The world is getting more and more specialized. If you ever looked for advice on any topic, you might have found the famous, regurgitated phrase: “Better consult it with a professional”. Is it really necessary to consult each decision with an external consultant? Understandably, we seek advice on the financial return of investments, health, relationships, business expansion, house constructions, and many more topics. However, it seems we take things too far. Contrary to some other articles, choosing your first awnings can be done without an external advisor. This guide will help you do it on your own. Follow these steps to make your decision easier.
Which Space Needs Awnings
Awnings can be cast over many different areas: patios, decks, entrances, restaurant gardens, private gardens, caravans. Be clear about where you need it and then, measure how much space you have. If your main goal is to escape the sun, then have in mind that the awning needs to be larger than the area you want to protect and wider than any window. There are applications to check the changing sunlight during the day, which is helpful to estimate how much shade you will gain. The standard length of arms falls between 1.5 meters to 4 meters. It’s possible to customize it individually.
Consider the Type of Awnings
Awnings come in a few types. Fixed or retractable. The former offers more possibilities to design, the latter can be put away in case of bad weather, like rapid storms. If you lean to retractable, you can choose from automatic or manual folding mechanisms. Both will successfully serve the purpose, but the automatic control will add more comfort to your daily life, especially that the awnings can be programmed to adjust themselves according to the weather. Then, you don’t have to worry, when you’re out of the house.
Choose the Design and the Fabric
This decision is entirely up to you, you can choose plain colours, patterns, stripes, or transparent. Most companies, like Shades Awnings London offer various shapes: convex, concave, dome, open wing, half barrel, open barrel, or traditional. The most common fabrics are polyester, acrylic, or micro-perforated fabrics. The first one is the cheapest, but it’s not UV-resistant. Therefore, it will find its application only if awnings aren’t used daily. Otherwise, it will get discoloured quickly. Acrylic and micro-perforated fabrics are UV-resistant, durable, and rot-resistant. Both of them are excellent choices, even though micro-perforated fabrics offer better air circulation, which may be a substantial gain in heat.
Valence or Not?
Valence is a piece of material that hangs loose at the end of awnings. The whole purpose of it is to offer extra sun protection when the sun is low. As it changes the look of awnings, consider whether it fits the style you’re looking for. Mobile applications to check the sunlight can be useful to determine whether extra sun protection is necessary.
Ordering Your First Product
If you’ve considered all these questions. I believe you are well-prepared to make your first purchase. Now, you’re an informed customer that has an idea of what the options are and how they can meet your needs. It’s time to find a reputable company. Checking the online reviews will save you stress and hassle. Many companies offer the installation service, but it’s optional. You have one more decision to make, good luck.
