Awnings are popular additions to homes in the UK, offering a better way of life in homes, and a better setting for businesses. Installing an awning is simple, relatively low cost (in comparison to, say, having a home extension built) and won’t take a lot of work, meaning that it’s good value for money and comes with many benefits. But how do you choose the right kind of awning for you?

If you own a business, there might only be one or two choices for your outdoor space, assuming you have a set space that you want to cover over with the awning. The type you choose will depend on the size of that space, the area you want to cover, the way the awning will be supported, and the appearance you want as well. For example, if you have a large space where people will be eating out of doors, you will probably opt for a butterfly awning. If you are looking for something more permanent, you might choose a fixed roof terrace cover or a polycarbonate cover. The situation you want to achieve will dictate the kind of awning that you install as a business owner.

If you are shopping for an awning for a household, there will probably be more choices you need to make. You might also have less experience of awnings, and be unsure what you are looking for. These are some steps you can take to help you choose between the different kinds of awnings available for domestic settings:

1. Go to a showroom. When you visit a showroom, there will be various types of awnings that you can not only see, but try out as well. You can see how they look, and try out the operating systems for yourself. This will show you how a retractable awning would actually work so you can understand the mechanisms and decide if this is something you would prioritise.
2. Research different types of awnings. Once you make the decision about whether a retractable awning is important to you, or you’d rather have a more permanent veranda or awning, you can begin narrowing down your options more successfully and choosing between them.
3. Set a budget. Even within categories of awning, there can be major price differences. Retractable awnings, for example, will come in at many different price points because there are full cassette awnings, half cassette awnings, and those with no cassette at all. Once you know what you can afford and are willing to pay, you can look at the awnings that will be an option for you.
4. Decide on the appearance. Awnings come in many different styles with various types of fabrics. This mainly comes down to personal preference, but once you know what you’re looking for, you can begin narrowing down your choices.

Find a supplier in your area and talk to them about your options. Any good supplier will be happy to help and advise, making sure you pick the awning of your dreams and will be delighted with the outcome once it’s installed.