Adding a retractable awning to your home is one of the most effective ways to transform an underutilized deck or patio into a comfortable outdoor living space. Sunsetter is a leading name in the industry, known for providing high-quality shade solutions that protect against UV rays and reduce outdoor temperatures significantly. By installing a retractable awning, you can enjoy your backyard even during the hottest hours of the day while simultaneously lowering your home’s cooling costs. This guide explores the different types of Sunsetter products, their benefits, and how to choose the right model for your specific needs.
Understanding the Benefits of Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings offer a level of flexibility that permanent structures cannot match. Unlike a fixed roof or a gazebo, an awning can be extended when you need shade and retracted when you want to enjoy the sun or protect the fabric from harsh weather. This versatility makes them a popular choice for homeowners who want to maintain the open feel of their outdoor spaces.
One of the primary advantages of these shade systems is temperature control. On a hot summer day, the temperature under an awning can be up to 20 degrees cooler than the surrounding area. This cooling effect also extends to the interior of your home. By blocking direct sunlight from entering through windows and sliding glass doors, an awning can reduce the heat gain inside your house, leading to lower air conditioning bills.
Protection from UV Rays and Elements
In addition to cooling, these products provide essential protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. High-quality awning fabrics are designed to block up to 99% of UV radiation, making the area safer for children and pets. This protection also prevents your outdoor furniture, rugs, and indoor flooring from fading due to constant sun exposure.
While primarily designed for sun protection, many models also offer shelter from light rain. This allows you to continue your outdoor activities, such as grilling or reading, without being interrupted by a passing shower. However, it is important to remember that most retractable awnings are not designed for heavy rain, snow, or high winds.
Popular Sunsetter Models and Features
When selecting a shade solution, it is important to understand the differences between the various models available. Each is designed to meet different architectural requirements and budget considerations.
Motorized Awnings
Motorized models are the most popular choice for modern homeowners. These systems use a quiet electric motor to extend or retract the fabric at the touch of a button or via a remote control. This convenience ensures that you use your awning more frequently, as there is no physical effort involved in operating it.
- Motorized XL: This model offers the largest projection, extending up to 13 feet 1 inch from your home. It is ideal for large decks and patios where maximum coverage is required.
- Standard Motorized: This is the classic choice for most homes, offering a projection of up to 10 feet 2 inches. It provides ample shade for standard-sized outdoor seating areas.
Manual Awnings
For those who prefer a simpler design or do not have easy access to an outdoor electrical outlet, manual models are an excellent alternative. These are operated using a hand-cranked gear mechanism. While they require a bit of physical effort, the high-quality gearing makes the process smooth and relatively easy. Manual awnings are generally more affordable and have fewer mechanical components to maintain.
The Oasis Freestanding Awning
If you have a seating area that is not adjacent to your house, such as a poolside lounge or a spot in the middle of your lawn, a freestanding awning is the perfect solution. The Oasis model provides a stable, independent structure that can be placed anywhere on a flat surface. It offers the same retractable convenience as wall-mounted models but with the flexibility of placement away from the home’s exterior walls.
Choosing the Right Fabric and Color
The fabric is the most visible part of your awning and plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and durability. Most high-end retractable awnings use one of two main types of fabric: woven acrylic or laminated fabric.
Woven Acrylic Fabric
Woven acrylic is often considered the premium choice. The color is dyed into the fibers themselves, which makes the fabric highly resistant to fading. It has a high-quality, cloth-like look and feel and is breathable, allowing hot air to escape from underneath the awning. This keeps the shaded area even cooler.
Laminated Fabric
Laminated fabrics are typically made of polyester with a vinyl coating. These are exceptionally durable and 100% waterproof, making them a great choice if you live in a climate with frequent light rain. They are also very easy to clean and maintain, as dirt and debris can usually be rinsed off with a garden hose.
Selecting a Color
When choosing a color, consider the architectural style of your home. Neutral tones like beige, tan, and grey are timeless and blend well with most exteriors. Striped patterns can add a classic, Mediterranean feel to your patio. Keep in mind that darker colors provide more shade but may absorb more heat, while lighter colors reflect more sunlight.
Installation and Placement Considerations
Proper installation is vital for the safety and longevity of your retractable awning. Before purchasing, you must determine where the awning will be mounted and ensure the surface can support the weight and torque of the unit.
Mounting Options
Most awnings are mounted directly onto a vertical wall. However, if your home has low eaves or limited wall space, there are other options:
- Soffit Mount: The awning is attached to the underside of the roof overhang.
- Roof Mount: Special brackets are used to attach the awning directly to the roof surface, providing extra height when wall space is insufficient.
Measuring Your Space
To get the right fit, you need to measure the width of the area you want to shade. Most manufacturers offer standard widths ranging from 8 feet to 20 feet. You also need to ensure you have at least 7 feet 6 inches of vertical clearance from the ground to the mounting point to allow for the proper pitch (slope) of the awning when extended.
Maintenance and Care Tips
While retractable awnings are designed for durability, a little routine maintenance will extend their lifespan and keep them looking new for years.
- Regular Cleaning: Rinse the fabric with a garden hose every few months to prevent dirt from becoming embedded. For deeper cleans, use a soft-bristle brush and a mild soap solution.
- Retract During Storms: Always retract your awning during high winds, heavy rain, or snow. The large surface area of the fabric can act like a sail, potentially damaging the mounting brackets or the arm mechanism.
- Lubrication: Occasionally lubricate the moving parts of the frame with a dry silicone spray to ensure smooth and quiet operation.
- Keep it Dry: Whenever possible, avoid retracting the awning while the fabric is wet. If you must retract it during rain, extend it as soon as the weather clears so it can air dry completely to prevent mold and mildew.
Conclusion
Investing in a Sunsetter retractable awning is a practical way to improve your home’s comfort and value. By providing reliable shade, UV protection, and energy savings, these products allow you to make the most of your outdoor environment. Whether you choose a motorized model for ultimate convenience or a manual version for simplicity, the right awning will serve as a beautiful and functional addition to your home for many years. To ensure the best results, take the time to measure your space accurately and choose a fabric that complements your home’s style. For more home improvement tips and guides on outdoor living, explore our other helpful articles.