The very first awnings to exist were traditionally used on elaborate glass shop frontages in the 1800s as a way to passively cool the interior of buildings, whilst also protecting goods from the damaging effects of the sun.
Today, awnings are growing in popularity because not only do they offer additional privacy – particularly in built-up areas – but they can transform any garden into a comfortable, stylish and functional outdoor living space. We spoke to Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds (UK) Ltd to gain an understanding of five ways that patio awnings can enhance outdoor living.
Creating Outdoor Comfort
Regardless of the time of year, the sun constantly emits a source of energy known as ultraviolet (UV) radiation that is damaging to our skin. Although you can’t physically see or feel UV rays, the temperature outside isn’t always a true reflection of whether you are at risk of burning – you can still burn on cool or cloudy days.
Inadequate sun protection can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer; however, the installation of an awning provides essential shade from sunlight (heat and glare/bright light) and can keep your skin protected from sun exposure (typically 97.5% minimum UV block) when the sun’s UV’s rays are the strongest, allowing you to use your outdoor space sensibly, even during the hottest months.
Expanding Entertainment Areas
A well-positioned patio awning can act as an extension of the roof of your property, creating an additional shaded entertainment area that’s ideal for hosting family BBQs and gatherings.
When choosing the size of your awning, you will need to consider a number of factors. If the space will be used primarily for outdoor dining, a projection of 2.5m is adequate for a small dining table, however, for a larger family or for those who like to entertain, a minimum projection of 3m is required.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Essentially a fabric canopy that attaches to the side of a building and extends and retracts using spring tensioned folding arms which keep the fabric taut at every position, retractable awnings are considered to be more versatile than other shading systems including gazebos and parasols.
In addition to the adequate shelter, privacy and instant style they add to any property, awnings also provide a much-needed cooling effect to the indoor room adjacent to where they are positioned, ensuring a comfortable living space (both inside and out) during the summer and winter months, whilst filtering UV rays to stop furniture from fading.
Stylish Outdoor Living
Awnings are continuing to rise in popularity as more homeowners are seeking quality products that allow them to utilise their garden by helping to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
Suited to both classic and contemporary properties, awnings add a striking new dimension to any façade and can be customised using a number of different materials and colours to match any style. Finishing touches such as LED lighting and infra-red heating can contribute towards the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor space whilst helping to create a warm and pleasant environment, all year round.
Smart Integration
Premium and modern awnings are motorised (using a remote control) – or even app controlled on your smartphone. A motorised awning that can be adjusted at just the touch of a button is the ideal solution for those who love to ‘live life outdoors’, with optional weather (wind/sun) sensors allowing for automatic hands free positioning and operation.
A professional and expert installation is just as important as the quality of the awning itself. Bespoke awnings are made to measure to suit the property in which they are being installed and the installation process can take anything from a few hours to a full day.
As Stuart explains: “Not only do awnings offer an abundance of benefits when socialising, entertaining and relaxing outdoors, but they are a quick, easy and affordable way to help create a comfortable, sustainable home with lower running and maintenance costs."
"If it’s sunny, a retractable awning will work perfectly as a barrier against harmful UV rays, and if it’s raining, it will provide adequate shelter – at the touch of a button – making any outdoor space comfortable, all year round."
"Our luxury awnings are both practical and stylish and can be designed and built to each client’s exact requirements. Essential for a healthy living environment, this particular shading solution has the ability to enhance the overall outdoor living experience for any homeowner.”
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