A covered patio is much more comfortable to use for entertaining and daily relaxation. Motorized retractable awnings can provide a versatile covering option that is easy to use. 

Benefits

Any type of awning over a patio provides the benefits of shade from the sun and protection from rain. A retractable awning has the added benefit of folding away for those days when you prefer an open sky above the patio. Putting away the awning is quick and easy if you opt for a motorized version. In addition, retractable awnings can be less damage-prone since they are put away when not in use. This means they aren't exposed to high wind, constant moisture, or the degradation that can occur from UV sunlight exposure. 

Retrofitting

For those with perfectly functional but manually operated retractable awnings, it may not seem cost-effective to replace them. The good news is you don't have to as long as the manual awning is in good repair. There are motorized retrofitting kits that your awning service can install on an existing manual awning. These kits allow you to turn your old awning into a motorized one at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. 

Options

There is more than one style of motorized retractable awning. These awnings are available in a range of sizes, colors, and designs, including custom sizes that are made to fit any patio space. Different options exist for the motorized features, as well. You can opt for an awning that is controlled via a mounted wall panel, or there are those that use remote controls. Smart home technology is also available, which means you can connect the awning to a smart device so you can control it with your phone or computer.

Maintenance

Retractable awning maintenance is very much like any type of fabric awning maintenance, except you may not need to do it as often since the awning isn't constantly exposed. The main maintenance key is to retract the awning only when it's dry so that mildew doesn't grow on it. If you must retract a wet awning, open it up as soon as the weather clears so it can dry thoroughly.

Washing the awning fabric is needed to remove dust, pollen, bird droppings, and other dirt. The motor should also be inspected and lubricated annually to ensure it continues to work well. Otherwise, simply put away the awning when wind is expected so that it doesn't suffer damage.

Contact a motorized awning installer to learn more.