Living in Australia means you’re blessed with several months of sunshine and awesome weather. However, it also means that the design and structure of your home may leave your space exposed to harmful UV rays, making it impossible to enjoy the awesome weather.
A common solution that reduces exposure to harmful UV rays is to install the awnings Melbourne homeowners are investing in. Fortunately, there are a variety of design choices and styles to choose from to enhance the exterior of your home.
Awning Designs—Easier To Choose Than You Think
Modern designs and styles mean there’s no simple one-size-fits-all approach to installing awnings. What will work best for your home?
Our experts have shared a few tips to consider when you’re narrowing down your choices.
Review Your Home’s Structure
The shape, size and design of the awning most suited for your property will be largely influenced by the structure it’s attached to. You’ll also determine the size and length of the extension. Start off by asking questions such as:
- Should the awning provide shade for a small area in front of a door?
- Will it need to extend enough to cover an entertainment area?
- Do you want a large awning or a few smaller ones next to each other?
A feature that makes modern awnings a popular addition to residential, commercial and even school settings is that they can be customised to the size you need. There is currently a huge range of options that will easily cover balconies, terraces and courtyards.
Keep in mind that stretch awnings are perfect for long, narrow spaces. Pergola awnings on the other hand are better suited to wide-open areas such as outdoor entertainment spaces.
Choose the Perfect Colour
Fortunately, awning materials can be supplied in a variety of different colours. That means you can easily find a shade that complements your current outdoor design and décor. Some suggestions to help you discern the best hue for your new installation:
- In some instances, homeowners prefer a brighter shade that contrasts with their exterior wall paint.
- To reduce heat inside your home under the awning, opt for lighter colours such as yellow, white or beige. These reflect sunlight, assisting with the awning’s cooling effect. Darker colours have the opposite effect and will attract the sun to an area or the space directly behind it.
- Shades of browns and greens are often popular choices that blend in with the natural feel of an outdoor garden.
- Commercial properties often opt for bright colours to attract attention or identify the space by matching it to company colours.
Consider the Price
The type of awning you opt for will determine the cost. Keep in mind that a customised awning will cost more but will ultimately be an investment in your home’s resale value.
It’s always best to discuss your awning requirements with a professional installer, rather than picking from a catalogue. Their advice will help get the best value for your available budget.
Weather Conditions
Another crucial aspect to consider when you’re narrowing down potential options is climate. For example, do you often experience extreme weather? You wouldn’t want your awnings to be ripped off the structure by strong winds! Also, many Australian homeowners opt for awning solutions made with fabric that prevents sun-trap. These are guaranteed to provide the best shade levels needed.
Retractable Awnings
It’s also important to consider whether you want regular awnings or folding arm awnings Melbourne residents often prefer. The advantages of a retractable awning include:
- Energy efficient: Retractable awnings can be opened on sunny days to block excessive heat from entering your windows and doors. This means you’ll reduce the need for the AC to be on all the time. On cooler days, simply close the awning to allow the heat in.
- Redirects water from doors and windows: An open retractable awning tilts downward to shed any water from rainfall off the area it covers. This feature not only keeps the area under the awning dry but also protects the window door seals from perishing and developing mould and mildew.
- Durable: Keep in mind that retractable awnings last longer than their stationary counterparts because they can be retracted when not in use to prevent weather exposure and damage to the fabric. This not only keeps the awning looking newer for longer but will increase its lifespan. Closing the awnings during storms and harsh winds will also ensure that the frame and other hardware components are kept safe from weather damage.
Final Thought
Adding awnings to your outdoor space is an excellent way to cover an outdoor area in residential, commercial or even school and church settings. Opting for retractable versions ensures that you can regulate the light and heat that enter the space. Additionally, it’s also the perfect way to keep awnings safe from weather damage.
Now, use our expert tips to choose the best awnings for your space!