The hot days of summer are
upon us. If you’re thinking of ways to reduce your summer energy bills, you
might consider investing in a home improvement that will keep your home cool,
stylish and comfortable: shade awnings.
According to the U.S.
Department of Energy, window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer
by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows. You can
use awnings to shade individual windows, or you can order an awning custom-made
to shade the entire side of your house. If you don’t want an awning all year
around, you can order models that retract or roll up when you don’t need them.
Types of Awnings
A small, horizontal awning
will completely shade a south-facing window during the summer. An east- or
west-facing window needs an awning that extends down to cover a larger part of
the window. Sideless awnings, called Venetian awnings, can be adjusted as the
angle of the sun changes. Venetian awnings, however, are usually not effective
at blocking direct sunlight on south-facing windows. Hood awnings are more
effective because they come with sides that block out additional sun. Hip
awnings project out and down to accommodate casement windows that open outward.
Fabric Choices
In the past, most awnings were
made of metal or canvas, which need to be re-covered every five to seven years.
Exposure to sun, wind and water wore them out over time. Today, awnings are
made from synthetic fabrics, such as acrylic and polyvinyl laminates, that are
water-repellent and treated to resist mildew and fading. No matter which fabric
you choose, you should select one that is opaque and tightly woven. Also, opt
for a light-colored awning that will reflect instead of absorb more sunlight.Awnings require ventilation to keep hot air from becoming trapped around the window. Grommets or other openings along the tops and sides of an awning can provide ventilation. The awning may also open to the sides or top to vent hot air.
Almar Building & Remodeling Co is a third generation family owned and operate company for over 50 years. As a fulls ervice general constrution company, we have all the benefits of a small company with the options of a larger company including financing. We service the entire South Shore of Massachusetts including: Hanover, Hingham, Pembroke, Norwell, Scituate, Cohassett, Avon, Hanson, Abington, Rockland, Holbrook, Braintree, Weymouth, Milton, and many more towns.
