An awning can turn hot, unused space into a cool, welcoming spot. It cuts glare, protects furniture, and gives your home a tidy look from the street. The trick is matching the right size, fabric, and hardware to your space and weather. Use this simple plan to pick markiis that looks good and lasts.
Know your goal
Start with the job to be done. Are you cooling a patio at noon, keeping rain off a doorway, or shading a west window to lower cooling bills? List your must haves: shade, light rain cover, UV protection, privacy, or all of the above. Clear goals make every later choice easier.
Study your site
Spend one day watching sun and wind. Note the hottest hours, typical breeze, and any obstacles like gutters, lights, or trim. Measure wall width, mounting height, and the space you can project into without blocking paths or doors. If power is nearby, motorised controls become an easy win.
Pick the awning type
- Retractable: Great for patios and decks. Use it when you want shade on demand and open sky at other times. Choose manual crank for simplicity or motor for daily use and larger sizes.
- Fixed or canopy: Best for year round cover over doors, shopfronts, or windows. Sturdy and low maintenance.
- Freestanding or pergola canopies: Ideal when walls are not suitable for mounting or when you want a defined outdoor room.
- Drop arm and window awnings: Aim these at windows to block heat before it enters.
Choose fabric and frame
Fabric drives performance. Solution dyed acrylic resists fading and handles sun well. Polyester can be budget friendly and light. PVC coated fabrics offer strong water resistance for rainy areas. Look for high UV ratings, mildew resistance, and colourfast warranties.
For frames, powder coated aluminium is light and rust resistant. Steel is strong, but check for corrosion protection if you live near the coast. Ask about the quality of arms, springs, and brackets since these take the stress.
Get size and pitch right
Width should cover your use area with a small margin. Projection is the depth of shade you get. As a rule, larger patios need deeper projection to block low sun. Pitch is the slope. Set enough fall so light rain runs off rather than pooling. If doors open outward, confirm there is clearance under the fabric and the front bar.
Plan for local weather
Every awning has limits. If your area gets gusty afternoons, choose stronger arms, front support legs, or wind sensors that auto retract motorised units. In heavy rain regions, fixed canopies or pergola style systems with proper drainage will outlast light duty retractables. Snow load needs special designs or seasonal retraction.
Decide on controls and extras
Manual cranks are simple and cheap. Motors save time, reduce wear, and are worth it on larger spans. Add a wall switch, remote, or app control. Sun and wind sensors protect the system when you are away. Built in LED lights and heaters extend evening use. A removable valance at the front can block low sun and add privacy.
Follow this plan and you will choose an awning from Avaeksperdid that looks sharp, works hard, and earns its keep from day one.
