On the one hand, the positive weather stimulates using balconies and patios, but the excessive sunlight and UV radiation may literally drive you out of those places during the high hours. An awning can make outdoor spaces to be relaxing returns where the inhabitants get to spend a lot of time during the day and across seasons.
The high summer temperatures usually scale above 40C (104F) rendering the outdoor, uncovered areas quite unusable during the daytime. Solar radiation is very uncomfortable as it exposes you to health risks of UV exposure and direct sunlight may rot outdoor furniture in addition to causing corrosion of flooring compounds.
This phenomenon increases the discomfort time and also restricts the time usage of balconies and patios to as early as morning and late evening. An awning will help resolve these issues since it can help establish regulated shaded areas that will keep surfaces cool during the day.
With the help of a properly designed awning, it is possible to construct a microclimate in the covered space where the ambient temperature is greatly lowered. Awnings have the potential to reduce direct sunlight, which in turn can cool down the surface by 10-15 which makes the outdoor settings comfortable even in times of intense heat levels.
An awning shields the sun and therefore floor covering materials, furniture, and immediate surfaces do not absorb the solar heat. By keeping them cooler, they no longer are radiating back into the space the heat that they have already been storing throughout the day; they help to keep a more comfortable environment over a longer period of time.
An awning dramatically extends the usable hours of outdoor spaces by creating comfortable conditions during traditionally uncomfortable periods. Morning hours that might be too bright or warm become pleasant for breakfast or coffee, while afternoon periods that would normally be unbearable become suitable for relaxation or entertainment.
During the UAE’s cooler months from November to March, awnings provide protection from occasional rain while maintaining the pleasant outdoor environment. The coverage allows continued use of outdoor spaces regardless of minor weather variations, maximizing the investment in outdoor furniture and décor.
Installing an awning over balconies and patios provides significant energy efficiency benefits for adjacent indoor spaces. By preventing direct sunlight from entering through windows and sliding doors, awnings reduce solar heat gain that would otherwise increase cooling loads on air conditioning systems.
Modern awning systems offer remarkable versatility to accommodate different outdoor spaces and user preferences. Retractable awnings provide the flexibility to extend coverage when needed while allowing full sun exposure during cooler periods or when maximum natural light is desired.
Fixed awnings create permanent shade zones that can be designed to complement architectural features while providing consistent protection. These installations work particularly well for spaces that require continuous shade protection throughout the day.