Two of the most popular options for garden upgrades are awnings and conservatories. Both can be a functional and stylish addition to a home, but they serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. If you’re torn between adding an awning or a conservatory to an outdoor space, it’s essential to consider needs, budget, and the space you have. Careful consideration of these factors will help determine which option best enhances the home and outdoor lifestyle. In this post, we compare both options, highlighting why awnings for gardens might be the ideal choice for a home.
Understanding Awnings and Conservatories
An awning is a simple, retractable structure that provides shade and shelter from the elements. Typically made of fabric, metal, and other durable materials, awnings are installed above windows, doors, or outdoor spaces to offer protection from the sun, rain, and wind. Awnings are versatile and come in various designs, sizes, and colours to suit different outdoor space’s. Awnings are designed to extend living spaces, creating a shaded area that can be used for dining, relaxation, or entertaining, all while offering protection from the weather. In addition, an awning is that it can be easily retracted when not needed, allowing you to control the amount of sunlight or shade you want at any given time.
A conservatory is a permanent structure attached to a home, typically made of glass with a frame that can be wood, uPVC, or aluminium. It’s an extra room built to be an extension of your living space but designed specifically for enjoying natural light and being connected to the outdoors. While conservatories are a great option for creating a year-round living space, they do come with a higher price tag and may require planning permission, especially if you’re extending your home. Since conservatories are made mostly of glass, they can sometimes get too hot during the summer months or too cold in winter, unless you install heating or cooling systems.
Awnings and Conservatories: The Key Differences
Cost and Installation
Awnings are generally much more affordable than conservatories. Awnings are simpler structures that don’t require major construction or planning permission in most cases, making them a more budget-friendly option for most homeowners. In contrast, building a conservatory can be a significant investment, both in terms of the initial cost and the ongoing maintenance costs. Conservatories also typically take longer to build, as they involve more complex construction and may require professional help for installation. For those who want an instant, cost-effective solution, an awning is the ideal choice.
Flexibility and Versatility
Awnings offer greater flexibility compared to conservatories. With retractable or adjustable options, you can easily control how much sun or shade you want, depending on the time of day or weather conditions. If you prefer full sunlight in the morning but want shade in the afternoon, simply retract the awning. This level of control over your outdoor environment makes awnings highly versatile and ideal for gardens. Conservatories, however, are permanent structures. While they provide more space and are perfect for year-round use, they can’t be adjusted in the same way an awning can.
Space Requirements
A conservatory demands more space and represents a larger commitment to garden layout. Installation requires a flat, clear area, and as a permanent extension of the home, it may occupy a significant portion of the garden. Awnings offer a more compact and adaptable solution. They are suitable for smaller gardens where a large conservatory may not be feasible. Awnings can also be mounted over existing features like decking, patios, or doors to optimise garden usage without consuming excessive space.
Why Awnings Are a Great Addition to a Garden
Awnings are a fantastic addition to an outdoor space for many reasons. Not only are they cost-effective and easy to install, but they also offer flexible and adjustable shading options. Whether hosting a family barbecue, enjoying a quiet afternoon with a book, or having a meal outside, an awning provides the ideal shade and shelter. Awnings also come in various styles and colours, enabling the choice of a design that ideally complements a home and garden. Their retractable nature allows for space usage according to individual preferences, providing the option to enjoy sun or relax in shade as required.
How Cambridge Awnings Can Help
While both awnings and conservatories offer unique advantages, for those seeking an affordable, flexible, and space-efficient garden solution, an awning is often the preferred choice. Garden awnings provide shade, protection from the elements, and the ability to adapt outdoor spaces to individual needs. Here at Cambridge Awnings, we offer a range of high-quality awnings designed to suit diverse garden styles and different needs. Our expert team provides guidance throughout the entire process. Contact us today to explore how an awning can transform an outdoor space and help you enjoy your garden this summer.