go in order to accommodate outdoor furniture.

2. Take into consideration the awning's grade when you measure. The height at which you attach the awning can affect its coverage area. To better determine the size you need, consider the rise and run of the area and the slope you need to cover it, as well as whether you want an awning with an adjustable pitch.

3. Determine whether you want to use a motorized retractable awning or a manual one. Motorized awnings cost more but can be useful for larger awnings, which tend to be heavier than manual styles.

4. Evaluate the awning's mounting system. Most retractable awnings require installation, so you'll want to know what tools you'll need, as well the type of exterior surface needed to support the awning.

5. Consider fabric options. You can select a specific pattern or color for your fabric so it will match your home's exterior. Depending on where you live, you may need to evaluate the grade for the fabric to ensure that you get an awning tough enough to withstand your climate.

6. Decide what type of valence you want for the face of the awning. On most awnings, you'll be able to see the valence even with the awning retracted. The options available may depend on the awning dealer you work with.

7. Coordinate the frame to match your home and your fabric, if your retractable awning requires the additional support. Several styles of frames are available, from powder-coated aluminum to cast-iron frames. You can customize the color of powder-coated frames.

Tips & Warnings

• To match the color scheme of the retractable awning to your home's exterior, you may want to get color swatches or paint samples to take with you while you shop. Interior and exterior home designers sometimes use the Pantone color system, which allows them to match the color without actually seeing a swatch.

References

• Awningshelp.com
• Awnings US