4 things you need to know before buying an awning
At Sahara we want you to have all the information you need to choose the best awning for your home.
The days of blankets and heating are coming to an end. As the weeks go by, we will start to notice the temperatures rising and the warmer days are approaching. Motivated by the fact that we are now spending a lot more time indoors, today we will take a look at five things you need to know before deciding on the ideal awning for your home.
Before leaving
When considering the installation of an awning in your home, there are some factors that are important to consider. For example, the exterior appearance is expected to be in keeping with the rest of the balcony or terrace, as well as the functionality and practicality it may have. Even if we have a small area, thanks to an awning we could gain a new living space, protect ourselves from the prying eyes of a neighbour and save energy, thanks to the temperature regulation that this protection system produces.
1. Where are we going to install it?
The type and fabric of the awning depends on the answer to this question. If you are looking to shade your window, the ideal awning is the awning fabric. Dakel Chestwhich has an opening of up to 180° and can be installed on the opening, wall or ceiling.
If, on the other hand, we are looking to cover a larger space such as a terrace and create a new space that will also protect us in case of rain, our best option is an extendable awning such as the Turpanwhich adapts easily to large dimensions thanks to its structure and the solidity of its arms.
2. What type of awning can I install?
As we mentioned in the previous point, there are different types of awnings according to the place where we are going to install it. We are going to know the most common and functional models according to our space. This way we will be able to choose based on the characteristics of each one.
Vertical awning.
Visually it may look like a roller blind, but its functionality is much more complete. Its wind-resistant structure is ideal for use on the sides of terraces. Thanks to its operation, it does not take up extra space as it opens and closes completely vertically.
Extendable awning
They are characterised by their stability. Their arms form two lateral supports that fold to close when the fabric is rolled up to retract the awning.
Straight point awning.
Ideal for balconies, windows or street level establishments as it can be installed on walls, ceilings and other structures. Its opening ranges from 0° to 180°, so it can be adapted to whatever the direction of the sun hitting the awning at that moment.
Awnings such as the Dakel Chest have a structure that serves as a cover when the awning is fully retracted, this extends the life of the system as it protects it from any inclement weather that could wear or corrode the parts.
3. what are the best materials and colours?
There is a wide variety of materials available on the market when it comes to sun shading systems. The most resistant fabrics are synthetic fibres, such as polyester and acrylic, which guarantee up to 80% waterproofing of the fabric, in contrast to natural fibres, such as cotton, which are usually more sensitive and subject to mildew formation due to rain or humidity. Another good alternative is PVC, which is the most suitable for rain as it is 100% waterproof.
There are multiple possibilities in terms of colours, the fabrics used by Nevaluz in its awnings have different characteristics depending on the type. Those such as the Genil screen have a 95% protection against UV rays, which can lower the temperature of the environment by up to 6°.
4. Manual or automatic mechanism?
The awning structure has a mechanism for opening and closing the structure, this can be manual or automated.
When to choose an awning with a manual mechanism?
The choice of a manually operated awning is primarily motivated by cost savings.
It is much better to save on the opening and closing mechanism (manual or automated) than on the quality of the awning mechanism or its fabric. Because it is the quality of the fabric that will determine the life of the awning.
The manual mechanism may be less practical than an automated one, but it is still effective.
Manual mechanisms are not usually recommended when covering large surfaces, as the opening and closing manoeuvres could be more cumbersome due to the weight of the awning. For this reason, this type of system is usually recommended for solar protection of windows, balconies or small terraces.
When to choose an awning with an automated mechanism?
Practicality, comfort and versatility are characteristics that can be obtained by choosing a mechanised awning. Automated awnings have an electric mechanism for opening and closing. They can be operated by remote control or using a home automation system.
A motorised awning can be more convenient than a manual awning, particularly when it comes to large awnings. In addition, the motor closes the awning more quickly and stably in situations such as a strong wind flow or hailstorm.
