Fixed or Retractable Awnings: Which is better?

There are many decisions regarding an estate that a property owner has to take. From choosing the paint inside the building to deciding on a roofing style, a property owner faces many home décor dilemmas. And out of them all, choosing between a fixed or retractable awning is probably the oldest one. While we believe that the latter is by far the better choice, we decided to review both types objectively so that you can come to a conclusion yourself. So, here is a rundown of the pros and cons of both a fixed and a retractable awning to help you decide which one you should get.

A Fixed Awning

Fixed awnings provide continuous protection to the inhabitants of a building from all the seasons. Whether it’s the summer or fall, you will have a shed over your patio at all times. While it can be ideal for beating the scorching heat in the summer, it can rob you of all the opportunities to view the sky when the weather is pleasant and cloudy.

A fixed awning is the cheaper shading solution between the two options and requires minimum to no maintenance. You don’t have to spend big bucks to install a fixed awning or to look after it later.

Fixed awnings generally cover a large surface area, so they need structural supports. They are better suited for offices and corporate buildings. However, they are also a popular choice of covering above small spaces such as alcoves, windows, and entryways.

The longevity of fixed awnings makes them ideal for creating a secluded space in the yard. If you want to have a small room sequestered away from the main house, then a fixed awning can provide you with the privacy you need.

A Retractable Awning

Retractable awnings are popular among homeowners as they offer full, partial, or no shade options. Residents of an abode get to enjoy the sun when the heat is pleasant and protect themselves when the sun is relentless. The convenience of drawing a shade as per the need is what gives the retractable awning an edge over its fixed counterpart.

However, a retractable awning is pricier than a fixed shelter and requires thorough maintenance. Since a rolling mechanism is embedded in fixed awnings, they must be checked frequently to ensure that all the parts are rust free and working correctly.

  Retractable awnings are free of structural supports as they are attached to the adjacent wall, which makes them aesthetically more appealing than a fixed shelter. They also offer advanced high-tech varieties controlled by an electric system, giving users the utmost ease.

 
The Final Verdict

Although a fixed awning is cheaper, it doesn’t have a lot of benefits. But on the other hand, a retractable awning has multiple benefits, even if it costs a little more.

You should make the final choice based on your personal preference, but we would recommend you go for a retractable awning because it’s worth the money it costs, especially in the sunny California where you want to enjoy the weather one day and hide away the other.