How to Choose the Best Solar Screen For Your Home

Sun’s out; fun’s out! Whether you’re grilling on your patio or relaxing by the pool with friends, summer days can be carefree with a dose of vitamin D. However, there can be too much of a good thing when it comes to the sun. Installing outdoor solar screens or a retractable awning is a stylish way to “throw shade” over your home or business’s deck or patio.

Made for the Shade: What is a Solar Screen?

Exterior solar screens for windows keep hot air outside and cooler air inside. Solar screens are made with mesh to block most of the sun’s UV rays before they can penetrate your window glass. Installing a solar screen provides consistent insulation for the enclosed area.

These heat-beating solutions provide coverage to block out the harsh sun and give you a bit of added privacy to boot. They are available in various opacities, so you can choose just how much light you want to let in (or keep out).

Beat the Heat: What Are Retractable Sun Awnings for Patios?

Available in a long list of attractive solid and striped color fabrics, sun awnings offer great flexibility for a range of budgets. Awning systems are fixed on your home or business’s exterior and are available in manual hand-crank models and motorized options controlled by a wall switch or remote control.

Optional features include wind sensors that automatically retract when gusts become strong and roll-down valances that provide extra sun protection.

Showrooms at our AES Hearth & Patio locations feature SUNAIR^Ⓡ sunshade awning displays where we can help you find the model that best fits your needs in a style that complements your outdoor decor.

What Are the Benefits of Solar Screens and Awnings?

1. Protection from Harmful UV Rays

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but your only option shouldn’t be to stay inside on a beautiful day. Weather-resistant sun awnings are retractable to enjoy the sun on milder days and take cover from rain or stay cool when the sun is blazing. AES Hearth & Patio sells SUNAIR^Ⓡ products, which have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation’s “Seal of Recommendation” on products utilizing Sunbrella® fabrics, which provides 99% UV protection from harmful rays.

2. Reduction of Sun Damage to Patio Furniture

While the sun will tan your skin, it can bleach your patio furniture. It can also weaken and crack the wooden frames. You can protect your investment from the elements, extending its life.

3. Elimination of Annoying Glare

Ever tried reading a book on your tablet in the direct sun? You’re either squinting or grabbing your sunglasses. Exterior solar screens and awnings can minimize the sun’s harsh glare on screens both outside and inside.

4. A Cooler House (And potential savings on A/C bills!)

According to the Department of Energy, “window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing windows.” Solar screens and awnings can cool down your home and give your A/C (and utility bills) a break.

Don’t Get Burned: Trust AES Hearth & Patio for Your Solar Screens and Awnings

For nearly 25 years, AES Hearth & Patio has offered quality products and services to enhance our customers’ indoor and outdoor living environments. We would love to help you choose and install the shade system that enables you to get the most out of the great outdoors without getting burned. Visit one of our showrooms, give us a call, or schedule a free consultation online.