Mistakes to Avoid When Buying and Installing Awnings

An awning is a stylish addition to your home with innumerable benefits, from protection from inclement weather to increasing aesthetics and prolonging the life of your furniture. Buying an awning for your patio, windows, or door can be challenging due to the available designs, shapes, sizes, and colors. How do you narrow down your options? Learn four mistakes to avoid when purchasing an awning to make the right choice.

Incorrect Sizing

You may think that since you are familiar with the area requiring an awning, you can approximate the awning size correctly. Nevertheless, such estimation may be incorrect and result in an awning that is either too small or oversized. A small awning fails to cover the required area adequately, while an oversized one may sag, and you waste fabric.

Also, some people assume that all doors, windows, and patios have similar sizes and thus buy random awnings for them. While this may be true for doors and windows, patios and decks have different sizes and designs. As such, each requires a unique awning to meet its distinct features.

Avoid this mistake by measuring the area you need an awning to cover. Take into account the area's height and width, so you purchase the right-sized awning. If possible, call in an awning expert to take the measurements for the best outcomes.

Choosing the Wrong Awning

Awnings are available in different types, designs, and fabrics. The common types are fixed and retractable awnings. While a fixed awning is stationary and permanently appended to a structure, a retractable one is temporary, and you can disassemble at will.

The best awning type depends on your unique needs, available space, and local weather. For example, if your local region experiences inclement weather, a retractable awning may be suitable since you can pull it back to protect against weather damage. Contrarily, a fixed awning can be perfect for windows and entryways.

Regarding material, settle for a quality, durable, and easy to maintain one that can withstand distinct weather conditions. Water-resistant fabric is ideal instead of waterproof since it facilitates oxygen flow to prevent water damage. Lastly, the awning's design is fundamental. Choose a design that complements your home's décor and style and enhances its appearance.

Opting for the Cheapest Model

Many factors should be considered when purchasing an awning, including quality, ease of maintenance, fabric, and cost. Regrettably, some people make the mistake of only considering the price and settling for the cheapest type available.

While you may be on a budget, a cheap awning may get you the lowest quality awning or the least durable one. Also, you may get a high-maintenance awning, costing you more in the long run. Therefore, apart from the cost, choose an awning that is reliable, durable, and easy to maintain.

Disregarding Proper Installation

Although installing an awning may seem like an excellent DIY task, it is not always the best option. You won't like compromising anyone's safety and comfort due to a poorly installed awning. An awning weighs hundreds of pounds, and the last thing you would want is it collapsing on your guests as you enjoy the cool outdoors.

Therefore, it pays to contact an awning professional to not only install the awning but also advise on the best size and design for your unique property. Do not forget to vet the professional to be sure you are dealing with someone who has the necessary expertise and experience in the niche.

Awnings add glamor, elegance, and comfort to a home and extend the outdoor entertaining season. However, you must choose the right awning to enjoy these benefits and avoid the above mistakes. Contact Sunstate Awning for quality and durable custom awnings in Central Florida. We have 20 years of experience designing and installing residential and commercial awnings.