Do you ever find yourself looking out of the windows of your home singing “Let The Sunshine In?” And, a minute later, you’re singing “Somebody’s Watching Me?” If so, it may be time to invest in an awning.
Windows play a critical role in your home, providing natural light, ventilation, and beautiful views of the outdoors. However, they can also compromise your privacy, especially if your home is close to your neighbor’s. One way to address this problem is by installing a high-quality awning. SummerSpace®️ awnings, for instance, not only provide shade and style for your home’s exterior, but they also enhance the privacy around your windows.
The key is to get clear on what awning will best suit your windows. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Tip #1: Choose the Right Type of Awning
The first tip for enhancing privacy around windows with an awning is to choose the right type of awning. There are different types of awnings, including retractable awnings and fixed awnings. Each type has its own ideal situation, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
SummerSpace’s fixed window awnings are made of high-performance aluminum. Once attached to your home, they remain extended permanently and provide ample coverage to your windows.
On the other hand, retractable awnings are a good option if you want the flexibility of being able to adjust your awning according to your needs. Retractable awnings can be rolled up or extended, depending on the weather. Furthermore, they can add an extra level of privacy if and when you sense some wandering eyes from the neighborhood.
Tip #2: Select Appropriate Dimensions and Positioning for Your Awning
The position and dimensions of your awning are other important factors to consider when adding privacy to your windows. The decisions you make will depend mainly on the layout of your home, the direction your windows face, and the level of privacy you want.
If you want maximum privacy, then you should size and position your awning so that it covers your windows completely. This will prevent anyone from seeing into your home from outside. However, if you want to maintain some visibility, then you can configure the canopy so that it only covers the top half of your windows.
You should also consider the angle of the sun. South-facing windows, for instance, get the most sunlight in the course of a day. Therefore, you may want to install more extensive awnings on that side of your house.
Tip #3: Add a Drop Screen
Another way to add privacy to your windows with an awning is to add a drop screen. If you have a SummerSpace Simple Shade Series awning or Pro Series awning extended over your porch or patio, you can incorporate a drop screen into the setup by attaching it to the awning’s front bar. This helps block solar glare and heat even more. Moreover, it adds another layer of visual obstruction from onlookers without compromising your view of the scenery.
Tip #4: Add Plants
Plants can be an effective companion to awnings when your goal is to increase privacy around your windows. They can be placed in pots or planters and positioned around your awning to create a natural barrier between your home and your neighbors. Choose plants that are tall and dense to provide maximum coverage. Some great plant options for privacy include bamboo, hedges, or tall grasses.
SummerSpace Awnings for Better Privacy
Awnings are a reliable solution when you want to enhance the comfort and privacy of your home. By choosing the right type of awning, positioning it properly, and adding a couple of strategic accessories like a drop screen or plants, you can create a private oasis that is both functional and stylish.
Read our blog What Are Solar Shade Screens and How Do They Benefit My Home? for more ideas on how to increase the privacy of your windows. Then contact your local SummerSpace dealer to get started on the awnings that are ideal for your window needs.
