Love them or hate them, window awnings are designed to be far more than just a decorative feature. In fact, some people even consider window awnings to be a smart investment, thanks to the benefits they can provide.
Let’s take a look at the purpose of window awnings.
So what are some of the purposes?
They can reduce cooling costs
Window awnings do a great job at creating shade inside the home. While this may sound disastrous to some, for those living in warm and humid climates, window awnings can be a godsend. Unlike regular drapes or blinds, window awnings still let light into your home, just not direct sunlight.
The lack of direct sunlight will help to keep your home cool, particularly if you put an awning over all of the windows which face the sun throughout the day. It’s estimated that a window awning can prevent up to 60-75 percent of heat from entering a room.
They can keep the rain out
If you have a habit of leaving the windows open and forgetting to close them when it rains, then a window awning may be a great solution. While they don’t keep out all moisture, they certainly provide a buffer against the elements.
They can prevent UV damage
UV damage is a real problem, and it can occur even through windows and glass-paneled doors. UV rays creeping into your home can affect your furniture, walls, and even flooring.
Additionally, items left on or near the window can become sun-damaged and bleached. UV rays can also cause paint to begin to peel and chip, which can get unsightly and difficult to keep on top of.
They can improve the appearance of your home
The right window awnings can drastically change the outward appearance of your home, and sometimes even enhance its curb appeal.
Some people choose to color coordinate their window awnings with other aspects of their home, such as the front door or the mailbox, or even the flowers in their front yard.
How effective are awnings?
How effective your awnings are will all depend on what type you buy, and what result you want from your awnings.
For example, the material of the awning will have a huge impact on how effective it is. While awnings that are made from waterproof fabric come in a wide range of colors, patterns and styles, they require a lot of maintenance.
Alternatively, for added strength, we recommend opting for aluminum awnings. However, these are not available in a range of colors and patterns.
You’ll also need to consider the size of your awnings. Larger awnings tend to be more functional, whereas smaller and prettier awnings tend to just be there for decoration. If you purchase retractable awnings, you’ll be able to close them up during the winter in order to preserve precious heat inside the home.
As 40% of the heat entering your home is lost through the windows, window awnings are very effective at preserving energy. They also protect your furniture, walls, flooring, and paint from sun damage and fading due to UV light.
A little research can help you in making the right decision as there are multiple options available these days and you have a number of manufacturers offering window awnings for your home.
What is the awning over a door called?
Door awnings can be referred to as just that— door awnings! However, you may also notice some people referring to them as a canopy, an overhang, a porch, or even a portico.
According to the definition provided by Wikipedia, an awning or overhang is usually composed of durable materials that are stretched over a light structure made of wood, iron, aluminum, or steel. It serves as a secondary covering that provides shade from the sun and protection from wind, rain, and snow.
Awnings or overhangs are usually attached to the exterior walls of a house or building, typically above a door or window area. These roof structures are usually permanent but some may have the ability to be retracted when needed.
Canopies are commonly free-standing structures that provide shelter to an area outside your house or building. It is most often used outside a door or entrance, but unlike awnings or overheads which are permanent structures, these roofs are generally assembled when needed and stored after use.
What is the purpose of awnings?
Window awnings offer great aesthetic value and can enhance your home’s curb appeal, but they also offer a variety of practical uses. Many people think about installing window awnings but never get around to it, mainly because they’re unsure if the investment is worth it.
The primary purpose of awnings is to conserve and protect your home from overbearing sun rays. Awnings provide shade, regardless of whether it’s warm or cool outside.
Windows awnings especially, effectively combat the sunlight your home is exposed to. Though awnings are functional, they are also quite decorative and can be as bold or as subtle as you choose.
Most good-quality awnings are weather-resistant and can withstand both light showers and moderate rainfall.
Also, an awning can extend your living space. For example, if you have French patio doors leading out onto a deck, putting an awning over these doors would mean that the outside space can be utilized, even when the weather wouldn’t normally allow it.
It will provide better protection against the sun during the day and a more private setting for you and your house guests.
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