Installing a garden awning is a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living experience. Whether you’re seeking shade on a sunny day or shelter from light rain, an awning can provide you with a cosy spot to relax and enjoy your garden. So, you can make the most of your patio area, whatever the weather.
Before you embark on this undeniably beneficial home improvement project, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you’re installing the best garden awning for your home. With a range of awning designs to choose from, considering the below factors will help you to get the most out of this investment in your garden.
Purpose and Usage
The first and most important consideration is determining the primary purpose of your garden awning. Are you looking for shade for an outdoor dining table or lounge area? Or would you like to give your children somewhere to play where they’re protected from UV rays? Understanding how you plan to use the space beneath the awning will help you choose the right type and size of awning for your specific needs.
Location and Orientation
Where you install your new awning is critical. Consider the sun’s path in your garden throughout the day and the part of your patio area you use the most. Ideally, you’ll want to position the awning to provide shade during the hottest parts of the day and also shield against winds. Always take into account the proximity of nearby structures and trees as well, they may impact the awning’s installation.
Awning Type
There are several types of garden awnings to choose from, including retractable, fixed and pergola-style awnings. Each has its own set of advantages and limitations. Retractable awnings offer flexibility and are excellent for protection on hot sunny days, while fixed awnings provide more robust shelter and durability in winter months. Pergola-style awnings can be aesthetically pleasing and create a dedicated relaxation space. Select the type that best suits your functional and aesthetic preferences.
Material and Fabric
The choice of material for your awning frame and fabric is pivotal. Aluminium and steel are durable materials for the frame, making them the most popular options among homeowners. Whereas, the range of fabric options can vary from canvas to polyester. Consider factors like weather resistance, UV protection and ease of maintenance when selecting the fabric. Waterproof fabric is essential if you want to enjoy your garden even on rainy days.
Awning Size
Determining the right size for your garden awning is essential for both practicality and style. Carefully measure the patio area you want to cover and consider how much shade or shelter you realistically need. Keep in mind that if an awning is too small, it might not provide adequate shade or shelter when it’s needed most, while one that’s too large can overwhelm your outdoor space and be unnecessarily expensive.
Manual or Motorised Operation
Decide whether you want a manual or motorised awning. Manual awnings are operated by hand, often by turning a crank. Whereas motorised awnings can be controlled by a wall switch or remote control and operated at the touch of a button. Motorised awnings offer more convenience and are suitable for larger or hard-to-reach installations. Consider your preference, ease of use and budget when making this choice.
Budget and Installation Costs
As with any home improvement project, you need to consider your budget for both the purchase and installation of a garden awning. Prices can vary quite considerably based on the type, size and features of the awning. For instance, incorporating LED lights into the awning cover can be an additional expense. Don’t forget to factor in installation costs, which may include professional installation fees too.
Installing Garden Awnings in Milton Keynes
There is no denying that installing a garden awning can transform your outdoor area into a comfortable and versatile living space. By carefully considering everything mentioned above, you can make an informed decision for your home and ensure that your new patio awning is a valuable addition to your garden, providing shade, shelter and enjoyment for years to come.
If you’re searching for a company that supplies garden awnings in Milton Keynes, be sure to explore the Cambridge Awnings website. We offer a vast range of designs, many of which can be customised to suit your needs, and we can guide you through the process of finding your perfect garden awning. Your project will be in very good hands with our highly-trained and experienced team, who will ensure we exceed your expectations.
To get some fabric samples or find out more about our awnings, get in touch with us today.