Retractable Awnings and Pergolas: What’s the Difference?

A pergola is a garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which woody vines are trained. A retractable awning is a rooflike structure, often made of canvas or plastic that serves as a shelter, as over a storefront, window, door, or deck. It is important to make the distinction between the two when decorating your lawn or garden!

What’s the difference between pergolas and retractable awnings? A pergola is a garden feature forming a shaded walkway, passageway, or sitting area of vertical posts or pillars that usually support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice, often upon which woody vines are trained. As a type of gazebo, it may also be an extension of a building or serve as protection for an open terrace or a link between pavilions. Pergolas originated in Europe and are well-suited to gardens and courtyards.  A retractable awning is a rooflike structure, often made of canvas or plastic that serves as a shelter, as over a storefront, window, door, or deck. It is important to make the distinction between the two when decorating your lawn or garden!

How is a Pergola Different from a Retractable Awning?

Pergolas are sturdy structures that are not easily moved. Once a pergola is built, it usually remains in its location until it is demolished or replaced. Especially when outfitted with flowering plants, a pergola provides aesthetic enhancement to a yard or other outdoor space. Pergolas may be purchased and professionally installed, or they may self-installed with kits available from major retailers and home improvement stores. It is also possible to build your own pergola. Articles and instructions are available online and in books and magazines at your local library and may present a fun DIY project if you’d rather give your garden a personal touch!

Advantages of Retractable Awnings

Retractable awnings offer relief from heat and protection from UV rays. The area under a retractable awning can be up to 20 degrees cooler than a nearby exposed area. When placed over windows, retractable awnings can help homeowners and business operators reduce their air-conditioning costs during hot weather, as awnings filter the amount of sunlight that would otherwise pass through windows and heat the rooms within. The major advantage of retractable awnings, as opposed to other shade covers and structures, is that they can be retracted when not needed, allowing for maximum natural light on cloudy days and the benefit of changing the look and feel or your passageway whenever the mood strikes.

Be In The Know Before You Install an Awning!

Carroll Awning Company has the expertise and equipment to make and install the perfect residential or commercial awning to give your home or business an even cooler exterior. We can design, create, and install custom canopies and awnings all year long. For a free estimate and to get started designing your dream awning, give us a call at 1-800-999-5617 or visit us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.