Retractable Awnings Turn Decks and Patios into Added Living Space

(ARA) - Building an addition to a home can be inconvenient and costly. More and more homeowners are avoiding this hassle and choosing instead to expand their homes by adding a splash of color and timeless style through custom retractable awnings.

Consumers are seeing retractable awnings as an elegant and practical way to increase living space and the value of their homes. Retractable awnings allow them to expand their home beyond its interior boundaries and turn decks and patios into added living space. They combine the comfort of an indoor lifestyle with the beauty of outdoor living.

People have used awnings to keep indoor and outdoor spaces cool and shielded from the damaging effects of the sun for thousands of years. It's no surprise that today's energy-conscious homeowners are rediscovering the benefits of awnings for countless applications, including decks, porches, terraces, windows and window expanses. Awnings shelter homes from the sun's harmful rays and prevent fading of carpets and furniture while conserving energy.

By adding an awning to a home, solar heat gain can be greatly reduced by limiting the amount of direct and indirect sunlight that enters a window or door. According to studies conducted by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers, the use of fabric awnings reduces solar heat gain by up to 77 percent and lowers indoor temperatures.

"Retractable awnings are quick, easy and very convenient. Simply flip a switch and the awning rolls out effortlessly," says Larry Bedosky, director of marketing for Durasol Awnings, America's leading brand of custom-made, professionally-installed, retractable awnings. "Relief from the hottest summer sun is literally at the homeowner's fingertips -- allowing them to let in as little or as much sun as desired."

Durasol offers a complete line of solar shading systems designed to meet a variety of shading needs. The Durasol SunShelter Series of "lateral arm" awnings are custom-made to suit any home size and style, offering a variety of projection ranges and virtually unlimited widths to meet any space requirement. SunShelter awnings can be mounted on virtually any flat surface, under a soffit, or even on a roof when limited mounting height is available. An optional Drop Valance allows a section of fabric to be manually lowered from the front bar, providing additional solar protection from early morning and late afternoon sun.

Long lasting 100 percent acrylic fabrics, combined with non-corrosive hardware, contribute to a maintenance-free investment. "Awnings of the past were generally made of cotton or canvas fabrics and were easily affected by time and the elements," says Bedosky. "The newer solution-dyed, acrylic covers provide a better fit, greater stability and can last for well over ten years."

With a wide variety of over 200 vibrant fabric colors and patterns, Durasol's retractable awnings will compliment any décor. An optional Wind Sensor is available which allows awnings to automatically retract when wind speeds reach a predetermined level, preventing awning damage. A Sun Sensor can also be added to allow for automatic operation determined by the sun's strength. An interior wireless remote control is an option that provides easy-access operation. When not in use, Durasol Awnings are easily retracted, safely stored, and will subtly blend in with the exterior beauty of any home.

Retractable awnings become an extension of a home's personality and charm. They add lasting value and classic beauty that will remain absolutely timeless.

To learn more about Durasol Awnings or to locate your local dealer, visit them online at www.durasol.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content