Last Updated on April 28, 2020
Homeowners are spending more than $28 billion on home improvements every year. Owning property is an amazing experience. Aside from the financial benefit, you also have a home to call your own. That said, there are many enhancements that can add the finishing touches to your house.
Awnings are a great example. These elements have been around for some time. Contrary to what many believe, they do more than increase your home’s aesthetics. An effective awning allows you to regulate the temperature inside your house.
What’s more, awnings come in an array of shapes and sizes. And, they are suitable for different parts of your home, including your doors. Door awnings can increase the aesthetic and functional performance of your home.
In this article, we’ll go over the benefits of having door awnings. We’ll also give you tips on how to choose a timeless design for your home.
Table of Contents
What Is a Door Awning?
In the general sense, awnings are covers or protectors designed to keep rain and sun away. Companies like DCI Signs & Awnings specialize in installing beautiful awnings for homes and businesses. They are suitable for storefronts, windows, decks, and of course, doorways.
Some folks refer to them like canopies, shades, or sunshades, although the term awning is universal. Awnings consist of materials such as canvas or vinyl. These sit on top of a frame and can feature a lot of different colors. Door awnings can also have different angles and designs that affect their appearance.
How to Choose the Best Door Awnings
Choosing the best door awning is not always easy. You have to take a look at your house’s exterior design. This includes the general shape of your home and its accents. Windows, decks, doors, and other visual elements will define what type of awning you can use.
Also, consider your personal style. Remember that it’s your house, so you should love the awnings before they go up.
Here are some tips to help you choose a timeless awning design.
Set Your Goal
Most people consider awnings an aesthetic addition. But, these accents can do much more than improve your home’s appearance. In order to find the best awning, you should first set your goals.
Some awnings will help keep your house cool in summer and warm in winter. Others can add flare to the outside of your home, so make sure you set your goals before you begin.
Check the Requirements
You may need to fulfill certain requirements depending on the circumstances. If you want to install an awning on a storefront, you may need to request a permit.
Likewise, some neighborhoods and communities don’t allow these additions. Verify if you need any special permits or requirements before you begin your project.
Awning Size
One of the major elements you need to take into account is the size of your awning. In many cases, people choose an awning and realize it’s too big when it’s already too late.
Having a cover that’s too big will reduce the performance of your awning. Not to mention the fact that it won’t look as good in your house.
Choosing the right size is much easier than shrinking your door. So, make sure that you have enough space to install the model you want.
Materials
There are many different elements that make up an awning. These parts can consist of a variety of materials that have an effect on the quality of the cover.
The frame of an awning can consist of wood or metal. Traditional and rustic awnings have hardwood components. These must have a coating to help them stay in good shape after bad weather. Modern models feature sturdy metals like steel and aluminum.
As for the fabric that covers the frame, it can consist of many materials. This includes fabrics, vinyl, natural textiles, and acrylic.
Angle
The angle of the awning is not always a priority, but it has a huge effect on its performance. In an ideal scenario, your awnings should be at 45 degrees. This will help maintain the cool during summer and warmth during winter. Awnings that don’t have the right angle may not perform well and take away from a house’s appearance.
Select Your Favorite Design
There are many different designs you can choose from. Some have only solid materials. Other features include textiles and other accents. Make sure you keep your house’s general architecture in mind. You need to find an option that either adds to or compliments the current design.
Color Scheme
Keep in mind that there are also a variety of schemes to choose from. You can select colorful door awnings that become the focal point. At the same time, you can select something more moderate that flows with the current elements.
Contrast with Your Walls and Other Elements
The best way to appreciate any accent is if there is contrast. Verify that the color combination you use also has good contrast with your walls. Not only this, there should be a contrast with the frame and the fabric as well.
Patterns and Prints
You’ll find a large collection of patterns and prints to choose from. Most of the time these are only available for fabrics and textiles. But, you should be able to choose one that fits your style if you’re using one of these materials.
Stationary or Retractable?
You’ll also have to select between stationary and retractable awnings. While they are more expensive, retractable awnings are more practical.
Stay Up to Date with the Latest Trends
Adding elements to your home is always exciting. That said, finding the right door awnings is not always easy.
The tips above should give you an idea of how to choose a timeless design for your home. As long as you take your time, you should be able to find a tasteful awning that matches your style.
Want to pick up more home decor tips? Check out our decor and design page to get more juicy advice for your home!