Which Retractable Awning is Right for Me?
Six questions to ask yourself when choosing an awning
So, you’ve decided to purchase a SunSetter retractable awning. You’ve made an excellent choice—a choice made by more than a million people who are now getting more out of life outdoors.
SunSetter offers a range of awning options. Which is right for you? Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking for the right awning for your home.
How will you be using your awning?
Will you be using your awning as a place to sip a cup of coffee in the morning? Or, will you be creating a party space? These are important questions because they will affect how large you want your awning. Widths range from 8 to 20 feet and projections range up to 13 feet. That’s a huge range of areas that can be covered by an awning. Pick an awning size that matches the amount of space you need.
Who will be using the awning?
Will you be the primary operator of the awning? If so, choose the control method that works for you—either manual or motorized. But, if you will have multiple people operating the awning, a motorized option is probably the right choice. A motorized awning can be operated with a simple remote control. At the touch of a button, someone can extend or retract the awning. It’s a control system that anyone can operate. Users who might not have the strength to operate a manually cranked awning will love the convenience of a motorized awning.
How often will I be using my awning?
If you are extending your awning only a few times per year for special gatherings, a manual control system might be just fine. However, if you’re going to be using the awning on a regular basis, consider a motorized awning. A motorized awning lets you operate the awning with minimal effort, making you more likely to use your awning and allowing your SunSetter protected patio to become an integral part of your home.
What are the weather challenges in my area?
Does your area have strong winds that kick up without much warning? A motorized awning is a good choice—hit a button and your awning is retracted and safe. Do you have extreme sun or ice and cold? You might want to choose a semi-cassette, an aluminum cover that protects the rolled fabric when it’s retracted. It’s excellent protection for your awning investment. Do you live in an especially rainy environment? Choose a laminated fabric that is completely waterproof.
Do I want my awning to blend in with my home’s exterior—or do I want it to pop?
SunSetter retractable awnings come in a wide variety of fabrics, including a huge range of fabrics that let you match your awning to your home’s existing exterior. Many people choose an awning that matches their home, but some people opt for a bold fabric that really stands out—adding a festive quality every time the awning is extended. The choice is up to you.
Do I need an awning on a location not adjacent to my home?
If you have an area of your yard where you’d like an awning but have no building to mount it to, consider a SunSetter Oasis freestanding awning. These awnings can be placed anywhere there’s a flat surface.
Find All the Options
Visit SunSetter.com to see the full range of retractable awning options as well as EasyScreens and EasyShades. There is something for every patio, every budget, and every lifestyle.