Outdoor investments are some of the most rewarding home renovations that you can undertake. It matters not whether you own a full backyard, a small patio, or a deck surrounding a swimming pool; a quality shade solution turns a hot outdoor environment into a functional extension of your home.
In the process of upgrading, one of the initial choices homeowners have is whether they want a fixed structure or a retractable system. Both of these alternatives have different benefits in regard to functionality and aesthetic appeal. This is an important aspect for homeowners to consider when they want a solution for a warm environment.
Stability of Fixed Shade Structures
Fixed shade structures were created to remain in place year round. This includes solid-roof patios, wood pergolas, gazebos, as well as canvas awnings with fixed frames. Shade structures like these become a part of the architecture of a home and may even determine the boundaries of the ‘outdoor room.’
First, the durability of fixed shade structures constitutes a notable benefit. These structures are permanently set and made of very sturdy materials, including wood, steel, or aluminum, making them more resilient and able to endure severe weather patterns, as opposed to other shade structures. For this reason, individuals owning property within a region prone to unpredictable weather can be relieved. Additionally, the structure does not have as many parts that may need to be maintained, as in the case of mobile shades.
The permanency of the fixed shading, on the other hand, can be a negative aspect. Once the awning is installed, the coverage will not be adjustable. If the installation of the fixed awning prevents the hot sun during the hot season, the same awning will also shield the area from the warm sun during the cold season. Therefore, the adjacent room will be colder during the cold season.
The Versatility of the Retractable Shade
The best retractable pergola systems are dynamic solutions under your control. This type of awning includes lateral arm awnings, retractable pergolas, as well as drop screens. This type of system can be extended when you want protection from the sun’s rays and retracted when you want to enjoy a sun-filled sky.
The advantage offered in these shades is their malleability. With retractable shades, you can control the temperature of both the outdoors and your indoors. In the summer season, you can extend the shade to ensure that your house remains cool. In the winter season, you can retract the shades to enjoy the passive solar heating effect of the sun in your indoors. From the architectural perspective, one of the chief advantages of these shades is their ability to “disappear” into the background when not in use.
The disadvantage is that these systems are more maintenance-heavy. The mechanisms used in these systems, whether manual crank systems and motorized arms, add up to moving parts that have the potential to break down later on in life. They are also more vulnerable to damage by weather elements. This can include damage to the mechanical arms or even ripping of fabrics if the structure has not closed in time in response to a burst of wind that comes along.
Picking the Right Choice for Your Property
Whether to install a fixed or retractable shade is your decision based on the climate in your region as well as your intended use of the space. For example, if your area experiences strong winds or heavy snow, then a fixed installation is your safer choice because it gives your outdoor space enough protection for you to leave your outdoor furniture under it without having to worry.
On the other hand, if illuminating your home with the maximum amount of natural light is a consideration, or if you wish to be able to take advantage of the sun on colder days, then the best choice would be the retractable system. This system allows for a flexibility that none other can.
Elevate Your Outdoor Living Experience
Both fixed and retractable shades will bring tremendous value and curb appeal to your property. To determine which type of shade you want based on your needs for flexibility versus function and durability, you can balance your goals for being flexible with your goals for being functional and choose one that will be functional and beautiful enough to turn your outdoor space – the patio, for example – into a sanctuary.