When you have decided that you want to add awnings to your backyard patio or deck, you are making an investment that can enhance the appearance of your home and provide shading and UV protection for you and your family. To help you make the right decision, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about awnings.

Are Awnings Waterproof? -- Most awnings are made from material that is porous, so they are not waterproof. However, you can now buy awnings made with an aluminium alloy powder-coated frame that is rust-proof, corrosion-proof and waterproof. This type of awning is much more expensive than awnings made from fabric, but it gives you the flexibility of sitting under your awning even if it's raining outside.

What is A Retractable Awning? -- A retractable awning is one in which the awning extends and retracts based on your preference. So if the weather is sunny and bright, you can extend the retractable awning to provide the amount of shade you want. If the weather is grey and cloudy, you can retract the awning to receive more available light. Retractable awnings give you the greatest level of control over how much shade or light you want on your patio or deck. They also tend to last longer because the awnings aren't constantly exposed to the elements, which makes them more durable.

What Is A Fixed Awning? -- A fixed awning, as the name implies, is an awning that remains in a permanent extended configuration. This means that you will always receive some level of shade if you invest in a fixed awning because it can't be retracted. Fixed awnings are more affordable than retractable awnings, so if your budget is a big consideration, then this is the best choice. But you will have to do more maintenance on a fixed awning, because the components are exposed to the elements and are more prone to wear and tear.

What Controls Can One Get With Their Retractable Awning? -- Retractable awnings come with manual controls or motorised controls. With a manual control, you use a crank to open and close the awning. With a motorised control, you either use a wall switch to extend and retract the awning or a remote control to open and close the awning. Some companies also provide you with a power outage override option that lets you use your retractable awning when there is a blackout.

Contact a company like Inspired Window Coverings if you have specific questions about different types of awnings.