Beat the Heat: Shade Solutions for East & West-Facing Homes
Arizona homeowners know all too well how intense the sun can be, particularly for homes that face east or west. While natural light is a great feature, direct sunlight streaming into your home during peak hours can make your indoor spaces unbearably hot. This can lead to rising energy bills, uncomfortable living conditions, and even damage to your furniture and flooring. If you’re struggling with excessive heat, glare, or sun damage, there are solutions that can help keep your home cool and comfortable.
One of the most effective ways to manage the sun’s harsh effects is by installing high-quality awnings. By adding shade where it’s needed most, you can transform your home into a cooler, more energy-efficient space while making your outdoor areas more enjoyable.
Why East- and West-Facing Homes Heat Up Fast
Homes that are oriented toward the east or west receive significant sunlight exposure during the morning and late afternoon. While some sun exposure is desirable, excessive sunlight can create a range of issues. Here’s why an east- or west-facing home can be problematic:
1. Extreme Indoor Heat
The Arizona sun is no joke, and if your home faces east or west, you’re likely feeling its full force. The direct morning or late afternoon sunlight can send indoor temperatures soaring, making it harder for your air conditioning system to keep up. This results in higher energy bills as your cooling system works overtime to combat the heat.
2. Annoying Glare and Eye Strain
Too much sunlight pouring in through windows can create intense glare, making it difficult to watch TV, work on a computer, or even relax indoors. If your living room, office, or kitchen faces the sun during peak hours, you may find yourself constantly adjusting blinds or curtains to reduce the glare.
3. Faded Interiors
Constant exposure to direct sunlight can cause furniture, flooring, and decor to fade over time. Hardwood floors, rugs, upholstery, and artwork can suffer damage from UV rays, diminishing their appearance and longevity. Protecting your interiors from prolonged sun exposure can help maintain their beauty for years to come.
4. Hot and Unusable Outdoor Areas
If your patio, deck, or outdoor seating area is positioned on the east or west side of your home, you might find it nearly unusable during peak sun hours. Without proper shade, outdoor temperatures can become unbearable, making it difficult to enjoy your yard or entertain guests.
How Awnings Help Keep Your Home Comfortable
Awnings are a simple yet highly effective way to combat the heat and glare of an east- or west-facing home. By providing shade in critical areas, awnings enhance both indoor and outdoor comfort while reducing cooling costs. Whether you want to shade your patio, windows, or entryways, awnings offer a practical solution that improves your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Proper shading can reduce solar heat gain by up to 77%:
“Exterior shading devices like awnings can block up to 77% of solar heat gain, significantly cooling interior spaces and reducing HVAC strain.”
Source: Energy.gov
Types of Awnings to Consider
All Pro Shade Concepts offers a variety of customizable awnings designed to withstand Arizona’s extreme climate. Here are some of the best options for sun control:
Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings are a flexible solution that allows you to control the amount of shade you need. Perfect for patios, over doors and windows, these awnings can be extended to block the sun during the hottest parts of the day and retracted when you want to enjoy more natural light.
Our retractable awnings are even great at night, with their standard dimmable, LED lights built into the awning arms.
Pergola Awnings
If you love spending time in your backyard but struggle with excessive sun exposure, pergola awnings are a great option. These stylish additions enhance your outdoor living space while providing much-needed shade. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, relaxing with a book, or dining al fresco, a pergola awning ensures you can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.
Custom Features for Arizona Living
When choosing an awning, customization is key to getting the best sun protection for your home. All Pro Shade Concepts offers a variety of options to suit your needs:
- Motorized Control – Motorized retractable awnings offer the ultimate convenience, allowing you to extend or retract the shade with the push of a button.
- Custom Colors – Match your awning to your home’s aesthetic with a wide range of color choices. Whether you prefer neutral tones or bold hues, there’s an option that complements your exterior design.
- Custom Sun Blockage Levels – Select from different sun-blocking percentages to control the amount of light and heat entering your home. Higher blockage levels provide greater shade and cooling benefits.
Reduce Energy Costs with Smart Sun Control
By strategically shading windows and patio areas, awnings help keep your home cooler and reduce costs on air conditioning.
Arizona electricity bills are ~30% higher in summer months due to A/C use:
According to SRP, A/C use accounts for up to 50% of a summer energy bill, especially in east- or west-facing homes that take in peak sunlight.
Source: SRP
When less direct sunlight enters your home, indoor temperatures remain lower, leading to noticeable savings on your energy bills. Over time, this investment can pay for itself through reduced cooling costs.
Energy savings from awnings can reduce cooling costs by more than 25%:
Research conducted by the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA) found that awnings can save homeowners up to 26% in cooling energy costs in hot climates like Phoenix.
Source: PAMA Energy Study
Enjoy Your Outdoor Spaces Anytime
Arizona’s warm climate makes outdoor living a desirable feature, but without proper shade, your patio or backyard may be too hot to enjoy. With a well-installed awning, you can transform your outdoor space into a comfortable retreat, even during the hottest parts of the day. Whether you’re hosting guests, having a family meal outside, or simply unwinding in your backyard, a shaded area makes all the difference.
Additional Benefits of Awnings
Beyond temperature control and glare reduction, awnings offer several other advantages:
- Enhanced Curb Appeal – Awnings add a stylish touch to your home, boosting its aesthetic appeal and potentially increasing property value.
- Weather Protection – Awnings provide shelter from light rain and protect your outdoor furniture from sun damage and fading.
- Privacy Enhancement – By strategically placing awnings over patios or windows, you can create a more private outdoor space.
Find the Perfect Shade Solution in Arizona
If you’re struggling with extreme heat and sun exposure due to an east- or west-facing home in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or surrounding areas, All Pro Shade Concepts has the perfect shading solutions for you. With high-quality, customizable awnings, you can take control of the sun and create a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.
Don’t let the Arizona sun dictate how you use your indoor and outdoor spaces. Contact All Pro Shade Concepts today for a free estimate and find the ideal awning for your home!