The best way to enhance your outdoor living is to add some shade for you and your guests. Whether it’s for barbecuing, suntanning or hosting friends and family outside, patio covers and awnings can keep you safe from the elements. While both serve the same purpose, each has its own sets of benefits that may better fit your needs. Here are some of the differences between awnings and patio covers so you can decide which one is right for your backyard.

Differences Between Awnings and Patio Covers

At their core, awnings and patio covers are fundamentally different. An awning is a canopy that extends from your home or building. Awnings can be fixed in place or retractable for when the weather is severe.

Patio covers are permanent structures that have a solid roof. They’re usually supported by posts or columns and can either be attached to your property or freestanding.

Awning and Patio Cover Considerations

There are several factors that can play into whether awnings or patio covers are best for your property, including:

• Cost: One of the biggest aspects that may influence your decision is the cost. Awnings are usually more cost-effective because they have lower installation and material costs. Patio covers may initially be more expensive, since they are a more permanent structure.
• Variety: Awnings offer a wider range of variety because they can be made of several different materials, such as a fabric or metal. They also have a larger selection of colors and patterns, making them highly customizable. On the other hand, patio covers are usually made of wood or metal, which can limit their variety of colors. To customize a patio cover, you can come up with different configurations and paint the panels yourself.
• Durability: When it comes to durability, patio covers and retractable awnings have the advantage. Since they’re permanent structures, patio covers are built to withstand harsh conditions. Meanwhile, fixed awnings can be more susceptible to damage, as they cannot be retracted ahead of extreme weather.
• Maintenance: Both patio covers and awnings require minimal maintenance. The biggest form of maintenance on these structures is gentle washing every few months to remove any dirt or grime that accumulates. During these regular cleanings, also remove debris that can scratch or tear the fabric.

Upgrade Your Outdoor Living with Universal Awning & Sign

Whether you’re looking for an awning or patio cover, trust the local experts at Universal Awning & Sign. We provide affordable, durable and long-lasting solutions for your outdoor living. Our structures are built to last in Florida’s harsh conditions and will perform at a high level against extreme heat and heavy rain for years to come. To learn more about our services and the options we carry, call us today at 407-328-7781.