A Little Shade Can Go a Long Way

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.

Adequate Ventilation
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.

Hanover Contractor: Pella Pro Expo 2012

By: Allison Q Guido, CS

Craig and I love to have the opportunity to get out of the office and attend new educational programs. We know that we can only keep improving ourselves and Almar Building & Remodeling by paying attention to new products and best business practices. So we were delighted to be invited to the Invitation only Pella Pro Expo held at Gillette Stadium.

This Expo featured not only seminars and workshops on the latest ‘hot topics’ in the remodeling industry but also included many well know manufacturers. It was great opportunity to have one on one time with the manufacturer’s reps themselves to ask specific questions and learn about
new products and improvements to old products.

It was great to see all the Pella window and door products up close especially
their new 350 Series. As stated on the Pella Website:

Pella 350 Series windows offer an exclusive energy-saving system with triple-pane glass making them Pella’s most energy-efficient products. Advanced technology makes them stronger and more durable. Distinctive styling gives them a more beautiful look. Choose from three frame colors, two grille types and multiple hardware finishes and styles.

Maintenance-free vinyl frames
Stronger and more durable with 61% more vinyl
Dual-color frame option
Optional triple-pane glass for maximum energy efficiency
Fold-away crank won't get in the way

We were also lucky enough to attend two seminars presented by Patrick O’Toole from Professional Builder and Professional Remodeler on marketing and technology trends in remodeling. Craig and I are looking forward to sorting thru all our notes and putting new processes to work for all our remodeling clients very soon.

And don’t forget to give us a call (781-826-2577) at Almar Remodeling Co to organize all of your remolding projects. Almar is located in Hanover Ma, and serves many South Shore towns like: Hanover, Scituate, Norwell, Hingham, Cohasset, Duxbury and Pembroke for all of your Home Remodeling needs (Additions, Kitchen Renovations, Bath Remodels, Basement Finishing)