Do you want to shade your patio and improve your yard's aesthetics? An awning is the answer to your lackluster, overly sunny yard. If you're not sure which awning to choose, take a look at the questions to ask right now.

Should You Buy a Retractable Awning?

Shade isn't always a top priority. Even though you may want to decrease the heat or keep the rain away during a drizzly backyard barbecue, you may also enjoy the sun's rays for some of the day (or for some daytime events).

How can you get the best of both worlds with sunny days sometimes and plenty of shade and rain cover? A retractable awning is the answer. The benefits of this option include:

• Versatility . This easy-to-operate alternative to a fixed awning offers you the ability to choose how much cover you want, based on the weather, the event, or your mood.
• Long lifespan . A retractable awning isn't exposed to the elements 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Without constant sunlight or a steady rain, a retractable awning may have a longer lifespan that the fixed version.
• Less weather damages . Not only can the retractable feature of the awning add to its lifespan but it can also protect the material from storm damage. High winds and downpours can tear an awning or cause other damage. The ability to retract the awning can save the material.

Like other types of awnings, retractable models come in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles to fit every type of home and yard design.

What Type of Fabric Is the Awning?

The material makeup impacts the durability, longevity, and style of the awning. Whether you choose a retractable or fixed awning, you have many style choices. Before you select an awning, consider:

• Durability. Your awning needs to withstand the rain, sleet, and humidity-related moisture. Choose a material that's waterproof or has a weather-resistant coating.
• Mold and mildew. A canvas awning can grow mold or mildew, ruining the fabric. Vinyl, polyester, acrylic, and other man-made materials are often better options if you have concerns about this type of issue.
• Color. After you choose a material, you also need to select a color. The hue could coordinate with your home's exterior accents, such as the entry doors, window frames, or siding.
• Pattern. Some awnings are more than one color. A patterned pick adds a special standout style to your home.
  
  If you're not sure which type of material, color, or pattern to choose, discuss the options with an awning expert. The contractor can help you to better understand the alternatives and select the one that meets the needs of your family and home.

What Size Awning Do You Need?

Now that you've chosen a style and material, you need to decide on an awning size. To determine what size your home needs:

• Measure the shaded space . How much space do you need to shade? If you're not sure how to measure the area correctly or how far the shade will go, ask the awning professional to complete this step for you.
• Determine the direction . Where does the sun shine? Consider the direction of your home and how the sun's rays shine on the outdoor area before you choose a size.
• Compare your home to the awning . Balance your backyard space with a just-right sized awning. An overly large awning can make a small home look off-balance, while a tiny model could get lost on a sizable exterior.

The awning professional can do more than just measure the area. The contractor can also help you to choose a size that fits your home and creates maximum shade or protection.

Are you ready to choose a new backyard awning? Contact Lexington Tent & Awning Company for more information.