Awnings serve both aesthetic and practical purposes. They provide protection from weather elements and make your commercial or residential space more usable. When it comes to awnings, you can choose from several materials, styles and shapes.

Aluminum awnings are hugely popular because they are affordable and versatile. This article will help homeowners decide the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum awnings.

The Costs

Aluminum awnings can cost between $400 and $900 for 100 square feet of materials.

Advantages of Aluminum Awnings

Aluminum awnings are hugely popular because they have several advantages. They are durable, lightweight and affordable. Also they can be installed easily. Aluminum awnings can last 25 years or more if they are carefully maintained. Better still, they are sturdy enough to withstand strong storms. Thanks to their lightweight nature, it is easy to remove or retract them as needed. In spite of possessing so many advantages, aluminum awnings are still very affordable.

Disadvantages of Aluminum Awnings

It is true that aluminum awnings have a large number of plus points. They also have some minor drawbacks. For example, retractable aluminum awnings are not suitable for all weather conditions. And compared to other materials, they are available in only a limited number of colours. If you install retractable aluminum awnings, you will have to retract them completely during strong winds. Otherwise, they risk getting damaged severely. While this can be a bit of a hassle, most homeowners simply don’t care. They are ready to accept this infrequent responsibility and enjoy the many benefits of retractable aluminum awnings. Aluminum can get very hot. This is another disadvantage. If you live in coastal locations, aluminum awnings are not a great choice because exposure to salt can cause them to corrode.

Stationary Aluminum Awnings

Aluminum awnings are available in retractable and stationary versions. Stationary awnings are the more popular of these two varieties. They are inexpensive and don’t suffer any damage in strong winds but they can limit your view. Also they can’t let in sunlight during the cold winter months.

Pros and Cons of Retractable Aluminum Awnings

Although retractable aluminum awnings are more expensive, they are better than stationary awnings in many respects. Their greatest advantage is the flexibility. You can roll them out to get protection from direct sunlight and rains. And during those cold winter months when you would like more sunlight to enter your home, you can retract them. They also offer greater views. The biggest drawback of retractable awnings is that strong winds can blow them away. So you will have to retract them when there is storm forecast. Electric retractable aluminum awnings are convenient, but might not suit everyone’s budget.

Where to install Aluminum Awnings

Aluminum awnings can be used in several places of your home. They are commonly installed over south-facing windows as they get the most sunlight. You should also consider installing them over street-facing windows to get privacy year-round. Awnings can also be installed over your patios or gardens. The overhead cover that they provide will make these spaces more usable. At Jans Awnings we have several years of experience in installing aluminum awnings. Our awnings are made to last several decades. Contact us today to get an installation quote.