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Fixed or stationary awnings are permanently attached to a building. They cannot be moved or adjusted. They are usually used on windows to prevent the harmful rays from the sun from ruining the furnishings. They are also commonly used for certain parts of the garden. There are situations where there is not enough space for a stationary awning. For these situations, you may want to use a freestanding awning. Freestanding awnings cannot be retracted or extended. However, the lighter models can be moved if needed.

Retractable or foldable awnings can be adjusted to suit your needs. You can extend or retract the awning as far as you want. When this type of awning is extended, heavy winds or rains can damage it. You can also adjust the angle of the awning. They give you the option of lying in the shade or basking in the sun. Retractable awnings come in two different models: manual or motorized. The manual model requires that you crank a lever to either retract or extend the awning. The motorized model is powered by a motor that retracts or extends the awning with the flip of a switch. The motorized models that come with an outdoor switch can be installed without any great trouble. The motorized models that have an indoor switch will require the assistance of a professional electrician. Some motorized models also come with a manual override feature. This feature gives you the ability to manually adjust the awning just in case the motor malfunctions or there is a power outage. There are other motorized models that can be controlled by a remote control or sun and wind sensors. The sun sensors can be set to extend the awning when the sun comes out and retract it when it goes down. The wind sensors can be set to retract the awning when the wind speeds exceed 20 mph. If you live in a very windy area, you may want to add telescoping legs to your awning for extra stability.

There are many benefits provided by awnings. Awnings can block ninety nine percent of the ultraviolet light from the sun and prevent ninety four percent of the light from the sun from going through windows. They can also reduce the cost of air conditioning during the summer months because they can reduce heat gain by seventy seven percent. Awnings can also extend the outdoor living area. They can convert an outdoor space such as the deck, patio, balcony, or grilling area into an outdoor room. Awnings come in various sizes, shapes, designs and colors. They can add some beauty to any home or business and increase its value.

The two most popular materials used for awnings are canvas and aluminum. Aluminum is better at reflecting light than canvas is. This fact allows aluminum awnings to keep you cooler during hot weather than canvas awnings. Aluminum awnings are also much more durable. Aluminum awnings can last almost forever. Most canvas awnings have to be replaced approximately every ten years. However, canvas awnings look better than aluminum awnings to some buyers. Also, there is a wider selection of colors, patterns and designs for canvas awnings. You should be careful when you are choosing colors. The lighter colors will let in more heat and should be avoided.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Awnings

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Michael Russell - EzineArticles Expert Author

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