Awnings: Is This the Exterior Window Treatment for You?
You take care to make sure your windows are dressed on the interior, choosing the perfect draperies or curtains, but to complete your window treatments, don't forget the exterior side of the window. Window awnings can add an additional architectural element to your home or business. Awnings are fabricated from several different materials, and the one you choose will determine the overall look.
Awnings can also reduce energy costs by limiting the amount of sunlight that enters. Solar heat is quite powerful in some areas of the country, and reducing your cooling costs is a great benefit. The following information will show you the options you have when deciding on which type of awning is right for you.
Acrylic Awnings
Awnings made from acrylic or another material and then coated with acrylic are good for areas that receive a lot of sun. They don't fade quickly. They are also good at resisting mildew in areas with high humidity. They are thick and durable, and available in a wide variety of vibrant colors.
Vinyl Awnings
Vinyl awnings are usually a little thicker than an acrylic awning. They are good in areas with high humidity as well as prone to high winds since they are a bit more durable than acrylic. There are generally not as many design options, however they are available in the basic colors and designs most home and business owners are looking for.
Metal Awnings
Steel and aluminum awnings aren't as popular as they used to be in the last century, but they have several advantages over other materials. They are long-lasting and durable. Many metal awnings last for decades, needing only the occasional coat of paint. They can be painted in whatever color you choose to coordinate with your home or business.
They can also withstand more than just the sun; they can handle driving rain, sleet, hail, and mountains of heavy snow. This makes metal awnings a particularly good choice in northern climates or climates with weather extremes, such as hurricanes. Metal awnings with a southern exposure can also be easily removed for the winter months, allowing the sun to come in and help heat your home, reducing your energy costs.
Fiberglass Awnings
Awnings fabricated from fiberglass are almost as durable as metal awnings, however, they likely won't last for decades. They are lightweight, a bonus if you will only be using them seasonally. The color is molded all the way through, meaning painting is never required. They are also fairly opaque, meaning they won't block the light and heat 100 percent like most other window awnings do.
To learn more about your options, visit resources like http://www.dschultzwallcoverings.com.
