Making the Most of Your Space

Best Uses for Aluminum Awnings: Patio, Pool, Window & Outdoor Shade Ideas

When Florida homeowners search for aluminum awnings, they may be looking for several different types of shade products. At Lafferty Aluminum & Screening, our awnings are not fixed, solid-aluminum covers.

We specialize in retractable fabric awnings built with durable aluminum frames, arms, and structural components. These systems give homeowners something a permanent aluminum cover can't: the ability to choose between shade and open sky.

Extend your awning during a hot Florida afternoon, then retract it when you want more sunlight. From patios and pools to screen enclosures and windows, here are some of the best places to use a retractable awning around your home.

1. Awnings Over Screen Enclosures

A screen enclosure solves one major Florida problem: bugs.

But it doesn't necessarily solve the heat.

Sunlight still passes through the screen and can make an enclosed patio or pool area uncomfortable during the hottest parts of the day.

Depending on the structure and layout, a retractable awning can provide additional overhead shade for an existing screen enclosure.

This combination gives homeowners insect protection from the enclosure and adjustable shade from the awning.

For homeowners who have already invested in their outdoor space, adding shade can help them get even more use from it.

2. Retractable Awnings for Pool Areas

Having a pool doesn't mean you want to sit in direct sunlight all afternoon.

A retractable awning can create a shaded area near the pool for relaxing, entertaining, or keeping an eye on the kids without sitting directly in the Florida sun.

Poolside awnings can provide:

  • Shade over lounge areas
  • A more comfortable place for outdoor furniture
  • Reduced direct UV exposure
  • Flexible coverage throughout the day

And when you want the entire pool deck exposed to sunlight, simply retract the awning.

3. Shade Over Sliding Glass Doors & Windows

Sometimes the hottest part of your patio is also the hottest part of your house.

Large windows and sliding glass doors can receive significant direct sunlight, especially on south- and west-facing areas of Florida homes.

Positioning an awning above these areas can shade the glass before sunlight enters your home.

That can help:

  • Reduce solar heat gain
  • Cut uncomfortable glare
  • Keep nearby rooms more comfortable
  • Protect interior furnishings from direct UV exposure

Unlike permanent window coverings, a retractable awning allows you to bring the sunlight back when you want it.

4. Deck Awnings

An uncovered deck can become extremely hot during the middle of a Florida day.

A retractable awning provides overhead shade without turning your deck into a permanently covered structure.

This makes it easier to use the same space for different purposes throughout the day.

Extend your awning for an afternoon cookout, retract it for a cooler morning, or open the space back up in the evening.

5. Outdoor Dining & Entertainment Areas

If you regularly entertain outside, shade can make a significant difference in how comfortable your guests are.

A motorized awning can provide coverage over:

  • Outdoor dining tables
  • Conversation areas
  • Outdoor TVs
  • Seating areas
  • Backyard entertainment spaces

With motorized operation, you don't have to plan the entire gathering around where the sun will be.

The shade moves with your needs.

6. Outdoor Kitchens

An outdoor kitchen is a major investment, but cooking outside under direct Florida sunlight isn't always enjoyable.

A properly positioned retractable awning can provide shade over appropriate portions of an outdoor entertaining area.

However, placement around grills, smokers, pizza ovens, fire features, and other heat-producing appliances requires additional consideration.

Retractable awning fabric should be kept away from flames, excessive heat, smoke, and sparks. Always follow the appliance manufacturer's required clearances.

Choosing the Right Aluminum Awning for Your Home

When selecting an aluminum awning, several factors will influence which style works best for your home.

Key considerations include

  • Size and projection needed for your space
  • Fixed vs. retractable designs depending on flexibility preferences
  • Frame durability and corrosion resistance
  • Fabric or panel materials for shade and weather protection
  • Motorized controls for retractable systems

High-quality awnings often include additional features such as wind sensors, adjustable pitch settings, and smart controls for easier operation.

What Our Installers Recommend

One of the biggest mistakes we see is homeowners thinking the biggest awning automatically provides the best shade.

It doesn't.

A large awning in the wrong position may provide less useful shade than a properly sized system designed around the direction of the sun. For example, a west-facing patio may need a different approach than an east-facing patio because the sun hits the space differently later in the day.

That's why our team looks at where you need shade, when you need it, and how you actually use your patio before recommending a system.

The goal isn't to sell you the biggest awning. It's to create shade you'll actually use.

Create a Cooler, More Comfortable Outdoor Space

Whether you want more shade around your pool, a cooler patio, or better protection for windows and doors, aluminum awnings are one of the most durable and low-maintenance upgrades you can make for your home.

Lafferty Aluminum & Screening provides professional awning installation throughout Brevard County and the Space Coast with durable systems built for Florida weather, shade, and long-term comfort.

Contact our team today at (321) 652-1078 or visit our contact page to schedule your free estimate.

Back To Articles
Our SERVICE Areas

Areas we gladly serve

  • Palm Bay
  • Melbourne
  • Melbourne Beach
  • Titusville
  • Grant Valkaria
  • Cocoa
  • Melbourne Village
  • Merritt Island
  • Cocoa Beach
  • Satellite Beach
  • Cape Canaveral
  • Viera
  • Cocoa West
  • Fellsmere
  • Palm Shores
  • Sebastian
  • Vero
  • Vero Beach
  • Indian River Shores
  • Winter Beach
  • Vero Beach South
  • Gifford
  • Wabasso
  • Indialantic
  • Rockledge
  • West Melbourne
  • Viera West
  • Florida Ridge
  • Roseland
Contact us

Get in touch today

We're excited to learn more about your needs and provide you with a personalized quote. Please fill out the form, and our team will get back to you with a detailed estimate to kickstart your project.

By providing your contact information, you consent to receive marketing communications via SMS and email from Lafferty Aluminum & Screening. Message and data rates may apply. You may opt out at any time.

Check - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Thank you

Thanks for reaching out. We will get back to you soon.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.