It has been observed that a person who can 'identify his requirements' and has the basic 'knowledge about the product' he intends to buy, is a successful shopper. These are two things everybody should know before investing or spending their bucks for any product.
You should adhere to the above statements while buying your awnings too. Point out your requirements and gather some knowledge about awnings so that you can bring home the right sunshade.
Identify your requirements:
If you do not know what you need and why you need it; you can not buy the right thing. Surprisingly, most people do not know what they need and often end up buying a different product that hardly satisfy their requirement.
When you decide that you need awnings for your home or office or commercial building, ask yourself the simple question: "Why do I need it?" And there should be one or more than one distinct answer to this question. Once you are sure about the goal of your sunshade, you can bring home the better product that enhances your living.
Sun control is the prime reason for buying awnings. However, protection from rain, privacy, allergen protection and energy saving are some of the other purposes people may like to install awning with the help of commercial awnings company.
Design and installation process often depend on the purpose of the awning. If sun control is only reason, you should go for materials that protect you from UV rays too. For rain control, a waterproof fabric and rustproof metal fixtures are needed. Thus your choice of product highly depends on your requirement. So always highlight your needs while buying your awning.
Know the product:
It is equally important to know the product that you intend to buy. Hence, before you hit the shops or online stores, do your homework as a buyer, know about the types of awnings, their purposes, the materials used to manufacture them and all other minute details. This helps you find the best solution for yourself.
For the sake of simplicity, let's divide awnings into three different parts:
1) Fabric
2) Metal frames and fasteners
3) Functionality
Fabric: Texture, style and color of the fabric define its look and define if it will match with your building or not. Most awning manufacturers offer a wide range of style and color for you to choose from. Make use of the opportunity. Visit all the varieties and then decide what will look best on your walls.
Fabrics are often treated to protect UV ray, molds, mildews and allergens too. Inquire if you can get your awning made of such materials.
Metal frames and fasteners: Awnings are either fixed permanently or allowed to hang with the supports like metallic arms, springs or wires. The main frame is also made of metal.
Since they are directly exposed to sunlight, air, water, dust and other elements, rust can easily form there when the metal is iron. Other metals can also undergo corrosion. Hence, properly treated metals like stainless steel should be used so that the awning lasts for long.
Functionality: Fixed and Retractable – two types of awnings are available. Retractable awnings are reported to last longer as they can be folded off during harsh weather. A retractable awning may be used all over the year as it offers more flexibility over fixed canopies and canvases.
Now you are an informed and knowledgeable consumer. Go and get your awning tailored for your needs.