Awnings can be a convenient way to protect from the harsh weather while enjoying the outdoors. These can be installed on your windows, patios, or anywhere else where you want protection from sunlight or rain. While fixed awnings can be economically viable, folding arm awnings give you greater versatility. With such a lot of variety available in folding arm awnings, it can be difficult to make a wise choice. Here are a few tips to help you buy folding arm awnings for your outdoors.
Things to consider when buying folding arm awnings
Consider the place
Figure out where you want to install the awning. It could be your patio, garden, window, or somewhere else. The design and size of the awning largely depends on the space available. You don’t want to make the mistake of buying the awning first and then deciding on a place.
Choose between motorized and manual awnings
Motorized folding arm awnings could prove to be really convenient. They allow you to operate the awnings at the touch of a button. However, they can be markedly more expensive than manual awnings. They can also be inconvenient if you are the callus sort who does not undertake regular maintenance of awnings. While motorized awnings are the ideal solution, they are not well suited to remote places where regular supply of electricity might be a problem.
Decide on a pattern and color
Folding arm awnings can come in a variety of colors and designs. It is best to stick to neutral tones though, since they complement most aesthetics. Going for complicated patterns and colors is also not a viable long-term solution, since they can quickly fade. However, it is a small area you want to cover with folding arm awnings; you could go for something colorful and eye-catching.
Maintenance tips for your folding arm awnings
- During the autumns and winters; awnings could often times be left unattended. It is important to check the folding arms of the awnings periodically to keep them in working condition for the season. If you notice any hindrance in the folding arms, oil the joints a little. If it still does not solve the problem, call a certified technician. Usually, the place where you bought the awnings from can help you in that regard.
- During rainy season, you need to check the motorization of your awnings. High moisture can cause damage to the motor of your awnings. Checking it once a month will help you to avoid the problems from escalating, which eventually means lesser repair bills.
- No matter what color and fabric of the awning you choose, it will fade over time. You can prolong the quality of your awnings by regularly cleaning it. Cleaning them regularly will prevent moisture and dust from building up. Washing them with plain water at regular intervals can be helpful. This is especially recommended after winters, when awnings are folded. Folded awnings can collect a lot of dust and debris.
- Sometimes, awnings can come with lighting fixtures. Checking them at regular intervals can be helpful. Most times, they last a long time. However, it is best to be safe than to be sorry.
While buying awnings, it is important to buy from a reputed dealer. Check for the quality of the fabric first and foremost. While high-quality fabric can be more expensive, it is most long-lasting. Thus, you will be saving more in the long run. Ask for warranties too when buying motorized awnings. Most dealers and manufacturers give at least a year of warranty on their products.