Why You Need an Aluminum Carport and How to Choose the Best One for Your Home

If you are looking for a durable, affordable, and attractive way to protect your car, boat, or patio from the elements, you may want to consider an aluminum carport. An aluminum carport is a metal structure that consists of a roof supported by posts or columns, and that can be attached to your house or stand alone. Aluminum carports have many benefits over other types of carports, such as wood, steel, or vinyl. In this article, we will explain why you need an aluminum carport and how to choose the best one for your home.

Why You Need an Aluminum Carport

An aluminum carport can provide you with many advantages, such as:

  • Weather protection: An aluminum carport can shield your vehicle or outdoor space from rain, snow, hail, sun, wind, and debris. This can prevent damage to your paint, windshield, tires, upholstery, and engine, as well as reduce the need for washing and waxing. An aluminum carport can also keep your car cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, making it more comfortable to drive. Moreover, an aluminum carport can protect your patio furniture, grill, plants, and other outdoor items from fading, rusting, or rotting.
  • Cost savings: An aluminum carport is much cheaper than building a garage or a wooden carport. It can also save you money on car maintenance, repairs, and insurance, as well as on energy bills, as you won’t need to use your air conditioner or heater as much. Additionally, an aluminum carport can increase the value of your home, as it adds curb appeal and functionality to your property.
  • Easy installation: An aluminum carport is easy to install, as it comes in pre-fabricated kits that include all the necessary parts and instructions. You can either do it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. An aluminum carport can be installed in a matter of hours or days, depending on the size and complexity of the project. You don’t need to obtain a building permit or deal with zoning codes, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations.
  • Low maintenance: An aluminum carport is low maintenance, as it doesn’t require painting, staining, sealing, or treating. It is also resistant to rust, corrosion, termites, mold, and mildew, and it can withstand harsh weather conditions and temperature changes. All you need to do to keep your aluminum carport clean and shiny is to wash it occasionally with a mild soap and water solution, and to remove any debris or snow from the roof.

How to Choose the Best Aluminum Carport for Your Home

There are many factors to consider when choosing an aluminum carport for your home, such as the size, style, color, and material. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

  • Size: The size of your aluminum carport should match the size of your vehicle or outdoor space. You want to have enough room to park your car, open the doors, and access the trunk, as well as to store any other items you may have. You also want to have enough clearance above and around your carport, to avoid any obstructions or hazards. A general rule of thumb is to measure the length, width, and height of your vehicle or space, and add at least one foot to each dimension, to get the minimum size of your carport.
  • Style: The style of your aluminum carport should complement the style and design of your house and neighborhood. There are two main types of aluminum carports: flat roof and gable roof. Flat roof carports have a horizontal or slightly sloped roof, and are suitable for modern or minimalist homes. Gable roof carports have a triangular or peaked roof, and are ideal for traditional or rustic homes. You can also choose between attached or detached carports, depending on whether you want to connect your carport to your house or not.
  • Color: The color of your aluminum carport should blend in with the color scheme of your house and landscape. You can choose from a variety of colors, from neutral to vibrant, depending on the mood and atmosphere you want to create. You can also opt for a plain or a textured finish, to add some visual interest and contrast to your carport. However, keep in mind that darker colors tend to absorb more heat and may make your carport hotter in the summer.
  • Material: The material of your aluminum carport is one of the most important factors to consider, as it determines the durability, quality, and performance of your carport. You want to choose a material that is strong, weather-resistant, and easy to install. One of the best materials for aluminum carports is polycarbonate, which is a plastic-like material that has UV, impact, and fire resistant properties. Polycarbonate panels are available in different thicknesses, shapes, and colors, and can provide different levels of light transmission and insulation. Polycarbonate panels are also lightweight, flexible, and recyclable.

Conclusion

An aluminum carport is a smart and practical choice for your home, as it can provide you with many benefits, such as weather protection, cost savings, easy installation, and low maintenance. By following the tips and steps in this article, you can choose the best aluminum carport for your home, and enjoy it for years to come. If you are looking for a reliable and reputable company to help you with your aluminum carport needs, Superior Awning is the best choice. 

The Ultimate Guide to Metal Patio Covers: Types, Benefits, and Tips

Metal patio covers are a popular choice for homeowners who want to enhance their outdoor living space and protect it from the elements. Metal patio covers are durable, low-maintenance, and versatile, offering many advantages over other types of patio covers. In this article, we will discuss the benefits, types, and installation tips of metal patio covers, and help you decide if they are the right option for your home.

Benefits of Metal Patio Covers

Metal patio covers have many benefits that make them a worthwhile investment for your home. Some of the benefits are:

  • Protection from the sun, rain, wind, and hail: Metal patio covers can block the harmful UV rays, reduce the heat and glare, and prevent fading of your furniture, flooring, and curtains. They can also shield you and your guests from rain, snow, wind, and hail, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space in any weather condition. Metal patio covers can also protect your windows and doors from damage and corrosion, extending their lifespan and functionality.
  • Energy savings: By reducing the amount of sunlight and heat that enters your home, metal patio covers can help you lower your cooling costs in the summer. According to some studies, metal patio covers can reduce the indoor temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and cut the cooling energy consumption by up to 25 percent. Metal patio covers can also help you save on heating costs in the winter, by creating an insulating layer of air between the cover and the window, and preventing heat loss.
  • Extended living space: Metal patio covers can create a comfortable and cozy outdoor area for you and your family or customers to relax, entertain, or dine. You can use metal patio covers to cover your patio, deck, balcony, or porch, and add furniture, lighting, and accessories to make it more inviting. Metal patio covers can also increase the value of your home or business, by improving its appearance and functionality. According to some experts, metal patio covers can boost the resale value of your property by up to 20 percent.
  • Flexibility and variety: Metal patio covers come in different types, sizes, shapes, colors, patterns, and materials, giving you a wide range of options to choose from. You can customize your metal patio covers to suit your specific needs and preferences, and to match the style and color of your property. You can also opt for retractable metal patio covers, which can be opened and closed manually or automatically, depending on the weather and your mood. Retractable metal patio covers can also be controlled by a remote, a switch, or a sensor.

Types of Metal Patio Covers

There are many types of metal patio covers available in the market, each with its own pros and cons. Some of the most common types are:

  • Aluminum patio covers: Aluminum patio covers are lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, making them an excellent choice for metal patio covers. Aluminum patio covers are easy to install, clean, and maintain, and require minimal upkeep. Aluminum patio covers are also available in various colors and finishes, and can mimic wood or other materials to achieve a desired look. Aluminum patio covers are also resistant to pests, mold, and mildew, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, aluminum patio covers can also dent easily, fade over time, and conduct heat, making them less comfortable in hot climates.
  • Steel patio covers: Steel patio covers are strong, sturdy, and long-lasting, making them a great choice for metal patio covers. Steel patio covers can support heavy loads, such as snow, and can resist fire, wind, and impact. Steel patio covers are also available in various colors and finishes, and can be painted or powder-coated to achieve a desired look. Steel patio covers are also resistant to pests, mold, and mildew, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, steel patio covers can also rust, corrode, and scratch easily, and require regular painting or coating to prevent deterioration. Steel patio covers are also heavier and more expensive than aluminum patio covers, and may require professional installation.
  • Corrugated metal patio covers: Corrugated metal patio covers are made of metal sheets that have a wavy or rippled pattern, giving them a unique and rustic look. Corrugated metal patio covers are durable, affordable, and easy to install, making them a good choice for metal patio covers. Corrugated metal patio covers are also available in various colors and finishes, and can be painted or coated to achieve a desired look. Corrugated metal patio covers are also resistant to pests, mold, and mildew, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, corrugated metal patio covers can also dent, rust, and leak easily, and require regular sealing and maintenance to prevent damage. Corrugated metal patio covers are also noisy when it rains, and may not suit every style or design.

Metal patio covers are a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and protect it from the elements. They offer many benefits, such as protection, energy savings, extended living space, and flexibility and variety. They also come in different types, such as aluminum, steel, and corrugated metal, each with its own pros and cons. Installing metal patio covers can be a DIY project or a professional job, depending on the type, size, and complexity of the cover. If you are interested in installing metal patio covers for your home, Superior Awning is the best choice. We can help you design, install, and maintain your metal patio covers, and provide you with a free quote and consultation.

Aluminum Carport vs. Traditional Garage

At first glance, both aluminum carports and traditional garages serve the same primary purpose – sheltering your vehicles from rain, sun, snow, and other environmental factors. However, there are significant differences between the two that can impact your decision. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision about which structure is the best fit for your needs.

Aluminum Carports

Advantages of Aluminum Carports

  1. Cost-Effective Shelter

Aluminum carports are an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals. They provide a cost-effective way to protect your vehicles without the substantial investment required for a traditional garage. The materials used in aluminum carports are more affordable, making them an attractive option for many homeowners.

  1. Quick Installation

One of the key advantages of aluminum carports is their quick and hassle-free installation. These structures can be assembled in a fraction of the time it takes to build a traditional garage. This means you can start enjoying the benefits of sheltered parking sooner rather than later.

  1. Low Maintenance

Aluminum carports are virtually maintenance-free. Unlike traditional garages that may require regular upkeep, such as painting or roofing repairs, aluminum carports are resistant to rust and corrosion. This makes them a convenient choice for homeowners with busy schedules.

Drawbacks of Aluminum Carports

  1. Limited Security

While aluminum carports provide protection from the elements, they offer limited security compared to traditional garages. Your vehicles remain exposed, making them vulnerable to theft and vandalism. However, additional security measures can be implemented to mitigate this risk.

  1. Limited Storage

Aluminum carports primarily serve as shelters for vehicles. If you need additional storage space for tools, equipment, or other possessions, a traditional garage might be a more suitable option.

Traditional Garages

Advantages of Traditional Garages

  1. Enhanced Security

Traditional garages provide a higher level of security for your vehicles and belongings. They can be equipped with locks, alarms, and surveillance systems, offering peace of mind that your property is well-protected.

  1. Versatile Storage

Unlike aluminum carports, traditional garages offer ample storage space for more than just vehicles. You can use a garage as a workshop, a home gym, or for storing seasonal items. The versatility of a traditional garage is a significant advantage for those with varied storage needs.

  1. Increased Property Value

A well-built and maintained traditional garage can increase the overall value of your property. It’s a feature that many homebuyers appreciate, making it an investment that can pay off in the long run.

Drawbacks of Traditional Garages

  1. Higher Construction Costs

The primary drawback of traditional garages is the higher upfront construction cost. Building a garage involves more materials, labor, and time compared to erecting an aluminum carport. It’s essential to weigh this initial expense against the long-term benefits.

  1. Longer Construction Time

Traditional garages take considerably longer to construct compared to aluminum carports. If you need a shelter for your vehicles quickly, this extended timeline might not be ideal.

Conclusion

In the debate between aluminum carports and traditional garages, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice depends on your budget, security requirements, storage needs, and long-term goals for your property.

Aluminum carports are an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution with quick installation. However, they may not provide the security and storage versatility of a traditional garage.

Traditional garages, on the other hand, offer enhanced security, versatile storage options, and potential property value increase. Still, they come with a higher initial investment and longer construction time.

Ultimately, the decision between an aluminum carport and a traditional garage should align with your specific needs and priorities. Assess your situation carefully, and you’ll find the perfect solution to protect your vehicles and enhance your property.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Retractable Awning?

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Retractable Awning?

Retractable awnings are a popular option for those who prefer a little versatility when it comes to their home and shading needs. The most common form is the manually operated awning with a hand crank, however, retractable awnings also come with tubeless motor operation as well.

The average cost for having a professional come out to your home and install a non-motorized awning is around $850, matching the average price for professional installation of a standard, metal awning. Professional installation of a motorized awning will cost nearly triple, at $2,350 for a 12’ retractable. 

So, unless you are extremely averse to using a hand crank, you should definitely consider the manual operation awning, if for no other reason than to save yourself a boat load of money on the installation costs. There is always the option of doing a DIY install of a motorized awning if you’re up for it.

Average Price of Retractable Awning Installation by Type

While the cost of having a retractable awning professionally installed can run anywhere between $850 and $2,350, it’s not always as bad as it sounds, especially if you are just talking about a retractable window awning, instead of an awning that will cover most of the real estate on your patio.

For instance, if you choose to do it yourself, the average cost is more along the lines of $450, however, that’s a very broad average and is highly dependent on whether or not you have the tools available for this DIY project or you have to go out and purchase additional tools and hardware.

If you are the kind of person who has a workshop, a pretty robust toolbox, and you horde hardware (nails, screws, bolts, etc.), then the cost is likely to be far cheaper than $450.

You also have to factor in the size of the retractable awning. The size makes a difference mostly because it takes longer to install and contractors will charge you by the hour for installing it. It costs a lot more if it is motorized because that requires wiring since motorized awnings are battery-powered.

The installation costs by type are varied and are more due to the size, weight, and complexity of the awning, rather than any aesthetic or brand factors.

  • Manual Retractable awnings average $850 but can cost between $500 and $1,500 for a professional installation
  • If its a canvas awning, the price will remain in the $850 range
  • Metal awnings are going to cost a little more, around $1,000 to $1,100
  • Mechanized awnings average $2,350 but can cost between $2,000 and $3,500

As you can see, doing the project yourself can potentially save you hundreds, if not over a thousand dollars in savings, just based on professional installation costs.

Pricing the Installation of a Retractable Awning Based on Size

You have three types of retractable awnings that are based on specific sizes within each type. You have retractable door awnings, retractable window awnings, and retractable patio or deck awnings.

The larger the size, the more expensive the awning is liable to be, not including whether or not it is mechanized/motorized or manual in nature.

  • Door and window – 31” x 24” – $250 to $550
  • Door and window – 44” x 36” – $250 to $550
  • Door and window – 56” x 48” – $400 to $750
  • Patio and/or deck – 8’ x 20’ – $700 to $2000
  • Patio and/or deck – 10’ x 10’ – $300 to $2,000
  • Patio and/or deck – 10’ x 20’ – $400 to $3,000
  • Patio and or deck – 15’ x 15’ – $600 to $3,000
  • Patio and or deck – 15’ x 15’ – $800 to $3,500

As you can see, there is a pretty massive disparity from the low end to the high end for each size group, however, that’s mostly due to the difference between a manual retractable awning and a mechanized retractable awning.

The other differences are more slight, such as the type of material that the awning is made of and the area in which you live. The area makes a lot of difference, as the professional installation of a retractable awning in Pensacola, Florida is going to cost a lot less than professional installation in Los Angeles, California.

Additional Factors the Effect on the Cost of Installation

Several factors can affect the cost of professional installation as well. For instance, depending on where you live, you may have to acquire a permit to install a large, retractable awning on your patio, especially if it is mechanized.

A permit can cost anywhere between $25 and $100, once again, depending on where you live. If your patio comes with an enclosure add-on or if you choose to purchase an enclosure and want it installed as well, the cost can skyrocket.

Any other accessories that you choose to add on, especially if you put them in a contractor’s hands for professional installation, are going to affect the cost of the overall installation. You will recoup these costs over time, with the energy savings that you can pull from a retractable awning, however, it would have to be a fairly large retractable awning to make a difference.

Of course, none of the above is including the costs of the retractable awning itself, which can is another thing that can have a huge disparity in terms of price. Canvas is relatively cheap, but there are also vinyl awnings, not to mention acrylic.

The premium nature of some of the materials that go into the manufacturing of your particular awning result in a higher price point. Brand affects the price as well. Premium brands command a premium price tag and you always have to be concerned about quality when you go with an off-brand.

All Things Considered

The average price for having a retractable awning professionally installed is going to run anywhere between $850 and $2,350, which are the averages based on materials and type. The price can get a lot higher with extremely large awnings or awnings with premium materials that are also mechanized.

Superior Awning specializes in metal awning design, customization and fabrication. Our company has been assisting clients with their residential, commercial and industrial properties for already more than 30 years ago. We are a company that can provide custom awning solutions from the very design of your awning, to its manufacture and then installation. Each of the products we provide has been tested to be long term; we offer from water-resistant and durable fabrics, life-lasting threads, galvanized steels and a wide array of aluminum types. No matter the challenge our company can help you design and build the awning that your house, store or building needs.

Please call  (800) 780-0201 to schedule your 100% complimentary consultation.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Restaurant Awnings for Your Business

When purchasing an awning, a business needs to carefully consider a variety of things. Since an awning is often going to be the first thing that a potential customer sees, the awning must be aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, it needs to be easy to maintain and able to last several years without any issues.

Fixed Awning or Retractable?

No one option is better than the other. It will be dependent on the business.

If a restaurant relies on having people seated outside for the bulk of the year, then a fixed awning may be the best option. A fixed awning is a much more permanent and rigid construction. This means that staff will not have to be constantly moving it around.

A retractable awning is much more temporary. A retractable awning may be a much better solution for those businesses that utilize their outside space for short times of the year e.g. because of harsher weather, or in tourist destinations that may not get regular customers outside of the tourist season.

The Style Of The Awning

The awning is part of the brand of the restaurant it is sited outside.

The style of the awning should be a reflection of the type of food being sold within that restaurant. For example, BBQ restaurants may benefit from a more Texan-style aesthetic to the awning. A restaurant that deals heavily in tapas and food from Southern Europe may see more benefit from a Mediterranean style of awning.

When a restaurant is purchasing a restaurant awning, they need to choose something that will enhance the aesthetics of their property. They need to think about the style and whether it really is giving off the best possible image of their business.

Size Of The Awning

This is the easiest thing to think about.

A restaurant will need to choose an awning size that covers all of the space that they want to use as their seating area. This should be fairly easy to measure.

A restaurant will have to remember that if they undersize the awning, then there may be portions of their patio that their customers will not be able to seat.

It is also important that the awning is not oversized. This could end up encroaching on public spaces, or the space owned by other businesses, and cannot be installed.

Restaurant Awning Materials

For the most part, this is going to be a personal choice. This means the restaurant is thinking about the colors of their restaurant awning, which can severely limit the number of material options that they have available.

Generally speaking, a restaurant will opt for one of the following materials for their awnings:

  • Metal
  • Plastic
  • Synthetic fabrics
  • Natural canvas

It would be wise for a restaurant to choose a fabric that has been specially designed for use in a restaurant. This is because they tend to be treated for the rigors of regular use e.g. UV protection, water resistance, and the ability to keep mold at bay. In many cases, they should also be fire-resistant.

A lot of the choices will have to factor in where the restaurant is based.

Other Considerations

Most restaurant awnings will be nothing more than a simple piece of material covering an area. However, there are some businesses that may wish to have more elements installed in their awning. This can include:

  • Fans for awnings in hot and humid climates
  • Heaters so the awning can continue to be used during the colder months of the year
  • Lighting for those awnings that are likely to be used at night

When a retractable awning is used, it may be worth it for a restaurant to invest in a motorized awning. This can save staff time retracting the awning each evening.

Conclusion

Restaurants will need to carefully consider a restaurant awning that they have installed on their property. Opting for the wrong style of an awning could severely hamper a business. It may even result in higher maintenance bills. Restaurants are advised to work with experienced awning retailers to ensure that they end up with the perfect awning to represent their business.

What is the Difference Between a Canopy and an Awning?

Awnings and canopies are both structures designed to block weather elements such as sun and rain, but awnings are permanent and canopies are not. Awnings are generally attached to houses and hang over a patio, whereas canopies can be put up anywhere and taken down after use. Though some awnings can be retractable, they can’t be completely removed like canopies can.

The rest of this article will teach you about the different ways you can use an awning vs. a canopy and help you decide which one is right for you.

Is it better to use an awning or a canopy?

If you’re looking for something to cover your patio but can’t decide whether to use an awning or canopy, it’s best to think about how often you will use it. If you just need a cover every now and then, it might make more sense to get a canopy since they cost less. According to Home Advisor, awnings generally cost $1300-$4200, whereas canopies only cost around $45-$250.

If you want to have a cover more often and are willing to spend the extra money, an awning could be better. Awnings are less of a hassle since you don’t have to worry about taking them up and down as you do with a canopy. There are also retractable awning options so you can still “put away” your cover if you don’t want it up all the time.

If you live in somewhere that’s often hot and sunny, an awning is a great purchase because it protects the inside of the house as well as the patio. A study by the Center for Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota found that window awnings can reduce the need for cooling energy by 26% in hot climates. That means they may also reduce the cooling bill, which will save you money in the long run.

How easy is it to add an awning to a house?

An awning can be added to any house by mounting it to an overhang, roof, or exterior wall. The process involves measuring where the awning will be placed, finding the studs to support it, then adding the mounts and putting the awning into place. On average the process only takes about 2 hours, but could be longer if the awning is more complex.

If an awning seems like a better fit for you, you may be wondering where to start. It’s important to make sure you are choosing the right style. Retractable awnings are great because they can be put away, which protects them from storm damage and means they require less maintenance. However, stationary awnings tend to last longer and could be better if you want your awning to stay up all the time.

Are canopies easy to put up?

A standard pop up canopy shouldn’t be difficult to assemble. There will be instructions with whatever canopy you buy, and generally all you have to do is widen the frame and pull out the legs which hold the canopy up. Some canopies will require you to put the tarp on before assembling as well. It helps to have a couple people for assembly, but isn’t required and can be done alone.

Canopies are perfect for outdoor events where awnings won’t be available for use. If you’re in a backyard or at a park or beach, canopies are great for blocking sun and rain. Don’t let the thought of putting up and taking down your canopy deter you from getting one—they will make spending time outside more enjoyable and are plenty worth it in the end.