Awnings fall into two categories, fixed and retractable. A fixed awning doesn't move of course, and may require a permit to construct. Obviously once it is installed it is always there, and there is no flexibility.

These are supported by poles which can potentially block your view of the yard, or even the landscape behind your house. Deck awnings and patio awnings are generally what people are looking for when shopping for the retractable version talked about here.

Retractable awnings retract back against the home, letting in additional light to your home if that what you desire. This allows the homeowner the flexibility to change things up depending on the weather. If severe weather rolls in, a retractable awning can be closed in to avoid potential damage to the awning material. Try that with a fixed awning! You could easily suffer thousands of dollars in damage during a hailstorm.

Next, consider the two types of retractable awnings, specifically motorized and manual. What differences are there between the two types of awnings?

A motorized awning is of course just that, powered by a small motor. It doesn't require any manual labor to expand or retract. Well, no work other than using a remote control or pushing a button. A motorized retractable awning will cost more up front, but it will eliminate the inconvenience of having to always run outside to have your retractable awning set according to the homeowner's desire.

A manual retractable awning will require a little extra work on for the user. A manual crank is used in this setup to expand and retract the awning. Initial costs are of course smaller, but after a while you will tend to get annoyed with having to go in and out to do the work yourself. My general advice is pay a little extra for the motorized retractable awning. You won't be sorry later, whereas you may regret this with a manual awning.

Another important reason for installing a retractable awning is that it can save you money on your cooling costs. How? Up to 38 percent of the unwanted heat that penetrates your house comes in via glass doors and windows. Using your retractable awning to bounce the sunlight away from your home on hot days and retracting it during the winter will let the sun in to heat your house.

By managing the intense sun hitting your house, you can drastically reduce your energy use during the hot summer months. Retractable awnings can also cut intense glare and provide UV ray protection.

Many wonder about the installation process, is it something you can do by yourself. Generally most awning installations can be done be two people with minimal tool needed.

One point to remember with motorized retractable awnings, you need a power source. If you don't have an electrical outlet outside, an electrician will have to be hired to place the needed power source.