There is no denying that an awning can add incredible value to your property. In fact, you may already know that we are big fans of this versatile product. Aside from functioning as a great cover in various outdoor spaces, they also look fabulous and instantly transform a home. Simply put, they are large swathes of fabric hooked onto a frame, which is then attached to a structure like your house. The fabric itself can vary, depending on the type you choose.
Awnings (as you’ll soon come to find), are available in a range of variations. From retractable to window, pivot-arm, folding-arm and straight-drop to name a few, the list goes on. Most helpfully, you will also find that these are each designed for specific purposes. Which means, you can customise your awning to suit the unique requirement.
In this article, we will be specifically focusing on retractable awnings. Of course the question of when the best time is to buy one may also have crossed your mind. However, the right time is dependent on your requirements, not set factors.
What To Look For When Buying Retractable Awnings
Here we take a look at some of the things you should consider when looking to buy retractable awnings:
The Seller: You want someone who walks the talk so to speak. Awnings are a sizeable investment for any property, so you want to be sure that the seller knows what they are doing. A good product with a bad seller will not be a good idea, because you have to also think about the support you receive. If something breaks and needs fixing, will they come around and do it for you? Remember that as important as the product is in itself, who you are buying it from makes all the difference.
Installation and Warranty: We do all our product installations ourselves, with the help of our in-house staff. However, this is not the case everywhere. Some outsource installations to individuals and companies, which is something to avoid. When shopping around for retractable awnings, you want someone who handles the installation as well. And when it is manufactured and installed by the same place, that is so much the better.
Additionally, be sure to also check on the warranty period of your awnings. There should be decent coverage on both the structure and the fabric.
Type of Operation: That is to say, manual or motorised. In this day and age of convenience and technology, motorised tends to be the preference. Even though the cost is generally more than that of a hand-crank, in the long run you may thank yourself. You can easily control your retractable awning with a remote or wall switch, so you have more flexibility. Great for those times when there is rough weather and you would rather be dry and comfortable indoors.
How to Determine the Right Time?
Really, any time could be deemed as the right time to buy an awning because they are just so useful. However, if you live in an area that is prone to wild weather, then sooner rather than later is best. It also helps to plan ahead, as you can prep for those scorching Summer months for instance. Instead of spending this time waiting around for quotes and installation dates (which during these months is near impossible), you could be putting your awning to good use.
Additionally, you may have been thinking about creating an outdoor room to use that unused space. Retractable awnings are perfectly suited for this purpose. You have the added benefit of retracting the awning as per your needs, making it versatile.
Conclusion
Overall, retractable awnings no doubt offer a wide range of benefits that are too good to ignore. They can definitely improve your quality of life, and help you make the most of your home. They are more expensive than your average awning, however, they also give you great value for money.
Be sure to thoroughly vet the fine print when it comes to structure, fabrics and set-up, and that installing an awning does not fall on you. As far as we are concerned, the entire process is handled by our in-house teams from assessment to installation, ensuring a job done right. Reach out to the team to find out more, and have someone come out to take a look at your needs.
