Fixer Upper Explains Why Metal Awnings Are Best For Your Windows

When looking for optimal solutions for transforming and maintaining our homes, few have better advice than "Fixer Upper" stars Joanna and Chip Gaines. They've renovated well over 200 properties, so when the Gaines tell us metal awnings are our best bet for protecting our windows, we're all ears. After all, it's what they've chosen to use on the 100-year-old Waco, Texas castle they were redesigning.

Joanna Gaines revealed in the "Getting It Right" episode of "Fixer Upper: The Castle" that the castle suffered water damage after the awnings were taken down. To prevent this from happening again, Gaines chose to install metal awnings because of their durability. She says that metal awnings "will stand the test of time"  because metal awnings last several years and are known to provide better protection against harsh elements. These solid structures can protect against ruinous UV rays and withstand dangerous conditions like heavy rains, hail, and even hurricane wind forces. Some were even built to withstand the weight of fallen trees.

Gaines also prefers metal awnings over fabric ones because they require less maintenance adding, "I don't want to have to redo the fabric, you know, every three or four years." Unlike fabric, canvas, or wood structures, metal awnings won't get moldy, discolored, lose shape, or decay. This means that it's less likely that you'll have to repair or replace them over time, making them a more cost-effective solution for your home.

The lower cost and diversity in style options available for metal awnings make them an attractive option for budget-savvy homeowners. Metal awnings offer a great way to add aesthetically pleasing architectural elements to your home. Their sleek design can make an older house look like a more modern abode. Metal awnings are extremely easy to maintain since they don't have to be periodically repainted to keep them looking nice. If they do become dirty, all you have to do is wipe them down with soapy water.

Metal awnings come in both retractable and fixed options. "Often metal awnings are welded to the exterior of a home or business, which makes it much trickier than, say a patio awning, to remove," Jim Kopf of Nashville Tent and Awning Co., told Family Handyman. But this can be a big plus for those who don't want to worry about having to take their awning down in the off-season or during harsh weather. 

A homeowner can spend between $450 to $1,250 on a metal awning, with the average price costing $850. The type of material your awning is made of will affect the price. Copper is a commonly used material for metal awnings and is considered a superior choice due to its durability and being aesthetically pleasing. This material will develop a patina over time, but many prefer this look and even apply a coating to achieve it right away.

Stainless steel is also used to make metal awnings because of its strength. However, they do require a layer of protectant to avoid corrosion. While steel is less expensive than aluminum upfront, it is more prone to rusting, which can cost you more in the long run on repairs.

Aluminum awnings are a wallet-friendly alternative since they are cheaper than copper and provide more value than steel. But that cost-savings come at a price. Aluminum awnings aren't as strong as their copper and steel counterparts since this metal is more lightweight. It can also produce an intense and unpleasant sound during heavy rain. It might not be the best choice if you live in an area with frequent hail storms, as the material could become dented. Aluminum awnings are favored in places with humid climates since they are rust and corrosion-resistant.