It’s Time to Bring Back Window Awnings

Take a stroll through your favorite historic neighborhood, and you’ll likely find many homes and buildings built before the 1950s with door and window awnings. Initially, they were included in a home’s blueprint for a very practical purpose–to keep hot rays of sunshine from penetrating its windows.  If awnings provide such an essential benefit for homeowners, why did architects discontinue using them?  And is it time to bring back window awnings to residential and commercial structures?

Introducing modern technology for the American home:  the air conditioner.

Air conditioners were invented in 1902 and, by 1933, developed into a system that contractors could install into a building structure.  It wasn’t until the 1950s that having an air conditioner was a standard feature for many Americans’ homes.  Air conditioners were an easy way to keep the indoor temperature cool and comfortable regardless of outdoor temperatures.  So home builders installed air conditioners, and window awnings were mainly eliminated.

How do consumers feel about air conditioning today?

Since the 1950s, many consumers have revised their outlook on modern conveniences like air conditioners.  While they are not likely to disappear, many homeowners are now looking for ways to minimize their use of this appliance.  Air conditioners are expensive to operate, resulting in higher utility bills during the summer months.  The chemicals used in the units as refrigerants, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), are harmful to the environment.  Additionally, because they use so much energy, they emit carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere–which many people are trying to reduce.  A viable and attractive solution is to bring back window awnings to American homes.

Do window awnings keep a house cooler?

Absolutely.  According to energy.gov, window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows.  For homes that receive direct sunlight, this significantly affects the internal temperature of the structure.  Homeowners in hot climates can experience a savings of 26% on their utility bills, while those in temperate climates might see a 33% reduction in expenses.

Bring back window awnings to your home with the professionals at Deluxe Awning Company.

Let us work with you to design the perfect window awnings to complement your home.  We’ll help you keep your home cooler and reduce your reliance on air conditioning systems.

We’re proud to be a local business serving our community since 1982.  Over the years, Deluxe Awning Company has grown to become an area leader in home and commercial awnings.  We believe in personalized service and putting our customers first.  No matter how large or small your project is, you can rest assured you’ll receive full attention from our professional team.   Contact us today to see how easy it is to get started.