If you’re thinking of expanding and extending your living space, but are unable to think of a cost-efficient way to do it, then why not convert some portion of your external space into living areas instead?
All you have to do is install outdoor awnings to make your home appear bigger, functional, and useful. In this article we will discuss some of the fundamentals of awnings usage for residential spaces.
The Different Types of Outdoor Awnings
Before going off to the DIY store and just grabbing any outdoor awning, you should be aware that there are a few kinds of awnings available for home installation. Which one you should install depends on what your plan is for the external space.
If you are planning to make the external space a permanent addition to your home’s living area, then you should consider using a permanent outdoor awning which could be either made of layered sheet metal or heavy-duty fabric propped up on permanently installed posts.
Consequently, if you are only planning to expand your livings space externally when the season permits, or if there are special events, then you should consider using automated retractable awnings.
If you decide to use retractable awnings, you should take into consideration how often you retract the whole awning system. Motorised awnings are best if you think you will need to set up a large awning several times over the year.
If you intend to only use it a few times a year, or if you intend to have it fully deployed for long periods, then manual outdoor awnings might be the more practical and cheaper option for you. The best solution therefore is a motorised system that features manual override, just in case you lose power at home.
How do you use outdoor awnings?
One of the more popular ways to expand living spaces is to use awnings to turn your balcony into a small nook. The most common design for this small area would be a small-scale garden with one or two chairs and a small table, where you can relax. For some homeowners, it can be converted into their “day room.” Other people even convert their balcony into reading rooms or even a private study.
Another way of using awnings is to expand a home’s porch area. In this case, the area can be extended beyond the formal porch itself, with the awning itself becoming the roof of the porch. This can work well in conditions where special family events might need such a bigger shaded area. On the other hand, the extended porch roof can cut down on ambient glare, cool down the actual porch and comfortably dim the whole area at the cheapest prices available.
Finally awnings can even create a new outer living area, such as some space right next to the door in the rear of the property. This area can then be used according to the preferences of the home owner, from a small outdoor living room, to a shade for a temporary dirty kitchen and grilling area. The trick is to find a space where outdoor awnings in Sydney can be used to make a good outdoor living area. After that, it’s just a matter of installing it yourself, or hiring some professionals to help you put up your your outdoor awnings in a fast and efficient manner.
Want to learn more about outdoor awnings? Click here to check out our wide range of window treatment designs and mechanisms. You may also call us on 02 8858 0900 for enquiries.
