Spring and summer are certainly when we most think about shade, but there are other weather conditions to think about, too, when you’re looking at awning designs. Unless you want something you can dismantle once the weather cools, you should focus on awning designs that are durable enough to withstand winter weather, too.
Fabrics and framing define awning designs.
Darker colors won’t make it warmer under your awning, but the fabric you select may make a difference. Consider the underside of your canopy, too. You can get fabrics that are a lighter color underneath, so you have shade without darkness.
Many fabrics are specifically designed to be UV-resistant, which is especially important to protect people, furnishings and whatever is inside your windows from the sun’s damaging rays. That’s important year-round, not just during the hottest summer days.
Most fabrics are water-repellant but not completely waterproof, although there are some exceptions – one more reason to think beyond spring to identify awning designs that will perform best for you.
You should also consider wind, especially if you’re contemplating a retractable awning. Generally speaking, if the breeze is light enough for you to feel comfortable sitting outside, your awning will be comfortable, too. Otherwise, it’s probably too windy for retractable awning designs. They just aren’t as strong as permanently-installed canopies.
Local building codes and covenants often specify structural requirements for awning designs, but they can also limit colors or styles or other visual elements. Check your city’s regulations about drainage, too, because that can affect awning designs.
Consider the magic of digital printing.
Weather-resistant doesn’t have to mean boring. With digital printing, you can create awning designs that are literally anything you want. You can have color that exactly matches your logo, building trim or tablecloths. And you can put any graphics anywhere on your awning. Or all over it.
Digitally printed graphics not only look better, they’re weather-tough. Not just for spring sunshine and showers but beaming-hot summer sun and frigid winter temperatures that come with pelting rain and snow. The spring-fresh look of your awning designs will keep looking great, all year long.
Spring cleaning isn’t just for your house.
Whatever awning designs you choose, your canopy will last longest if you take good care of it. And a clean awning is ready for any weather. A periodic wipe-down with a damp cloth is easy and can make a tremendous difference, especially if you’re located in a grimy, gritty, damp or salty area. If you have an existing awning, now’s the time to inspect it, clean it and fix any small problems.
Just say no to DIY.
Spring brings out the handyman (or woman) in many people. But you should resist the temptation to install any type of awning designs yourself. It’s not as easy as it may seem, and improper installation can lead to poor performance or breakage. You could also go wrong buying awning designs online or off-the-shelf, as they may not meet your weather-resistance needs.
Whatever you choose, you want awning designs that will provide a good return on your investment. Second-rate materials or iffy construction may cost a bit less up front, but you can count on problems later on – repair costs and tatty looks that reflect poorly on your business. A quality awning company uses consistently top-quality fabrics and framing materials. And they have skilled craftsmen who can manufacture your awning to the highest standards.
A professional expert will give you personalized advice and share creative ideas about awning designs. You’ll get an awning you love – one that’s tailored exactly to your space and usage specifications and your specific location. One that provides an eye-catching, just-for-you look.
And with a pro on your side, you’ll know you’ve chosen the best materials for awning designs that match your weather conditions – not just for spring, but for years to come.
Photo Cedit: jenny downing via Flickr
