We are all familiar with retractable awnings . They’re popular in countries all around the world. They look stylish, they’re easy to use and they offer practical benefits, too. But while retractable awnings certainly have their place, they are not an appropriate choice for every setting.
Because they’re designed to fold or roll out of the way when not in use, retractable awnings cannot be as heavy or tough as permanently-installed awnings. They’re intended only to provide shade from the summer sun, not protection from inclement weather.
Here are five examples of good places to use a retractable awning:
1. Condo association community areas.
Retractable awnings are prefect for poolside sitting or picnic areas. They’re especially important if your residents include children.
As adults, we’re much more aware than in the past of the dangers the sun poses to our skin. The American Cancer Society is particularly concerned that we take steps to protect our kids when they’re playing outside. Some states and school districts actually require shaded play areas.
Outfitting your condo’s community outdoor areas with retractable awnings shows you care.
2. Backyard deck or apartment terrace.
Whether you have lots of space or the tiniest of patios, a retractable awning can transform that area from unpleasantly hot on a summer day to refreshingly comfortable and inviting. Your awning can shade anything from a couple of chairs or a barbeque to extensive seating or eating areas.
If your apartment is several stories up, your terrace can feel even hotter when the sun’s heat reflects off nearby buildings. You’ll appreciate the shade of a retractable awning even more.
3. Summer café or bar.
People love to dine, drink and linger with friends outdoors when the weather is nice. Whether your restaurant is along the boardwalk at the beach or the sidewalk in Manhattan, retractable awnings can expand your summer seating area. Outdoor seating areas attract more patrons, too, because they simply look more inviting. It’s all good for your bottom line.
Retractables are also useful for protected areas such as a back deck or interior courtyard.
4. Shading windows when the summer sun is beaming down.
At home or at your business, awnings can come in especially handy when it’s just plain hot and sunny. That’s because they do double duty. While they’re shading your outdoor area they’re also providing shade for your interior. Awnings can keep indoor rooms noticeably cooler, saving on expensive air conditioning. They can protect carpet, drapes and furniture – or valuable store merchandise – from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays.
5. NYC landmark buildings.
If the City of New York has declared your building an official landmark, it’s likely you’re required to use retractable awnings. After all, they’re historically authentic. Unfortunately, modern building codes and common sense are more attuned to safety, which means retractable awnings aren’t necessarily the safest choice for your location.
You can resolve this conundrum by having your awning company design a permanent installation that looks like an old fashioned retractable. You get the quaint look NYC requires but the safety and durability assured by appropriate construction methods and materials.
A couple of caveats, if you’re considering retractable awnings:
As we’ve already noted, retractables are not for windy or other high-stress areas. If it’s too windy for you to feel comfortable sitting outside without the awning, it’s too windy for a retractable awning. Wind can damage the fabric or structural elements, risking injury to you or your home or business.
You should keep your awning securely closed if it’s windy or when you aren’t using it. Keeping it clean – free of leaves, dirt, sand, etc. – will help it last longer, too.
Used in the right locations, retractable awnings can help you stay cool in the summer. And they look good doing it.
Photo Credit: Cappellmeister via Flickr
