Do Eaves and Overhangs Affect Awnings?

Roof eaves and overhangs can provide shade and protect your home and its foundation from water damage and leaks. Particularly long overhangs may make awnings an unnecessary addition to some of your home’s windows (depending on their orientation). Some eaves and overhangs are more decorative than functional, or protect only certain parts of a building, such as the upstairs of a two-story house. In this case, it may make sense to install awnings over your windows, doors or patio.

What Are Roof Overhangs and Eaves?

Eaves and overhangs both describe horizontal extensions of a roof beyond the walls of your home. The fundamental difference between an eave and an overhang is the former has a flashing and gutter attached to the fascia, while the latter does not. Both overhangs and eaves are often decorative and can enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Other than aesthetic value, overhangs and eaves prevent rain and snow from dropping straight down the side of a building and causing damage to the siding, basement or foundation. While rain in Phoenix is scarce for much of the year, and snow is nonexistent, eaves are still a popular home feature. For example, wide eaves can provide plenty of shade from the sun and protect walls and windows from the penetrating heat.

While eaves and overhangs can be an excellent home feature, they may not provide adequate protection from the sun and heat, especially in the midst of a scorching Phoenix summer. Moreover, if you own a business, chances are the building you own or rent has a flat roof with no eaves or only shallow eaves that don’t provide adequate protection from outside elements. This is where an awning can be an excellent addition to your property’s exterior.

What Are Awnings?

An awning is a covering typically made of materials like acrylic fabric, aluminum or wood. Awnings can be either fixed or retractable. The latter means your awning can be pulled in or pulled out on demand either manually or with a touch of a button.

As the name suggests, a fixed awning is attached to your building in a fixed position over windows or doors of your home. Awnings can be divided into several other categories, including:

• Residential awnings: These awnings are designed for your home and are typically placed over windows, doorways and patios.

• Commercial awnings: These are similar to residential awnings but are placed over widows, doorways and patios of various commercial buildings. Commercial awnings may also feature a company’s name, logo and contact information. Residents of Phoenix are likely familiar with Arizona Awning’s commercial awnings since we’ve installed hundreds of them all around the metro area.

• Freestanding awnings / shade structures: As the name implies, these are not attached to a building. Freestanding awnings or shade structures, including shade sails, are often placed over patios, playgrounds and swimming pool areas, providing much-needed shelter from the heat and sun.

• Metal awnings: This type of awnings is usually made of aluminum. They are durable, affordable and low maintenance. They are less customizable than fabric awnings and can heat up during the summer months.  

Why Are Awnings So Popular in Phoenix?

Awnings are popular among Phoenix residents mainly because they provide relief from the sun and lower their cooling costs. Homeowners who enjoy spending time outside install awnings to create a shaded area in their backyard where they can dine, relax and entertain friends and family. During the cooler months, an awning may extend your living space, creating a semi-enclosed patio where you can unwind and enjoy fresh air after a busy day at work.

Additional benefits of awnings include:

• Protect you and your home from outside elements, like rain and wind
• Create privacy in your outdoors space
• Protect you and your home from harmful UV rays
• Add plenty of curb appeal and may increase your home’s value
• Reduce the amount of heat entering a building, making your home or business more energy efficient

Enhance Your Outdoor Experience with Arizona Awnings

If you’re looking for a beautiful and energy efficient awning made from high-quality material, look no further. Our awnings come in different colors and designs to satisfy your unique aesthetic preferences.

To learn more about our products or request a free estimate, call us today at 602-252-3430.