Which Shading System Is Right For You?

One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is “what’s the difference between awnings and screens?”

Both awnings and screens provide shade from the sun, but the two offer different types of sun protection.

Let’s start with the basics:

An awning shades your outdoor space

We build a few different kinds of awnings, but by far the most popular ones are our retractable awnings (pictured here.)

A retractable awning extends to create a wonderfully shaded outdoor space.  Usually, our customers who choose retractable awnings have a deck or patio where they’d like to sit and enjoy a refreshing drink in the summer months, but the afternoon sun makes it too uncomfortable!

Retractable awnings retract (that’s why we call them retractable!)  and are self-storing when you’re not using them.

 

Screens block the sun without sacrificing your view

Like our awnings, we have a full line of screen products to choose from, but our most common is the exterior side-retention system, which is pictured here.

Screens made with mesh fabric extend straight up and down, making them the perfect choice for those west facing windows where the afternoon sun turns your living room into a sauna and creates glare on your TV!

Using an awning or exterior screen to cool a home is more energy efficient than traditional air conditioning. We participated in funding and research for an independent study which found that shading with a screen or awning can reduce cooling costs here in the Seattle area by over 60%!

Our exterior screens keep as much as 85% of the heat from the sun from cranking up the temperature in your living room.

Making the right choice for your home

Choosing the sun solution that’s right for you, really depends on which problem you have to begin with! We offer free in-home consultations, so we’re happy to come take a look at your situation and discuss which solution fits your needs and your budget.

And don’t worry – our consultations are easy-going and low pressure 🙂

Click here to request a consultation, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.