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It’s best to keep your awning retracted if winds are 25 miles per hour or more to make sure your awning doesn’t sustain irreparable damage due to wind. Some awnings can take winds up to 30 miles per hour without any damage, but it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s guidance. A good rule of thumb is if it’s too windy for you to comfortably stand outside, it’s time to bring the awning in.

It’s best to opt for a lightweight roof, as a heavy roof adds a lot of weight and pressure to the support posts and hardware and destabilizes the structure. Vinyl is a good, lightweight option, as is a nice open trellis, louvered aluminum or vinyl slats, or fabric panels. Clear polycarbonate is another great option that offers seamless shelter and additional UV protection without completely obscuring the sunshine. You can also choose retractable coverings or an awning that you only use in wet weather or when you need additional shade.

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.

Fascia and soffits differ in their location and design, but fascia vents are the most popular alternative to soffits. These are a bit more hidden than soffits, but depending on the structure of your roof, they can cost more to install and maintain. They are also installed around the entire roof, whereas soffits can be placed only where you need them or, if the aesthetics bother you, somewhere out of sight.