Awnings are common in Europe, where nearly one of every three homes has one. But in the United States, where only 3 percent of houses use awnings, they're more of a novelty. That number is growing, however, because people want to spend more time outdoors on their patios, porches and decks. McClatchy-Tribune Newspapers Fast facts
• Typically, awnings reduce the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees, says Susan Haas, who owns Awnings by Haas in Overland Park, Kan., with her husband, Jim.
• Awnings cool rooms with large picture windows.
• Awnings also block out ultraviolet rays.
• Awnings can last eight to 10 years, and keeping them out of bad weather can prolong their life.
• The typical 14- by 10-foot awning starts at $3,500. Motorization adds $800, and remote controls add an additional $300.
• Maintenance involves occasional scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush and mild detergent.
Top trends
• Solid colors, especially neutrals. If traditional striped awning fabric is used, it's typically a rich color combination such as black and caramel.
• More fabric choices. Sunbrella, a solution-dyed acrylic fabric often used outdoors, offers more than 500 patterns.
• Clean lines. Most awning owners are choosing straight edges over the old-school scallops.
• Drop-down screens. These lower from the awnings, blocking out the sun as it sets.
• Remote controls. Awnings should be brought in from the rain. A remote control (up to $300 more) makes it easy because it can be used indoors.
• Accent lighting. Rope lighting integrated into the awning provides ambience.
Another option
Coolaroo, a triangle shade sail made of knitted mesh fabric, above, is touted for blocking 90 percent of the sun's ultraviolet rays and withstanding rain. The fabric has become so popular that the shade sails are sold with hardware in stores and catalogs for $200 to $350, depending on the size. In addition to the sails, Coolaroo also has sun shades that roll up and down, shown at left. Go to www.coolaroo.com for more information. Some selections are available online at www.gaiam.com.
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