Which Retractable Awning is Right for Me?
Six questions to ask yourself when choosing a retractable awning
So, you’ve decided to purchase a SunSetter retractable awning. You’ve made an excellent choice—a choice made by more than a million people who are now getting more out of life outdoors.
SunSetter offers a range of awning options. Which is right for you? Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking for the right SunSetter awning for your home.
1. How will you be using your awning?
Will you be using your awning as a quiet place to sip a cup of coffee? Or, will you be creating a party space? Knowing how you plan to use your space is an important question because it will affect how large you want your awning. Awning widths range from 8 to 20 feet and projections range up to 13 feet with our XL models. That’s a huge range of areas that can be covered by an awning. Pick an awning size that matches the amount of space you need.
2. Who will be using the awning?
Will you be the primary operator of the awning? If so, choose the control method that works for you—either manual or motorized. If you will have multiple people operating the awning, a motorized option is probably the right choice.
A motorized awning can be operated wirelessly with a simple remote control. With the touch of a button the awning extends or retracts, it’s a control system that anyone can operate. Users who might not have the strength to operate a manually cranked awning will love the convenience of a motorized awning.
3. How often will I be using my awning?
If you are extending your awning only a few times per year for special gatherings, a manual control system might be just fine. However, if you’re going to be using the awning on a regular basis, consider a motorized awning. A motorized awning lets you operate the awning with minimal effort, making you more likely to use your awning and allowing your SunSetter protected patio to become an integral part of your home.
4. What are the weather challenges in my area?
Do you have extreme sun or ice and cold? You might want to choose a Plus model with a semi-cassette, an aluminum cover that protects the rolled fabric when it’s retracted. It’s excellent protection for your awning investment.
Does your area have strong winds that kick up without much warning? A motorized awning is a good choice—hit a button and your awning is retracted and safe. Pair a motorized awnings with a Wireless Wind Sensor and your awning can retract automatically.
Do you live in an especially rainy environment? Consider a laminated fabric that is completely waterproof.
5. Do I want extra privacy and protection?
PRO models feature a built-in, front Weatherbreaker drop screen that blocks 85% of sun and glare. A simple hand crank unrolls an elegant screen down to 5 feet adding an instant wall for immediate privacy and protection. Perfect for blocking late afternoon sun and onlookers.
6. Do I need an awning on a location not adjacent to my home?
If you have an area of your yard where you’d like an awning but have no building to mount it to, consider a SunSetter Oasis freestanding awning. These awnings can be placed anywhere there’s a flat surface. Available in both manual and motorized models.
Find All the Options
Visit SunSetter.com to see the full range of retractable awning options as well as EasyScreens and EasyShades. There is something for every patio, every budget, and every lifestyle.