Taking the first step toward beautifying your backyard can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be! With so many options available, it's very easy to become overwhelmed and confused about how to move forward. However, this huge selection of options allows homeowners a wide variety of patio screens and awnings that perfectly suit their needs. Here are five important factors to consider while choosing your newest outdoor features.

1. Material Quality

As with any investment, homeowners want to stretch their budget as far as possible. While it may be tempting to always jump at the cheapest option, consider every unique feature of each product to ensure it meets your needs. It's better to invest the money upfront on high-quality awnings or patio screens so they will last for a long time.

Look for sturdy fabrics if you expect high winds, waterproof materials if you often get rain, or polyester products if you'd like to avoid mold and mildew. According to Forbes, polyester is the most cost-effective material, starting at just 70 cents per square foot. Regardless of your needs, always seek professional advice to ensure you get the best products. Choosing a high-quality product allows for increased longevity, ease of cleaning, and improved appearance that will make your investment well worth it.

2. UV Protection

One of the main features of these backyard additions is UV protection. UV rays are produced by the sun and are harmful to home products and humans alike. They deteriorate exposed materials over their lifetimes and cause similar damage to the human skin and eyes. Protection from the dangerous rays should be a top priority for your new additions.

For your awning, polyester and nylon often block the majority of this harmful light. While they may not appear to block light, patio screens also reflect some of these dangerous rays, especially when materials like fiberglass and aluminum are used. Consider these aspects when deciding your next outdoor addition.

3. Size and Coverage

People buy awnings for a very specific purpose: to block the elements from reaching their patio. If your new feature is improperly sized, those elements could easily find their way to your patio, rendering your investment worthless. Always contact a reputable contractor to ensure a new awning will fit your patio.

Measure every feature that needs to be covered, and relay it to an expert for their opinion. The smartest choice is to leave the measuring entirely to the contractor, as they often have tools that allow for extremely precise measurements. Don't get caught in the rain or sun; ensure your patio is properly covered with the help of a pro.

4. Style and Design

Your house is your personal oasis, and each individual will have their ideal image of how their home should appear. Thankfully, there are plenty of styles and designs for both patio screens and awnings. Peruse every option carefully, and consider how each one will look in your space. Look at landscaping, paint, and architecture to decide upon the color, style, and design.

An awning will have many styles, such as motorized, retractable, and fixed. Within each of these categories, colors and designs are abundant, and there will always be an option regardless of how your home looks. Furthermore, patio screens can be single-hung, double-hung, or picture-style, and they will come in many different colors and materials. Create the patio of your dreams with the perfectly styled motorized shades you deserve!

5. Installation and Maintenance

When purchasing an outdoor feature, it's crucial to decide how it will be installed. Some savvy individuals can install awnings by themselves, but it's always recommended to hire a retractable awning installation specialist to ensure the perfect fit. A proper installation will reduce the risk of injury from falling parts and can increase the lifespan of the new feature.

Each investment in your home is never a set-and-forget option. Almost everything will require some amount of maintenance to ensure proper function and clean surfaces. Ask your trusted expert if your newest outdoor feature is easy to clean and maintain. Consider hiring a specialist to care for your patio screens and awnings to keep them at their best for many years.

New awnings or patio screens are an exciting investment that can turn your backyard into the oasis you deserve. For high-quality products and an expert team, call Sunshades Awning Company, Inc. Our experienced team offers free in-home estimates.