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Most homes can benefit from the placement of an awning of some kind in their outdoor areas. However, there are a variety of ways to place some type of shade element, and choosing an awning is not always easy.
Choosing the right awning
Each home has its own unique spaces, and each requires a type of awning.
- Straight point awning, which extends forward thanks to extension arms. It is very solid and the most common in large balconies and commercial establishments.
- Extendable awning: similar in appearance to the previous one, but with a structure that bends until all is collected inside a steel tube. It is usually mounted on two fixed steel legs, although it can also be mounted on the wall or on a ceiling, and is suitable for any location, very versatile.
- Vertical awning or blind, which is mounted on a previous structure. It is suitable for terraces and covered balconies and serves both for shading and privacy.
- Flat awning. Fixed, it is placed on a structure with at least two legs (if it is attached to a wall). It can be made as large as desired and is often used for very large terraces, patios… It has a low inclination and canvas is usually used breathable, so it should be collected when it rains.
- Hoods, either fixed or folding. It is a rounded or square structure that adheres to the wall over small windows or doors. Its function is only to protect the window from excessive light and or rain and look very good in old houses or very large.
- Pergolas and arbors: usually square or round. This type of awning is usually shaped like a pyramid, which is very practical for evacuating rainwater. There are folding and fixed. They are suitable for patios and terraces and can be adapted to any space.
- Sail awnings. It is just a piece of canvas that is tied with ropes to support points. It is perfect for small terraces or to create shade in small patios. You have to have three or four support points to tie them and they must be very well fixed to withstand wind and/or rain.