The ideal retractable awning can enhance your home’s value with stylish appeal and more comfortable outdoor living conditions. With so many options on the market, however, finding the right one takes the help of trusted professionals. Here, Giglio Awning, a full-service retractable awning installer in Southern New Jersey, explores the features and benefits of different retractable awning types.
Retractable Awning Styles
Retractable awnings come in three main styles: lateral arm, drop arm, and pergola. Each type has a unique appearance and support structure, making each suitable for a different application:
Lateral Arm
When many people think of retractable awnings, they imagine a lateral arm design. This style features arms that fold horizontally underneath the awning. Because the arms are tight against the fabric, they don’t get in the way – so you won’t lose any headroom. This style also offers clean, crisp lines that look perfect on your modern porch, patio, or sundeck.
Drop Arm
Also called bistro awnings, drop arm options extend from the building at an angle supported by two retractable arms. The resulting angled design is highly customizable and provides excellent vertical shade. As a result, drop arm awnings are a strong choice for windows, doorways, balconies, or anywhere you want the classic café aesthetic.
Pergola
Pergolas are rising in popularity. Reminiscent of Mediterranean luxury, these structures provide partial shade perfect for relaxing outdoors. In the heat of the day, however, a pergola awning can offer additional protection. Pergola awnings are designed to be installed on top of existing pergola structures, transforming them into shady sanctuaries while adding extra pizazz.
Motorized or Manual?
After selecting your awning size and style, it’s time to decide how it operates. Most retractable awnings are available with two types of opening mechanisms, including:
Manual Awnings
Manual awnings are designed to be opened using a hand crank or pull cord. Though slightly more effort-intensive than automatic alternatives, most manual mechanisms are highly functional and simple to use. They also present a more budget-friendly solution for homeowners who want to enhance their outdoor living areas without breaking the bank.
Motorized Awnings
Motorized awnings are equipped with an electric motor that automatically extends or retracts the awning. The motor can be activated with a push button or remote control for effortless operation. Motorized mechanisms add convenience and are easy for anyone to use. They’re also ideal for awnings in hard-to-reach locations, such as over a high window.
Adding a Valance
Your final step in designing your patio awning is to decide on a valance. An awning valance is a fabric extension that hangs down from your awning edge. Valances can also be designed to cover the triangular openings on either side of a drop arm awning. By increasing your vertical coverage, you can increase the shade your awning provides – especially early or late in the day.
Valances can also elevate your awning’s look with decorative stripes or ruffled trim. This creates a classic or vintage aesthetic that many customers love. In contrast, awnings without valances feature cleaner, crisper lines for more contemporary styling.
Discover Retractable Awning Types from Giglio Awning
The best retractable awning type ultimately depends on your home and goals. This is why it’s helpful to consult with an expert. Giglio Awning is a family-owned business crafting custom shading solutions for customers throughout Cape May, Atlantic, Ocean, Burlington, and Monmouth Counties. Our team can help you design the perfect product for your home. With our experienced service and fast installations, you’ll be enjoying your new awning in no time. Contact us today to learn more.