Q: Can awnings handle heavy rain?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s not a good idea to allow heavy rain to fall on your awning, as puddling can occur and overload the awning. Your awning should be able to handle a light rain, though you should allow it to dry out before retracting it or open it to dry as soon as the rain stops. As always, consult manufacturer guidelines for using and caring for your awning.</p></div>

Q: Which is less expensive: a pergola or an awning?

• <div><p>The average <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-build-pergola.htm">cost to build a pergola</a> ranges from <b>$2,200 to $6,400</b>, whereas the average cost of an awning ranges from <b>$1,400 to $4,400</b>, meaning that an awning tends to be less expensive to build or install than a pergola. Ultimately, the less expensive option depends on a few factors, including size, quality of materials used, and location.</p></div>

Q: What other materials should I consider?

• <div><p>While brick is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, it&rsquo;s also an expensive siding material. Other great siding options to consider include vinyl siding, wood siding, and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-replace-vinyl-fiber-cement-siding.htm">fiber cement siding</a>. Vinyl siding is likely to be the most affordable option, but wood siding can create a rustic aesthetic, and fiber cement is one of the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/low-maintenance-siding.htm">lowest-maintenance siding options</a> available.</p></div>

Question 1

Can awnings handle heavy rain?

Accepted Answer

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It’s not a good idea to allow heavy rain to fall on your awning, as puddling can occur and overload the awning. Your awning should be able to handle a light rain, though you should allow it to dry out before retracting it or open it to dry as soon as the rain stops. As always, consult manufacturer guidelines for using and caring for your awning.

Question 2

What is hurricane fabric and how effective is it for storm protection?

Accepted Answer

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Hurricane fabric is a temporary form of hurricane protection that offers an alternative to boarding up windows or installing traditional storm panels. Unlike hurricane screens, which are permanently attached to your home, hurricane fabric is installed over your windows and other openings before a storm.

In terms of effectiveness, hurricane fabric is tested and proven to protect homes from Category 5 hurricanes, which can have winds over 157 miles per hour. When installed properly, it is designed to block the majority of wind and rain and protect against water, debris, and projectile damage.

While the fabric is exceptionally durable, windows can still break if hit directly by flying debris at high velocity. However, it is a good protective measure against an impending storm. For comparison, hurricane fabric is more protective and durable than hurricane window film. While boarding up windows is easier than installing the fabric, it is more labor-intensive and requires storing heavy plywood.

To further increase the chances of your windows surviving a hurricane, you can take additional steps like securing outdoor items, elevating HVAC units, and fortifying your home's foundation.

Question 3

What is the cheapest way to enclose a patio for winter?

Accepted Answer

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Creating a screen room is one of the most cost-effective ways to enclose a patio so you can still use it in the winter. Most screen rooms aren’t insulated, so you’ll need to wrap up warm or use patio heaters in winter. Also, be aware they might not hold up well if you live in a location where heavy snow is common.