Pros and Cons of the Installation of a Retractable Awning

A Convenient Option for Every Home

No matter what kind of atmosphere you want to create in your backyard, there’s a retractable awning option for you. These shade structures come in a variety of colors and styles and they often come with weather sensors so they can automatically retract during periods of high wind. This makes them one of the most convenient shading options on the market.

Better Management of Your Home’s Cooling Costs

By providing shade over your back windows and doors, retractable awnings can help block direct sunlight from entering your home’s interior during the summer. This shading effect can significantly reduce solar heat gain, lessening the workload on your air conditioning system. With less heat penetrating the home, indoor temperatures can remain cooler, potentially leading to lower energy bills.

Additionally, retractable awnings offer the flexibility to retract when not needed, allowing sunlight to enter during cooler times of the day or year, further optimizing energy efficiency.

Boosted Curb Appeal

The right retractable awning can also enhance your curb appeal in the backyard, which is important if you plan to sell your home in the next few years. When properly installed, an awning can add visual interest and charm to the exterior of your home, creating a more inviting and polished appearance.

Retractable awnings offer versatility, allowing homeowners to customize their outdoor space and create a more functional and attractive environment for relaxation and entertaining.

Protection for Your Furniture

Do you find it hard to keep up with cleaning your patio furniture? By providing shade and shelter, retractable awnings can help shield furniture like tables, chairs, and loungers from sun exposure, rain, and other weather conditions.

This added protection prolongs the lifespan of outdoor furniture by preventing fading, warping, or deterioration caused by ongoing exposure to harsh sunlight or moisture. With a retractable awning in place, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their outdoor furniture is well-protected.

A Good Return on Investment

Not only does a retractable awning enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your outdoor space, but it also contributes to energy efficiency and reduced cooling costs over time, making it a great investment for your home.

Adding an awning to your backyard can also increase your usable living space, providing an outdoor retreat for relaxation and entertaining. As a result, the added value and enhanced comfort provided by a retractable awning make it a wise investment choice for homeowners looking to improve their overall home value.

Creates a More Comfortable Outdoor Space

One of the biggest benefits of installing an awning over your patio area is that it provides shade and reduces direct sunlight exposure. By extending over your patio space, the awning blocks the sun’s rays from heating outdoor surfaces. This shading effect creates a more comfortable environment for relaxation, dining, or socializing outdoors, even on hot summer days.

With the patio area kept cooler, homeowners can enjoy spending time outside without feeling overheated or uncomfortable.

Allows You to Get More Use Out of Your Backyard

Do you wish you could use your outdoor living area even when the weather is less than ideal? Adding a retractable awning to your space transforms your backyard into a versatile area that can be enjoyed in various weather conditions.

Whether it’s providing shelter from the sun on hot days or shielding you from light rain during mild showers, an awning allows you to make the most of your backyard regardless of the weather.

Offers More Durability Than a Fixed Awning

Since retractable awnings can close when not in use, they are exposed to less harsh weather than fixed awnings. This ability to retract helps protect the awning fabric and mechanism from damage, extending its lifespan compared to fixed awnings, which are always exposed.

With proper maintenance and care, a retractable awning can last for many years, giving you a reliable shade solution for your outdoor space.

It Requires Some Cleaning

While a retractable awning offers versatility and convenience, it also demands regular upkeep to ensure optimal functionality and longevity. Over time, dust, debris, and environmental pollutants can accumulate on the awning fabric, potentially leading to discoloration if not cleaned.

Additionally, the mechanical components of a retractable mechanism may require lubricant, adjustment, or replacement to ensure smooth operation.

It Can Be More Expensive Compared to Some Other Shade Solutions

The advanced design and motorized mechanisms of a retractable awning typically come with a higher price tag compared to traditional fixed awnings or alternative shade solutions like some sun sails or pergolas. The cost of a retractable awning will vary based on factors such as size, material quality, installation complexity, and other features, so keep that in mind when budgeting for your project.

However, we offer convenient financing options to help you get the sun protection you need in your backyard for a price that works with your wallet.

It’s Not for Use in Every Type of Weather

While retractable awnings provide shade and shelter from sunlight and light rain, they may not offer sufficient protection during heavy rain or strong winds. In such adverse weather conditions, retractable awnings can be susceptible to damage, including frame bending or motor malfunction.

It’s best to exercise caution and retract the awning when inclement weather is expected to avoid potential damage and ensure your family’s safety.

It May Eventually Need Some Maintenance

With long-term use, retractable awnings are susceptible to wear and tear over the years. Common issues that may require repairs include fabric tears, motor malfunctions, frame damage, or issues with the retractable mechanism.

Our awning experts are here to answer any questions you have about potential repairs to help you decide if an awning is the right choice for your backyard.