"My wife and I had Chris over to look at our backyard patio and go over options for awning coverage. He was knowledgable and friendly and answered all our questions. We absolutely love our new awning! It's a game changer and we're able to spend more time in our backyard now. I highly recommend calling if you are looking at any type of awning!"
Retractable awnings offer numerous advantages for homeowners, including protecting your outdoor furniture against the elements. It can also help keep your deck in better shape since it adds a layer of protection against sun and precipitation.
Besides the type of awning, you’ll need to choose the type of cover. Your awning installation professional will review your options with you, including availability and costs. The types of covers you can choose from include:
Wood, which is durable but can be damaged easily by rainwater and fire
Cotton offers flexibility, weatherproofing, and easy cleaning
Canvas is highly durable and is a good choice for retractable awnings
Metal is sturdy but is prone to rust
Polyester is easy to clean and is a more breathable option
Polycarbonate is highly resistant to UV rays and is difficult to damage
While brick is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, it’s also an expensive siding material. Other great siding options to consider include vinyl siding, wood siding, and fiber cement siding. 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 lowest-maintenance siding options available.
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.
Hurricane fabric is a temporary form of hurricane protection that offers an alternative to boarding up windows or installing traditional storm panels. It is installed over windows, doors, and other openings before a storm. When installed properly, hurricane fabric is tested and proven to protect homes from Category 5 hurricanes, which can have winds over 157 miles per hour. It is intended 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 high-velocity debris. Compared to other options, hurricane fabric is more protective than hurricane window film. Boarding up windows is more labor-intensive and requires storing heavy plywood, while hurricane screens are permanently attached to your home. To further increase protection, you can take additional steps like securing outdoor items and fortifying your home's foundation.
The Holcombe, WI homeowners’ guide to patio cover services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Learn how to hire a fabric awning or patio cover installation pro. Find qualified contractors, ask the right questions, and get your project done right.
Consider these awning questions when installing or replacing a metal awning or patio cover. The answers can determine who you hire and how long the project takes.
