Our windows play an important role in how our home’s exterior looks and functions. When it comes to updating your home in Boston to increase the value, or if you’re just ready for an update, your windows are a great place to start. For homeowners who want to make a statement regarding their home’s curb appeal, awnings could be the best accessory for a home.
Awnings have long been a top exterior home accessory for both looks and practicality. Awnings were first introduced in the 1890s, and continue to show no sign of going anywhere. Awnings provide a look that complements the natural beauty of your home as well as provides practical benefits such as energy efficiency and water resistance.
In This Article
Practical Benefits
Awnings do much more than add style to your home. Awnings also have several practical benefits that any homeowner could benefit from. These benefits include:
- Energy efficiency. Energy efficiency continues to be one of the top factors that homeowners consider when making improvements to their homes. Energy efficiency helps us lower our impact on the environment, and save money on heating and cooling costs. An awning helps to keep your AC working as effectively as possible. An awning can help reduce heat absorption by 75%, keeping your rooms cooler without your AC having to work harder. Many homeowners have experienced relying on their cooling elements less after installing awnings.
- Avoid water damage. Water damage can cause significant problems in your home. This is because it can often go undetected for quite some time. It is important to stay on top of your home maintenance to help prevent water damage. Awnings can help by protecting the home’s exterior, especially the doors, windows, and window sills. Awnings help to prevent any rain from leaking into your windows. Awnings are also a nice touch for those who would like to keep their windows open during a light rainstorm and still be protected from rain entering the home.
- UV ray protection. Our home’s exterior is constantly bombarded by UV rays. There is no doubt that getting sunlight is beneficial, but it does still create damage for both the exterior and interior of our home. Sunlight can fade carpets, furniture, and wallpaper. Awnings provide the perfect middle ground of shade and sun to help protect the interior of your home from UV damage.
- Outdoor space utilization. When the weather is nice, there is a natural pull to spend as much time outside as possible. Many homeowners invest in outdoor furniture and accessories to enjoy the hot summer sun. Unless you have the proper shading, staying out for long can be difficult. It’s easy to quickly become uncomfortable when exposed to direct sunlight. Awnings provide the cooling shade you need to be able to enjoy the sunshine and good weather all season long.
- Curb appeal. You want your home to look good, especially if you are ever considering resale. Awnings are a timeless, classic look that can elevate your existing style. This can immediately grab the attention of those looking for their next home. Awnings also help with the overall energy efficiency of your home, which is a major selling point for many homeowners today.
Style Benefits
Awnings tend to either come in stripes or solid colors. Stripes provide a more playful, fun look that is adaptable to a multitude of home styles. Solid colors work best on your Boston homes that have a lot of exterior detail or are looking to maintain a more formal appearance. You can choose between a traditional hand crank option or a mechanical retracting mechanism. Both provide an easy method of extending your awning when you need it and retracting it when you don’t. Most awnings have a frame that can collapse against the building to prevent any damage if the weather becomes too severe, such as heavy rain and strong winds.
Material Types
You have a wide range of options when it comes to selecting the right material option for you. When selecting your awning material, your options include:
- Cotton canvas. This material is the most traditional selection when it comes to awnings. It is also one of the most affordable options. It is important to consider that while this may be one of the cheaper options, it will usually only last for 3-5 years. It is important to consider the overall return of your investment.
- Vinyl-coated. This material has a hard, shiny finish. The finish helps to aid in its overall sun-darkening properties. This option is also washable, which is great for those who worry about selecting a lighter color due to dirt buildup. This option does cost a bit more than cotton canvas, but when properly maintained, it can last up to 10 years.
- If you are looking for a stronger material, you may want to choose polyester for your awning material. This material is strong, mildew resistant, and available in vinyl or acrylic coating.
- This fabric resembles traditional cotton canvas, but is more durable and long-lasting. This material is fade-resistant with a non-shiny finish. Acrylic awnings can last for up to 12 years, making them a great choice for long-term material options. Homeowners also love this option because it is available in several different colors and stripe patterns.
Give Awnings a Try
There is a reason that awnings continue to be a popular exterior option since the early 1900s. It is an effective way to further protect the exterior of your Boston home while still looking attractive to the eye. It is a stylish, customizable way to increase the energy efficiency of your home, as well as help protect you from water and sun damage. Awnings can help make enjoying your outdoor spaces even more enjoyable. If you’re interested in an awning, but not sure if it would work for your home, don’t hesitate to contact your local window expert. They will be able to provide you with all the information and experienced advice you need. They will be able to help you through material selection, installation, and maintenance.