Awnings and Canopies for Outdoor Areas: Simple Sun Protection for a Cooler Garden.

1. What is that?
   An awning is a covering installed on the exterior of a house. It provides protection against the sun and light rain. It can be permanently mounted or designed to roll up and down.
2. Why should you use one?
   • You receive shade immediately.
   • It feels 10°F cooler on the terrace.
   • You save money—you don’t have to leave the air conditioning running all day.
   • Your chairs and carpet last longer because UV rays stay out.
3. Choose your shape:
   • Flat roof: simple and modern.
   • Arched roof: Rainwater drains away quickly.
   • Gable roof: high ceiling, classic appearance.
4. Choose your material:
   • Fabric: lightweight, available in many colors, rolls up easily.
   • Aluminum: robust, rust-proof, durable.
   • Polycarbonate: transparent or tinted, blocks UV rays, shatterproof.
5. Fixed or retractable?
   •Advantages: Always open, always available, lower price.
   • Retractable: Rolls up in the wind, rolls out when you need shade.
6. How big should it be?
   Measure the area you wish to cover. Add 20 cm to each side so that the rain runs off the edges.
7. Will the wind break it?
   High-quality frames withstand wind speeds exceeding 96 km/h. Use stainless steel screws for fastening into masonry or wood—not just into the facade cladding.
8. Which color fits?
   White reflects heat. Black looks elegant. A wood look conveys coziness. Choose the option that best suits your home.
9. Extra Fun
   Install LED lights under the frame to make it glow at night. Hang plants from the front bar. Use side curtains for added privacy.
10. How much does it cost?
    • Small fabric awning: $120
    • Medium-sized aluminum awning (retractable): $500
    • Large glass roof structure: $1,000
    Still cheaper than building a new room.