If you have seen an awning on a house, you will probably have thought it made a striking and stylish addition, but you may not have thought of the practical benefits. Here are some of the benefits of having an awning on your home.

Protects from the elements

Your home's exterior can take a beating from the weather in all seasons. It will be pounded by rain, hail, sleet and snow in the winter, all of which can cause damage. It will also suffer from the sun's harsh ultraviolet rays in the summer, which can damage your interior furnishings and be dangerous to humans. With an awning, your home is protected from the worst effects of the weather — it will keep the rain off the walls and shield you from the sun.

Saves energy

Awnings also help keep your energy bills down. By shading your home from the sun's rays, they will reduce the need for air conditioning; firstly, by keeping the sun out and secondly by cooling down the air around your house. The insulation they provide in the summer will also help you in the winter — they will help to warm the air around your home and reduce drafts so that you do not need to spend so much on heating. Reducing your energy usage not only helps with your bills but also helps the environment.

Adds value to your home

Adding an awning to your home will make it more attractive to potential buyers. It will make it appear larger, and it will also make it look as if you have cared for it over the years. The fact that you will have lower energy bills will also increase your home's value and make it easier to sell. No matter how long you are intending to stay, it is always worth considering the eventual resale price.

Adds to your living space

An awning provides you with an extra outside area where you and your family can relax. You can use it to create a patio space with a table and chairs and have a dining area outside or just somewhere to sit and chat. The awning will protect you from the sun and allow you to enjoy the fresh air without coming to any harm.

Just talk to any professional fitter, and you will soon transform your home in a way you never thought possible.