Aluminum Awning Size Issues

Benefits of Aluminum Awnings

• Aluminum is a durable metal that will not rust like steel. Lightweight and attractive, aluminum is also a low-maintenance material that can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Aluminum awnings do not experience problems with mold or rotting that fabric awning often have. They do not require costly special sealers to resist water as they age like fabric awnings do. Aluminum awnings are reasonably priced and should last for many years with a minimum of care.

Odd-Size Windows

• Odd-size windows ordinarily do not present a problem. Many retailers have a wide variety of sizes of aluminum awnings in stock and often can accommodate the customer if a custom size is needed. To correctly measure for aluminum awnings, measure the length and width of the window, including the window trim. Generally, the size of the awning should be 12 inches wider than the actual window size in order to block sunlight from the sides, according to the Try-Tech website.

Sizing for the Angle of the Sun

• The projection of the awning, that is, how much the awning extends outward from the plane of the window surface, is the measurement used for the effectively blocking of the sunlight from the window. This number may need adjusting in order to accommodate the angle of the sun on your property at various times of the day. The best way to provide coverage for your window is to note how the sun angles into the home at a series of time periods during the year. This observation will tell you how long the awning needs to be to provide adequate window coverage as well as how much the projection will allow sufficient light into the room. Generally, the projection of the window is determined by multiplying the height of the window times .070. Awnings are generally sold in 3-inch increments, but custom sizes can also be made if needed.

Installation Problems

• Though made from a lightweight material, larger aluminum awnings may be too unwieldy for do-it-yourselfers to manage without help from others. In these cases, homeowners may wish to contract with the retailer for proper installation of the awnings to prevent injuries and assure that the awnings are able to withstand high winds.