Article Written By: Mark Walters
There are various types of awning but basically an awning can be defined as a cover that extends over a garden space, window or door. Most awnings on the market are made of weatherproof fabric but some come in materials such as aluminum. An awning can protect a part of your home from the elements, which may mean as a block against harsh sunlight in hotter countries or to provide protection from the wind and cold in cooler parts of the world. Awnings can also protect outdoors furniture from fading or water damage.Awnings are available to purchase in all kinds of size and shape, they may be used to provide cover for small or large areas. A typical type extends from the wall of a house out over a patio in a garden to create a sheltered seating area for outdoors gatherings. This type of awning is often motorized and worked via a remote control. Some awnings are freestanding and this type is also portable and often referred to as a canopy. Some smaller awnings extend over doors and windows to help control light levels and regulate temperature in hotter countries.A portable or freestanding awning can be constructed anywhere you like and whenever you please. They usually consist of the fabric cover, a frame and poles. You will see the two-pole kind being used by caravan owners to give them a sheltered seated area. Freestanding awnings with four poles may be called canopies and can be put up in gardens to create a covered area for a gathering or simply for more comfortable outdoors leisure time.Fixed awnings are stationary and are permanent. They are installed to a fixed position in the area of choice be that your garden patio or over a window or door. This type of awning usually comes in weatherproofed fabric and there are a wide variety of colors styles and shapes to choose from. It is also possible to find a fixed awning made in metal if you would prefer this option to fabric.Retractable awnings may be rolled away when not in use and many of this type come with sophisticated features to help you get the most from your awning. Some are fitted with integrated lights and a heating system meaning you can stay out for longer in the evenings. Another feature that many retractable awnings have are sensors that detect changes in the weather. If it becomes too windy the awning will automatically retract to prevent it from getting damaged and if the sun becomes strong it will come out to help provide shade and cool down the area.
This Article Has Been Published on Wed, 2 Feb 2011 and Read 316 Times