Utah weather during the summer season can become unbearable for many. Try to look around your area and you may notice that a retractable canopy is now a popular addition to many homes and establishments.

It’s nice to know that people are now educated on how these canopies can provide so many benefits and are worth the money that they have shelled out for purchasing them.

Benefits of a Retractable Canopy

UV Protection

People enjoy spending time in a patio or backyard but once the sun comes in full force, everyone will be forced to go indoors.

This is when upgrading your backyard with a retractable canopy becomes a good idea.

An obvious benefit of canopies is that they protect your family from the harmful UV rays from the sun.

Since they are retractable, you can choose to open the canopies during extremely high UV days and retract them during cooler days of the year. Sunlight is still good for us but in measured amounts.

For restaurants and coffee shops, customers can enjoy being shaded even during noontime breaks.

Privacy

Want to have some privacy? Open your canopy and you can shield your home or business location from prying eyes.

You can also control the amount of light and shade you desire since the canopy can be retracted.

If you install a stationary canopy, you are limited in controlling what you can view outside. Versatility is a great feature that retractable canopies can give you.

Aesthetic Value

Retractable canopies are an effective way to spruce up the design of your home or commercial space. They come in various colors and designs that will surely complement the theme of your property.

You can pick a color that would either complement or contrast your properties color and design, the possibilities are endless.

Durable Construction

Canopies are made of fabrics that are long-lasting and can resist water. These hard-working fabrics are sewn with UV threads that can give years of protection for you and your family.

If you want added protection from harsh elements, you can choose a protective aluminum hood to guard your canopy.

Energy Savings

With the rising costs of utilities nowadays, home and business owners are always on the lookout for ways to save on money.

Retractable canopies cool your property as they deflect heat during the warm summer months. Since the heat index on your space has been lowered, you now need less energy to cool the home.

You have an on-hand heat controller in your hands which will surely help in lowering your energy costs.

Adds Value to Property

Homes with more usable space usually gets a bigger value when they are listed in the market. Buyers want extra space and retractable canopies can extend the space in your backyard. When buyers see that your living room can be extended into your patio, you have the upper hand to close the deal compared to other properties without canopies.

Extends the Lifespan of Outdoor Furniture

You spend a lot when you buy outdoor furniture but their exposure to the harsh rays of the sun can limit their lifespan.

Canopies will help save money on your outdoor furniture expenses because the sun and rain are no longer a threat to them.

Difference Between Canopy and Awning

You might think that a canopy and an awning are one and the same? 

If you are one of those who use these terms interchangeably, think again. It’s surprising to know that they are totally different.

The main difference between the two is how they are used. We share more of their differences below.

Awnings

An awning is connected to a home or building and usually shades a window, door or patio from the sun and rain. They are smaller in size compared to canopies.

Window awnings keep light and shadows from entering your space. They keep temperatures low and protect your furniture from the sun

They are not portable and are securely fixed to a structure with heavier frames and fabrics. You can retract them against your home or building.

More durable than canopies with lots of colors and patterns to choose from. You have the option of manual operation or motorized units. Compared to canopies, you don’t need to disassemble awnings when not in use.

Awnings can add style to your home and complement your overall architecture and design.

For year-round energy savings and comfort, an awning is a better choice than a canopy.

Canopies

A canopy is a freestanding structure that provides shade to an outdoor area. They are portable and are easily disassembled so you can move them from place to place.

A more versatile choice that you can bring along when you go to the beach or sports field.

They can be a pergola or gazebo type structure that protects your outdoor furniture.

Canopies can be very large and can cover a space for outdoor weddings and BBQs. They can be motorized or operated manually just like awnings.

Lightweight to make them easier to transport, but less durable than awnings. When in storage, canopies should be kept in a dry place away from rodents.

They also have to be disassembled when not in use. You only get a limited choice of colors and patterns.

If ease of use and portability is number one on your list, a canopy is better for you than an awning. 

Read more: Shield Yourself from the Sun and Rain with Deck Awnings

Look Cool Stay Cool with Cool Covers

Now that you know the difference between a canopy and awning, you can now make an informed choice for your home or business. 

Know the purpose and the budget you have so you can make the right choice.

Before you buy your retractable canopy or awning, you should choose an installer that has experience and well-trained technicians.

Cool Covers is your best bet in Northern Utah up to the Wasatch Front. Give them a call for the best products and installation services in your area.