subject: Keeping Cool With Retractable Awnings [print this page] Retractable awnings are a modern, improved version of the traditional shades for exterior windows, patios, terraces, and pool areas of a home, and can even be fitted to a RV or a boat. The perfect summer accent, awnings have been proved to be the most energy-efficient way to shield your house from the heat of the sun.
As much a part of summer as a tall glass of iced tea, awnings always make a house look like a vacation home where the rich and famous go to escape the hot business district where they make their millions. Even on the hottest days, awnings that block the sun while letting in the breezes will make a patio into a pleasant place to eat lunch or dinner, and to linger over drinks and conversation as the twilight fades to dark.
By cutting the suns heat, glare, and harmful UV rays, awnings keep the summer heat from ever getting close enough to the interior of a house to raise the inside air significantly. Research shows that air conditioning costs are reduced by well over half in houses equipped with awnings on south and west facing windows.
Placing an awning over windows will make the inside of your home more comfortable at a lower cost, but the value of awnings outside is even more remarkable. Having an awning outside can turn a hot patio or terrace into a cool and comfortable sitting and outdoor party area that will make you feel like you are in the Caribbean. They also allow you to enjoy being outside while shielding you from harmful UV rays, and protect you from light rains as well.
The retractable mechanism makes the operation easy when awnings must be drawn back in times of strong wind, or even on cooler days when the seasons are changing; the sun may feel good for a time and then Indian summer days may make you retreat to the shade once more. There is something very satisfying about watching your awning stretch out over the area where your friends will soon gather, whether you are turning a crank or merely pushing a button on the remote control.
Awnings are by tradition alternating bold stripes of color and white or natural off white, but today there are sites with as many as 400 color and pattern choices. The mechanical works, either operated by cranking or by push button devices, are covered by long warranties, from five to over ten years to guarantee trouble-free operation. Optional sensors and timers can even signal the awnings to fold back and out according to the temperature or the time of day.
Retractable awnings are among the most fashionable ways to deflect the summer sun and keep your home cool both inside and out. With the energy savings and tax credits that can be claimed, this option is affordable as well.
