When outfitted on your home and extended over your porch or patio, the retractable awning can be a valuable addition to your property. However, a lot of myths exist about these fixtures in cold climates or in cold weather. 

Myth #1: You can't have an awning if you live in colder climates. 

You can have an awning if your home is seated in an area where it is colder than usual or that has especially harsh winters. Your awning can be valuable, and as long as it is well-maintained, it will remain functional for just as long. 

Myth #2: Retractable awnings often break due to the weight of snow and ice. 

If you have a lot of snow and ice in your area, it is important that you make adjustments to the slope of the awning so it can easily roll off of the material. Awnings designed for cold-weather use actually comprise materials meant to repel ice and snow. The only time you may have an issue is if you get a lot of snow and ice in a short amount of time. If you are expecting to get a substantial amount of snow or ice, it is best to retract the awning in advance so you do not experience any issues. 

Myth #3: The retractable awning does not pose the same advantages in colder weather. 

In the summer, the primary advantage of having an awning on your patio or porch is to enjoy the sitting area and stay out of the sun. The awning can be just as valuable in cold weather. You can stay seated on your patio and get out of the sun just the same. However, the awning can also protect you from precipitation and make it easier to keep a patio warm if you are using something like an outdoor patio heater. Plus, the awning can prevent you from having a patio or porch full of snow you have to walk through in order to get inside the house. 

Myth #4: Retractable awnings for homes in cold climates are more expensive. 

You may opt to go for a cold-hardy awning made out of specific materials, but you really shouldn't see the price vary all that much between different models. Of course, there are extras and accessories you can pick up that will make the awning and the installation process a bit more expensive, but that is to be expected. 

To learn more, contact a company that specializes in retractable screens and awnings.