What is a Retractable Awning?
A lateral arm or retractable awning uses spring-loaded arms to provide tension to the fabric as it rolls from the drive tube. The retractable awning is unique in that it may be extended as needed and only as far as needed offering unlimited utility.
Is A Retractable Awning Right For My Property?
Retractable awnings are a great option for any homeowner or business looking to improve the aesthetics and usability of their outdoor space. For homeowners, awnings can increase a home’s value as well as provide needed shade during the summer months. Businesses can benefit from these awnings because they create more outdoor seating for customers as well as raising the storefront’s curb appeal.
Why Buy a Retractable Awning?
A retractable awning offers the ultimate in versatility. About 40 percent of the unwanted heat that builds up in your house comes in through windows. Although both exterior and interior shades can control this heat gain, exterior shades — items such as awnings, louvers, shutters, rolling shutters and solar screens — are more far effective, since they block sunlight before it enters the windows and doors. You can adjust the tilt of the awning up to 45 degrees from the straight out position. You can extend the awning as little or as much as you like.
Will I Save Money On Cooling Costs?
A properly installed awning can reduce heat gain in your home up to 65 percent on southern windows and as much as 77 percent on eastern and western windows. We have awnings on our home now because it was impossible for our air conditioner to keep up with cooling the westerly rooms. We now have cool rooms and a happy AC unit since my awning was installed, not to mention eliminating the fading issue with the furniture and paintings. You can read more about saving on cooling costs here.
How Do I Operate My Retractable Awning?
The most popular system is a manual operator using a simple removable hand brace. This system may be installed inside the home if needed or outside at either end of the awning. The installation of a tubular motor provides the maximum utility for a retractable awning. The motorization of your awning provides the additional option of a sun and wind sensor that automatically operates your awning as you program it. Imagine the awning senses the sun and out it goes to provide the shade you desire. The sun goes down and your awning automatically retracts safely waiting for the next time the sun comes out.
