Parasol or awning: which to choose?
Equipping an outdoor space to protect it from the sun requires knowledge of the different options available. Understanding the differences between the characteristics of a parasol and those of an awning, for example, allows you to make an informed choice.
We will examine the comparative advantages and disadvantages of parasols and awnings, both in terms of effectiveness and in terms of installation, mobility and maintenance.
The main characteristics of parasols and awnings
A parasol is a garden accessory that comes in several distinct types: straight , cantilever , and tilting; but regardless of the pole, it is always an accessory that can be moved, with varying degrees of ease depending on the model and its weighting system. Many elements can be chosen independently: the material of the parasol canopy, the pole, the choice between a mobile base or a ground anchor, and of course, the color.
An awning is an outdoor shading device installed on the facade of a building, most often above a patio or balcony. It consists of a fabric stretched over a retractable frame. Like a pergola, an awning will provide shade to a large part of your garden or patio. Again, choosing the fabric is an integral part of the awning purchase process.
Whichever method you choose, you need to select the best quality to protect your space. Prices can vary considerably between different models, so you should carefully consider all the options.
Whether you choose a parasol or an awning, the sun protection factor (UPF) is the key factor that determines the quality of the fabric. All parasols in the Belveo catalog have a UPF rating above 30 , which is considered sufficient for protection against UV rays.
The advantages of the parasol
A parasol is an accessory that offers, above all , great flexibility in choosing its location. With a cantilever parasol or a tilting pole, the shaded area is very easy to adjust to suit your needs. You can also adjust the height of the pole to reduce or enlarge the shaded area created by the parasol.
The parasol canopies offered by Belveo are available in acrylic or polyester, both materials providing effective protection against the sun's rays. A third option is olefin fabric, a pleasant and lightweight material that is highly resistant to fading and mold.
The materials most often used for the structure of parasols are aluminum and wood, which are suitable for outdoor use provided they are properly maintained.
Once the warmer months are over, the parasol can be stored in the garage, while the awning will remain in place, folded up, throughout the winter. The price of a parasol depends on the model chosen and the quality of the materials, but entry-level models are generally less expensive than installing any type of awning, as the process requires specific technical expertise. To install a parasol in the garden, there are no additional costs; simply secure it to the ground or weigh it down on its base.
The specific features of awnings
Like a pergola, an awning requires installation in a permanent location, unless you're willing to significantly alter the layout of your space. This installation must be carried out by a professional, which means a high cost due to labor expenses.
Like parasols, awnings are accessories that can last for decades if they are properly maintained. However, the unique nature of the awning mechanism must be considered; it requires meticulous cleaning and attention to prevent breakdowns. Extreme weather conditions, such as storms or thunderstorms, can irreparably damage these mechanisms if the awning is not retracted in time.
Installing an awning, pergola , or parasol can be accompanied by the use of a mosquito net, placed on the windows to protect the interior of the house. It can also be a larger model of mosquito net, designed for outdoor protection: in this case, care must be taken to ensure it can be effectively positioned on the awning or parasol.
