One home improvement that will provide ROI in any climate, hot or cold, is awnings. A retractable awning can be both appealing and functional, and can provide savings on home cooling cost by reducing heat gain, and therefore the load on the air conditioners. In most homes, more cooling energy is lost through the glass windows and doors than any other part of the house. No one wants to see their dollars flying out the window in the form of increased energy costs.
When added above windows or doors an awning reduces the amount of heat that enters a home by blocking the sun's rays from penetrating the glass. Keeping excess heat out reduces the load on the air conditioner, allowing the unit to cool the space and maintain a constant temperature more efficiently.
"Awnings over a patio or deck can in essence create a cost effective additional room in one's home," says Michelle Sahlin, managing director of the Professional Awning Manufacturer's Association ( PAMA ). "The combination of contributing to the house's character while conserving energy and makes awnings an outstanding home improvement.
When added above windows or doors an awning reduces the amount of heat that enters a home by blocking the sun's rays from penetrating the glass. Keeping excess heat out reduces the load on the air conditioner, allowing the unit to cool the space and maintain a constant temperature more efficiently.
"Awnings over a patio or deck can in essence create a cost effective additional room in one's home," says Michelle Sahlin, managing director of the Professional Awning Manufacturer's Association ( PAMA ). "The combination of contributing to the house's character while conserving energy and makes awnings an outstanding home improvement.