Outdoor living has become a trend today. For many homeowners, outdoor space is perfect for hosting family and friends but to beat weather elements like rains and scorching sun retractable awnings provide an option. Many people love their outdoor spaces to be as comfortable as indoors, especially when hosting friends or family. A retractable awning provides a solution for a cozy outdoor gathering.

Things to keep in mind if you are considering installing roll out awnings include value, longevity, and cost. The cost of retractable awnings varies depending on the size and quality of the canopy. Before you decide to buy a retractable awning, you need to do in-depth research for possible benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider upfront.

The pros

Value for money

Buying retractable awnings may seem costly at the start, but over time, you will realise you are saving a lot from reduced electricity bills. On a long-term basis, homeowners enjoy reduced energy consumption, which adds up to significant savings.

Protect outdoor furniture

Awnings provide shelter and protection for your outdoor furniture and also your indoor furniture. In a way, the shades provided outdoors will shield your indoor furniture, which could otherwise be exposed to harmful sunshine causing bleaching to fabrics.

They are long-lived

Non-retractable awnings may be cheaper but are prone to destruction by weather elements like strong winds, hailstorms, and more. In contrast, retractable awnings remain protected and last for a long time. Exposure to the intense sun in the case of non-retractable shelters causes them to bleach and lose colour while retractable ones will remain intact for a long time. In case of a whirlwind, retractable awning can be retracted to protect it from damages, while non-retractable awning might be torn apart easily.

The cons

Unaffordable

Retractable awnings are much more expensive compared to non-retractable canopies. The fact that it is far out of reach economic-wise is a reason to inspect if it is worthwhile and can deliver the benefits you are looking for. It is worth investing in awnings that will serve you for the next couple of years. Some dealers offer financing avenues for their customers because the prices are far out of reach for middle-income earners.

Replacing electric sensors

There are two types of retractable awnings; manual and motorised. Motorised options are more expensive but more convenient to use. Most of them come with a remote control to make them easy to operate. Furthermore, others have sensors to cause them to retract when they sense little showers. Manual types may become inoperable over time, while motorised models may need electric sensors replaced over time, adding to maintenance expenditure. When an electrical sensor fails, you might be forced to use it manually while you seek to replace.

Maintenance and cleaning

All types of retractable awnings need cleaning on a seasonal basis. Awnings will collect dust and dirt over time and need to be cleaned periodically. Without cleaning, retractable awnings can become a part of an eyesore instead of becoming a feature of beauty and attraction. Additionally, water can collect on the fabrics leading to mould growth, as for the metal parts, the debris needs to be removed regularly to keep them functioning correctly.

My verdict is motorised retractable awnings are efficient and effective, a better option to add outdoor space for modern homes.