An awning provides you with shade outdoors, such as over the entrance to your home or as a patio cover. A fixed aluminum awning is one shade option to consider, especially for permanent installations in areas where shade or a covering from the weather will almost always be appreciated. There are many benefits when considering this type of awning.
1. Durability
You can expect your new awning to serve for many years, often many decades. The weak point for an aluminum awning isn't usually the awning itself, but the supports and hardware. If you opt for heavy pressure treated wood posts or strong metal posts along with galvanized rust-resistant hardware, you may not need to replace the awning in your lifetime.
2. Damage Resistance
The aluminum used for awnings isn't like what you would find in a soda can. It won't bend or dent easily. Rust and corrosion aren't major concerns with aluminum as they would be for other metal awning types either, so you don't have to worry about that. Further, aluminum resists damage from UV light and other types of weathering.
3. Lightweight Construction
Weight can be a concern, particularly if you are installing the awning so that at least some of the support is coming from an existing structure such as your home's exterior wall. Aluminum, although durable, is also extremely lightweight. This means you don't have to worry about it causing damage to your home nor should it require additional support.
4. Low Maintenance
Aluminum, by its nature and construction, requires very little maintenance. Most awnings have a powder-coated or similarly strong paint coat that doesn't require reapplication or touchups, for example. There is nothing to be oiled and repairs are rare. You should check any bolts annually to make sure they are not loose, as well as replace any that have suffered damage. Otherwise, little maintenance is needed.
5. Custom Designs
You want a patio cover that provides the necessary protection while also looking great. You can have an aluminum awning constructed to match any size or shape needs, including odd shapes and configurations. You will also be able to choose the design of the awnings, such as whether it is sloped, peaked to match the home's roof, the look of the metal, and the final paint color.
Contact an outdoor awnings dealer if you would like to find an aluminum awning to fit your space.