If you are looking for an effective way to block the great heat of the sun in those long summer days, but you can't really afford to invest a lot of money into it, then awnings are the perfect solution. They don't cost much, they are very effective and they come in different shapes, styles, colors and sizes, so you they can also be aesthetically pleasing. If you install awnings for your home, either over the windows and doors or for the patio, deck or garden, you'll not only get the UV protection you need, but you it will also add a nice decorative touch to the overall aspect of your house. If, on the other hand, you need awnings for your business, you can benefit from a great method of advertising as well. Just have them imprinted with your company's name and logo and advertise away.

There are different types of awnings you can choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. Basically, they are some sort of canopies, designed to provide shelter. Awnings can differ depending on the material they are made from. There is a wide variety of fabric awnings, generally used for shade and UV protection. Then, more sturdy and durable, there is a broad selection of metal awnings, with aluminum ones most commonly used. These metal awnings will not only provide shade and UV protection, but will also offer protection against rain, snow or strong wind.

Then, depending on their functionality and mechanism, awnings can be retractable, non-retractable, freestanding, portable, stationary or motorized. Depending on the desired application, the place to be installed and, of course, your preferences, either of these types will provide sun protection, but some will be more efficient than others. If you want more permanent protection, then opt for a fixed awning that will provide the same protection all the time. If, on the other hand, you want the possibility to add more shade one day and let more sunlight in the other, then you should choose a retractable awning. If you want it for your home, to create shade in a sunny area of your garden, then a freestanding awning will be the right choice. You can place it as needed, and it will provide the shade you need.

As you can imagine, the price will vary depending on the type of awning you choose. Fabric awnings are generally cheaper, but they will not provide the same protection. Although metal ones are more expensive, they are also more durable and reliable, so in the long run, they might be a better investment. Shop around and browse through different types of awnings, compare prices and choose the one more appropriate for your needs and preferences.