Finding the Match (Four Tips for Porch Awnings)

Awnings tend to be fitted to whatever area they're shading. For instance, small, highly rounded awnings are good for windows, while large and solidly structured awnings are good for pools, hot tubs, or shelters.

Doors and patios are the most common locations for awnings. These locations offer the most flexibility, both for style and for functionality. Variety is great, but it can make it difficult to pick the perfect porch awnings for your space.

When you're selecting porch awnings, there are a handful of things to consider to narrow down your options.

1. Go for size – but check for clearance.
   The number one reason people install porch awnings is for shade, and the second major reason is to lower temperatures. For both of those, porch awnings have to have coverage so make the awning as wide and extend as far as possible – as long as there are no obstructions and the porch awnings are mounted high enough to accommodate opening doors. At the very least, make sure that porch awnings completely cover the door or window area they cover (to maximize indoor coolness and comfort as well as outdoor areas).
2. Match the color both outdoors and indoors.
   While it's obvious that the fabric of porch awnings should not clash with your house paint, it's sometimes less obvious that the color needs to coordinate with your interior. Porch awnings have wide stretches of fabric that filter light, and the color of that diffuse light affects the inside appearance. Lighter fabrics on porch awnings have a minimal affect. Warm tones (yellow, orange, pink) make a room feel cozy and happy, while cool tones (blues, greens, violets) have a calming affect.
3. Angle matters.
   Porch awnings are mainly for sunny days, but they'll probably also be open in light rains or fog. The angle (or pitch) of the awning provides run-off for rain, which protects the fabric from water weight and extends the usefulness of porch awnings. However, steep pitches also offer less shade protection.
4. Match the style to the architecture.
   Lateral arm porch awnings are such a traditional look that they harmonize with almost any architectural style, from frilly Victorian gingerbreads to stark Art Deco. The key to matching styles is in two areas:
   
   • Fabric pattern
   • Valance style