Any structure, residential or otherwise, uses decorations to accentuate its physical appearance. One perfect example of an ornament used by residential and commercial structures is awnings. Awnings are generally attached to the exterior of structures and are typically used to cover entrances to the building and protect their interiors from the elements. In other words, awnings are just as functional as they are decorative.
As perfect as awnings may be, however, they still have challenges to face, such as winter. The accumulation of snow on awnings can also add an unwanted element of danger to the structure. Snow on awnings can add weight to it, causing it to collapse. For this reason, it’s vital for anyone who has awnings to protect them from the dangers of snow during winter.
In this article, we’ll detail awning use in the winter. Read on below to get started.
When to Use Awnings in the Winter
When to use awnings during the winter depends on the climate in your area. If your area has enough snow accumulation, one can assume that it’s an excellent time to use awnings due to the protection they provide. It’s essential, however, to know when it’s not a good time to use awnings.
The best time to use awnings during the winter is usually after October since the weather can still get freezing during that month, especially if you’re in a colder climate. However, some people use awnings during January to protect their furniture and other objects inside their homes from snow accumulation.
The Effects of Winter on Awnings
The effects of winter on awnings can be pretty excessive. During the colder months, awnings create a barrier between the cold air outside your home and your indoor temperature. This, however, can also cause snow buildup and be quite a hassle to you and your family.
Aside from the weight of snow on top of your awnings, they can be affected in other ways. Â Awnings can be affected by freezing due to the cold. Since water has a lower freezing point than ice, water can accumulate on the surface of your awnings. This can result in your awning buckling or even shattering.
The structure of awnings can also be affected by snow. If awnings are not properly maintained during the winter, they can be affected by UV rays, resulting in them being discolored. The UV rays can also cause the awning fabric to tear.
Protecting Your Awnings in the Winter
Awnings are usually protected from winter by using insulating covers, such as plastic covers. Insulating covers can be bought at hardware stores and can defend your awnings from snow, ice, and cold temperatures.
Some awnings are also specially made to be used in winter, and they’re created to withstand the snow load and freezing temperatures. Aside from insulating covers and snow-resistant awnings, another way to protect your awnings from winter is to do thorough maintenance. This can make your awnings last for a good amount of years and withstand the cold better.
When awnings are well-maintained, they can be kept intact, even if it’s the month of January. When you do thorough maintenance on your awnings, you can prevent bursting from water from entering them, cracking from UV rays, and discoloration from UV rays.
Choosing the Right Winter Awnings
There are many awnings on the market, but not all are created equally. It’s essential to choose the right winter awnings for your home, so it’s protected during the winter.
The first thing you need to consider when choosing awnings is the material they’re made of. Most awnings are made of either vinyl or aluminum. If you’re looking for a long-lasting awning, you can opt for aluminum awnings. These awnings are a bit more expensive than vinyl, but they’re also known to last longer, at least when it comes to protecting your home from the elements.
Another thing you need to consider is the amount of area your awning can cover. If you want to protect your home’s windows during the winter, you’ll need to consider the total area you wish to cover.
Conclusion
Awnings can be a great addition to your home, especially in winter. It gives you the protection you need from the cold, as well as the protection you need for some of your furniture. Aside from using insulating covers, you can also use snow-resistant awnings to protect them from the elements.
If you’re looking for awnings in Los Angeles, choose Van Nuys! We offer various customizable styles to fit any home, and our team of experienced professionals will ensure quality in manufacturing and installation. Contact us today to learn more!
