Awning installation is the paramount way to keep your new outdoor deck cool and shaded during hot, bright days. However, there will surely be days when you want to enjoy all that the sun has to offer without an awning inhibiting that.
With that being said, a retractable awning gives you the ability to shade your outdoor patio or deck on a hot day, or sit out in the sun when you need to warm up. The convenience of a retractable awning adds a completely new dimension to your outdoor living space, making it easy to enjoy on any kind of day.
Retractable awnings come in two different forms: manual awnings and motorized awnings. Because it is difficult to choose between the two forms on your own, we are here to break down some characteristics of both types of awnings to give you a better sense of what is right for you.
Manual
Manual retractable awnings use a type of hand crank that you rotate left or right to either retract or protract your awning. By using human power to extend or withdraw your deck awning, you won’t have to rely on electricity, which can come in handy. For example, if you are in the middle of a bad storm that causes a power outage, a manual retractable awning gives you the ability to bring your awning out of danger, even without electrical assistance.
Manual awnings are also easier to install and somewhat more afford since installation doesn’t require any advanced electrical wiring. This also works in your favor because you won’t have to worry about any deteriorating electrical parts or replacing your battery.
Motorized
With a motorized retractable awning, the biggest benefit over a manual operated awning has to be the convenience aspect. You won’t have to physically crank open your awning with a motorized retractable awning, which makes relaxing in the shade, or in the sun, easier than ever. Because of how convenient it is to use, you may find yourself sitting out on your outdoor patio or deck more often than you would normally.
Motorized retractable awnings are built with telescoping arms which extend and retract along with the awning. These arms provide a cleaner and more direct look than manual awnings, making them more ideal for homes with modern designs.
Best Option?
There really is no “best” option between a motorized and a manual retractable awning since the decision is dependent on the preference of the home owner. Some individuals find that a manual deck awning is the best situation since it doesn’t depend on electricity and a number of working parts. Some people think the convenience of a motorized retractable awning is the best available situation.
No matter what type of home you have, it’s important to do your research before your awning installation. If you are looking to equip your outdoor living area with a retractable awning, but are struggling between the manual and motorized versions, contact Paul Construction LLC to learn more about each design and which would work best for you specifically.
