How to Choose an Awning Size for Decks

Decks are wonderful outdoor spaces for cooking, lounging and entertaining guests. However, adverse weather conditions, including the hot midday sun or an unexpected rain shower, can make the space significantly less enjoyable. Putting an awning over your deck will both provide shade and shelter you and your guests from rain. To get the most out of your covered deck, you'll have to determine the size of the awning you need.

Tape measure
Pencil
Notepad

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the width of your deck with a tape measure, stretching it across from one end to the other and writing down the measurement. Next, measure the length of the deck by measuring perpendicularly.
- 2
  Calculate your deck's square footage by multiplying the two measurements you took in Step 1. For instance, if your deck is 15 feet wide and 10 feet deep, the square footage is 10 x 15, or 150 square feet.
- 3
  Include enough overlap space to sufficiently cover your deck. You want to shade your entire deck and not allow rain to drip off the edges of the awning. To accommodate the entire deck, add at least 1 to 2 feet overlap over and above the square footage of the deck.
- 4
  Determine the type of awning you want to install over your deck, whether canvas, aluminum or vinyl. This will be important not only for the cost of buying the materials, but for the installation as well. It will also help you determine which is the most affordable choice for your deck.

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