Awnings are a very old technology, as evidence suggests that they were around in ancient Egypt. They have become less popular recently, however, because an increasing number of homes have air conditioning and, therefore, do not require this additional shade to keep them cool. Homeowners should keep in mind that they can keep their energy costs down by investing in these long lasting home additions, since they keep the sunlight away from your windows and reduce your dependence on air conditioning throughout the summer.
Awning Types
There are many different awnings from which to choose, so you will have some choices to make before you begin. Retractable patio models extend out from your home and can cover your outdoor area. They can also be set up to cover shade your windows, keeping your home cooler. The great thing about these models is that they can be extended or retracted with a hand crack, so you do not have to leave them up constantly. Other models are purely for your windows, as they extend out from your house and provide shade all day long. Some of these versions can also be retracted, which comes in handy if you want some natural light in the mornings.
Save Money
When you make the decision to install awnings on your home, you could expect to save up to 50 percent on your cooling costs. Although the savings vary from house to house, people are now starting to realize that there are multiple ways to keep their houses cool. By blocking your windows for part of the day and keeping the direct sunlight out of your home, you can keep your home cool naturally. As a result, your air conditioner will not have to work as hard and your energy bills will be lower as a result.
Prevent Damage
Another great benefit of shading your home is that the sunlight us unable to damage things within your house. Sunlight can quickly damage your hardwood floors and wooden furnishing by fading and drying it out. The more sunlight you have coming through your windows, the faster you can expect this to occur. By putting some shade up around your windows, you can limit the damage that is done and, therefore, can save money on repair and replacement costs.
Eclipse Shading Systems is one of the nation’s leading suppliers of deck, patio, and window awnings. The company’s website at Domain has much more information on their impressive line of products.