Having a porch is a great way to enjoy the best of both indoor and outdoor living. Unfortunately, if your porch is located in the wrong spot, the sun exposure in this location may drive you to revert back to living entirely indoors. If you install the right type of awning on your porch, though, you will be able to reclaim this space throughout the day so that you can get the most out of your investment.
Permanent Awning
If your porch is in the sun most of the day, then a permanent awning may make the most sense. A permanent awning essentially acts as an extension of your home’s roof, allowing you to keep your porch shady. The best part about a permanent awning is that it can be made from materials that are extremely durable, meaning that your maintenance and repair needs will be minimal.
Retractable
For a porch that only sees sunlight for part of the day, a retractable awning is the way to go. A retractable awning provides flexibility for your porch area that a permanent awning lacks. Plus, these types of awnings can be rolled-up quickly before a storm so that they’re less susceptible to wind damage. For extra ease, you can choose a motorized retractable awning so that you can transform your porch with the touch of a button.
Removable
If you only have a need for shade during part of the year, it’s a good idea to consider a removable awning. Something as simple as a shade sail can constitute a removable awning if installed in the right location. Since these types of awnings don’t have to be left up all year, you can expect to get many years of use out of the main components. In addition, a removable awning is easy to move if you need to make changes to your porch area.
Movable
Sometimes, the shade in your yard moves significantly throughout the day. If this is true of your backyard, then a movable awning makes a lot of sense. Large canopies that are attached to a base on wheels, such as a large umbrella, make perfect shady spots on your porch or anywhere around your yard. Since these types of awnings aren’t fixed to a specific location, they are quite versatile and cost-effective.
No matter which type of awning you use to provide shade to your porch, the simple fact that you want to provide shade is key. Given the risks associated with long-term sun exposure, providing a shady porch can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors without needing to lather yourself in sunscreen before you head out the door.
