A great patio can become one of the most used spaces in your home—especially during the warmer months across Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Lewiston, and Clarkston. But without proper shade, even the nicest outdoor space can become too hot or uncomfortable to enjoy.
The right awning can change that completely. It adds shade, improves comfort, and helps you get more use out of your patio throughout the day and across the season. If you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor space, Best Blinds & Awnings, with locations in Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, and the LC Valley, is your go-to resource. Here are some of the best awning options we think you should consider.
Retractable Awnings: The Most Versatile Choice
Retractable awnings are one of the most popular options for patios in North Idaho and Eastern Washington, and for good reason. They give you full control over your outdoor space in any season. With a retractable awning, you can extend it when you want shade and retract it when you want sunlight or an open sky.
This flexibility is ideal for homes in the Inland Northwest, where every day’s weather is a surprise and the transition from a windy thunderstorm to warm sunshine can happen quickly, even in a single day. Retractable awnings are best for:
- Patios and decks
- Outdoor dining areas
- Homeowners who want flexibility
To make adjustments even easier, you can get motorized retractable awnings that allow you to control your level of shade with the push of a button.
Fixed Awnings: Reliable, Everyday Shade
If you want consistent coverage of an outdoor area, such as a dining or seating area, a fixed awning is a strong option. These are permanently installed and provide dependable shade and weather protection. Benefits include:
- Constant coverage for patios or seating areas, protecting furniture, rugs, and decor
- Protection from light rain as well as sun
- A solid, architectural look
Fixed awnings are a great choice for homeowners who use their patios frequently as outdoor living spaces and want a low-maintenance solution.
Freestanding Awnings: Flexible Placement
Not every patio is attached directly to a house, so freestanding awnings offer shade where you need it, whether it’s over a detached patio, a garden seating area, or an outdoor lounge space. Detached awnings are best for:
- Open backyard layouts
- Poolside seating areas
- Flexible outdoor arrangements like pavillions
They provide coverage without requiring attachment to your home, making them a versatile option.
Window and Door Awnings: Small Changes, Big Impact
Adding awnings above windows or patio doors can complement a larger patio awning while improving comfort inside your home. These awnings:
- Reduce heat, light, and UV from entering your home
- Protect family or visitors from rain or sun
- Cut down on glare near doors and windows
- Add visual appeal to your exterior
They’re a simple way to enhance both indoor and outdoor comfort at the same time, and that shade can prevent upholstery and flooring from fading.
Choosing the Right Fabric and Color
The material and color of your awning play a big role in both performance and style. High-quality fabrics are designed to resist fading, withstand UV exposure, and maintain their crisp, bright appearance over years of use. When selecting colors, consider:
- Lighter tones for a bright, airy feel
- Darker shades for stronger sun-blocking and a more private ambiance
- Patterns that complement your home’s exterior and outdoor decor
A well-chosen fabric helps your awning look great while standing up to the elements.
Enjoy Your Patio More Often with Awnings Designed for Inland Northwest Living
Patios in North Idaho and Eastern Washington need coverage solutions that handle strong sun, changing temperatures, and seasonal weather. A properly designed and professionally installed awning ensures long-term performance and reliability.
The goal of any patio upgrade is simple: using and enjoying it more for family time and entertaining. The right awning can create a comfortable, homey, shaded space where you can relax, entertain guests, and enjoy time outdoors without worrying about the heat or glare.
Best Blinds & Awnings is locally-owned and family-owned, and we take pride in helping our friends and neighbors in homes and businesses across Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Lewiston, Clarkston, and surrounding communities find the perfect awning solutions for their outdoor spaces.
If you’re thinking of enhancing your patio with an awning, contact Best Blinds & Awnings today for a free consultation. We’ll help you discover the best awning options for your home.