If you are considering outdoor upgrades, you have likely run across the idea of a Pergola. While most people have heard of these structures, there is often some confusion as to what they are. In the traditional sense of the word, Pergolas are structures made from posts with a crossbeam/lattice covering overtop.
Thus, traditional Pergolas only provide partial shade and are often covered with lush vining plants to add visual interest and increase shade. If you love the idea of a Pergola, but wish for a bit more sun protection, you may be wondering if there is any way the structure could be covered to accommodate your needs? The answer is absolutely, yes!
One of the most popular and effective ways to cover your Pergola is with a retractable Pergola awning. Customers love this because it allows them to experience the best of both worlds, open latticework when the awning is retracted or complete protection from the sun when it is extended.
That way you can enjoy the beauty of a Pergola with the functionality of a retractable awning. Continue reading to learn more about retractable Pergola awnings so you can decide if this might be the right addition for your backyard!
Why Choose a Pergola Awning?
Pergola awnings offer so many things to love about them, however, the most tempting reason to invest in one is for their versatility. These amazing shade features, not only allow you to control how little or much shade you want, but also allow you to design the perfect aesthetic for your Pergola.
You can choose from different colors and materials, like fabric or metal, as well as the option for a retractable or fixed one depending upon your preferences. When you choose a pergola awning, you can create the custom outdoor space you have always dreamed of, so you get exactly the look and function you have been needing.
What Are the Benefits of Pergola Awnings?
Many people fail to realize that Pergolas can be attached to a deck or patio, in addition to being installed as a freestanding structure. Thus, if you have chosen to attach your structure to your home, there are many amazing benefits you can obtain by adding the protection of a Pergola awning. Discover them below:
Give Your Wallet a Break – It seems like nearly everything costs more these days. Cut back on your monthly energy bills, year-round, when you cover your attached Pergola with an awning. Awnings are one of the best ways to reduce heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter, helping you to save every single day of the year. Not to mention, saving energy is, not only good for you wallet, but also for the environment.
Sun Protection – Heat and UV rays are some of the most destructive things nature throws at us. Harsh rays and blazing heat don’t take long to cause damage to outdoor furniture sitting underneath your Pergola. Having your skin exposed to these damaging rays, while under the Pergola is even more serious as it can lead to skin cancer, premature ageing, skin discoloration, burns, sun poisoning, or sunstroke. The good news is all of this can be effectively mitigated when you add the protection of a Pergola awning. Not to mention, if your Pergola is attached to your dwelling, these benefits extend to the interior of your home as the sun will be blocked from blazing into your windows and causing deterioration to your home furnishings.
Enjoy The Outdoors – Being outside is good for your body and mind. However, extreme heat can make it tempting to waste the whole summer away in the cool of the AC. When you make an investment in an outdoor shade structure, like a Pergola, the last thing you want to do is let it sit unused. However, when your structure is unprotected by a retractable awning, you will be unlikely to use it since you will be too hot and worried about sun exposure. Don’t waste your money or chance to receive the benefits of fresh air and nature. Instead, add a Pergola awning to your structure so you get the most out of your Pergola all summer long!
Increase Your Home’s Equity – Simply put, homes with outdoor improvements will bring more money when sold and may even sell faster than similar properties without shade structures. Increase your home’s equity, instantly when you invest in a Pergola covered with a beautiful, functional awning. This investment is small in comparison to the return you could receive if you choose to sell your property. Regardless, of if you intend to sell or not, who doesn’t love adding equity to their home!?
Additional Considerations
With so many great benefits, Pergola owners love what a retractable canopy awning or fixed awning can do for their shade structure. Although, these awnings are far from the only way to make your Pergola more comfortable and useable.
In addition to a retractable awning, consider how horizontal shades could also be used to completely transform your Pergola into a relaxing retreat. This is because horizontal shades can be easily incorporated to cover the walls of your Pergola, regardless of whether it is freestanding or attached to your home.
Horizontal shades are so useful as they provide additional protection from the heat and UV rays, so your Pergola is as safe and comfortable as possible. Not to mention, if you live with neighbors in close proximity to your backyard, you will appreciate the added privacy that horizontal shades are able to provide.
This these benefits weren’t enough to convince you, you will be pleased to learn that will horizontal shades you will remain undisturbed by pesky breezes while you are trying to eat or enjoy a book. Moreover, just like retractable awnings, shades are versatile and come available in solid acrylics or mesh fabrics (in various colors) so you can choose your level of privacy and light penetration, to create your preferred aesthetic.
Conclusion
Covering you Pergola is hands down the best way to ensure you get the most use and enjoyment out of your investment. Host a party, outdoor gathering, family game night, or enjoy relaxing with your morning coffee, evening glass of wine, or book under the protection of a covered Pergola. Get back to enjoying nature, fresh air, and a lower energy bill when you upgrade your Pergola with the unmatched protection of a retractable canopy awning and/or horizontal shades!
