Window Awnings: Function, Benefits, and Energy Savings

Window awnings are making a comeback, not just for their stylish appeal but also for their significant energy-saving benefits.

Once a common sight on many homes and then largely forgotten, these practical installations are now trending again as homeowners look for effective ways to reduce their energy costs.

In this blog, we’ll dive into what window awnings are, how they function, and the key advantages they offer, including how they can help you save on energy bills.

How Do Awnings Save Energy?

According to the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association, homeowners can save up to $200 annually on energy costs by installing awnings.

With the rise of air conditioning, passive cooling methods like window awnings seemed to fall out of favor. However, as energy costs climb and environmental awareness grows, these traditional solutions are regaining popularity.

Here are three key methods through which awnings help save energy:

Reducing Solar Heat Gain

Window awnings are highly effective in mitigating solar heat gain, especially during the summer months when the sun’s rays are most intense.

On south-facing windows, awnings can reduce solar heat gain by up to 65%. For west-facing windows, which often bear the brunt of the afternoon sun, the reduction can be as high as 77%.

Reduce Cooling Energy

Since you’re minimizing solar heat gain with strategically placed awnings, homes naturally remain cooler. It leads to less air conditioner use and lower utility bills.

According to an energy study by the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association, installing awnings can lead to potential cost savings of between 15% to 50% on cooling expenses.

Shade Creation

The creation of shade by awnings extends beyond simply blocking sunlight from entering through windows. It involves a strategic use of fabric color and material that can further enhance energy savings.

Darker colored fabrics generally absorb more solar radiation, which can be beneficial during cooler months but less so during the summer. On the other hand, lighter colored awnings reflect more sunlight and heat, making them ideal for use in warmer climates.

Fabrics that are designed to be UV resistant and have a reflective surface are particularly effective for energy conservation. Here are some examples:

• Sunbrella fabrics
• Coolaroo fabrics
• Polyester with PVC coating
• Acrylic fabrics

Benefits of Window Awnings

Here, we explore how incorporating awnings can benefit you as a homeowner:

Cost Savings

While the initial investment varies, the potential savings on energy bills can add up to several hundred dollars each year.

Enhanced Comfort

With window awnings, you can relax in your living room on a bright summer day, feeling the warmth of the sun without the harsh glare and oppressive heat. Awnings allow windows to be open even on sunny days, promoting natural ventilation.

Eco-Friendly Options

Window awnings are a cool way to cut down on your energy use and be kinder to the planet at the same time. Some awnings are made from recycled stuff or sustainable sources and are built to last, so they don’t need to be replaced often.

Shade Creation

The shade from awnings creates a comfortable outdoor living space. You can enjoy your patio or deck without squinting and sweating even during the hottest parts of the day.

Less Stress on Your HVAC System

By opting for awnings, homeowners can also prolong the life of their HVAC systems. Less reliance on air conditioning not only cuts down on monthly utility bills but also reduces wear and tear on the system

Aesthetics and Personalization

Awnings can give your home a whole new vibe. They add a touch of style and character, making your outdoor areas more inviting.

If you want a more in-depth breakdown, YouTuber Technology Connections recently shared a great video on why awnings used to be so common.

Drawbacks of Awnings

While awnings offer plenty of perks, like any home improvement, they come with a few considerations. However, these drawbacks don’t overshadow the benefits.

Awnings can make your rooms a bit darker during the day because they block some of the sunlight. It’s not a huge deal, especially if you’re trying to keep the heat out, but it’s something to consider if you love a lot of natural light.

They also need a bit of upkeep. Just like anything you have around the house, you’ll need to clean them and check them now and then to make sure they’re in good shape.

Now, if you’re thinking about how you can get around these issues, retractable awnings or even smart awnings are pretty neat. You can pull them back when you want more light, or extend them when you need shade. Plus, with smart awnings, you can control them with a remote or even your smartphone, which is super convenient.

How Much Energy Can You Save With Awnings?

Let’s break the factors that affect your energy savings with awnings:

Material and Color of the Awnings

The material and color of your awnings play a huge role. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight, which is great for maximum cooling.

Materials like canvas or woven acrylic are excellent for blocking UV rays but still letting a bit of light filter through, so you don’t end up with a cave-like feel inside.

Size and Coverage

The size of the awning and how much of your window or patio it covers also matters. Bigger isn’t always better.

You need the right size to effectively shade the area without overdoing it. An awning that extends just enough to block the high sun while still allowing lower-angle sunlight in winter can help with heating costs too.

Home Insulation

How well your home is insulated will also affect how much energy you save with awnings. If your home is poorly insulated, even the best awnings will have limited impact on your energy bills because the heat or cool air will escape. Good insulation complements the effectiveness of awnings by keeping the desired temperature locked in.

Window Type

The type of windows you have can also influence savings. Double-glazed or energy-efficient windows paired with awnings can drastically reduce heat gain compared to single-pane windows. It’s all about creating that barrier that keeps the heat out in summer and in during winter.

Types of Awnings

Awnings have come a long way from being just a piece of fabric stretched over a frame. Today, they can be motorized, controlled remotely, equipped with sensors that adjust them automatically based on the weather, or even operated manually.

Now, when it comes to the style or shape of awnings, there are several types to consider, each with its own unique look and function. Here’s a breakdown of some popular types:

Bullnose

Bullnose awnings have a rounded, curved front, giving them a soft, smooth appearance. They’re great for covering entryways or windows where you want a bit of extra protection from the elements.

The rounded shape helps to direct rain and snow away from the door or window while still providing plenty of shade.

Quarter-Round

Similar to bullnose awnings, quarter-round awnings have a curved shape, but they are more like a quarter circle or a wedge.

These are typically used over smaller windows or doors and can add a stylish touch to your home’s exterior. They offer good protection from sun and rain, with a bit more of a traditional look.

Concave

Concave awnings have a distinct inward curve, creating a sleek, modern look. They’re often used for storefronts or larger windows where style is as important as function.

The inward curve can also help funnel water away from the base of the awning, making them practical as well as visually appealing.

“A” Frame

As the name suggests, “A” frame awnings have a triangular shape, much like the letter “A.” These are perfect for doorways or larger windows where you need to cover a wider area.

The angled design allows for good water runoff and provides ample shade, making them a solid choice for areas with heavy rainfall.

Vertical

Vertical awnings extend straight down from the top of a window or door, almost like a roller shade. They’re ideal for situations where you need to block the sun but don’t want to obstruct the view.

These awnings can be rolled up or down as needed, offering flexibility depending on the time of day or weather conditions.

Waterfall

Waterfall awnings have a rounded top that gently slopes downward, resembling the flow of a waterfall. They’re popular for larger windows and storefronts because of their elegant appearance.

The curved shape not only adds visual interest but also provides excellent coverage from the sun and rain.

Shed Type

Shed-type awnings have a straightforward, angled design that slopes downward from the top of the window or door. They’re highly versatile and can be used for almost any application, from windows to patios.

The simple design makes them easy to install and maintain, and they provide excellent protection against the sun, rain, and snow.

Conclusion

We often forget that our homes can be cooled passively, without putting all the pressure on our air conditioners. Awnings are a smart, cost-effective way to reduce that dependence.

If you’re someone who relies heavily on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable year-round, it’s worth considering how something as simple as awnings can lighten that load.