If you wish you could block the sun but you love the view from your windows, you may be debating on investing in new windows or window tinting. A better option might be to invest in awnings instead. Residential awnings come in many styles and colors so you can use them over a patio, doorway, or the windows of your home. They provide shade that reduces solar heating and they don't block your view. Here are three types of awnings to consider.

1. Retractable Patio Awning

A retractable awning is ideal if you want to switch between sun and shade. You might appreciate lounging in the sun on a cool day, but when it's hot, you may prefer to be in the cooling shade. When you have a retractable awning over your patio, you can have shade any time you want it by pushing a button on a remote control or cranking out the awning with a hand crank. These awnings are made of fabric that adds a touch of color to your yard.

2. Fabric Window Awnings

Window awnings provide a decorative touch to the exterior of your home. Choose a color that complements the color of your paint or siding so the awnings could increase the curb appeal of your home. More importantly, the awnings shade your windows to prevent solar heating. That could reduce your power bills and help you be cooler in your home.

Window awnings also keep the rain away from your windows and that could give wood windows a longer life and prevent paint bubbling and peeling. Fabric window awnings come in many colors and even in striped patterns. The awnings can be dome-shaped or rectangular while the bottoms can be wavy or straight. You have a large variety of choices when you opt for fabric awnings.

3. Metal Awnings

Another choice in awning material is metal. You might want metal awnings on your windows since these can close down and act as shutters when there's a bad storm. You can also buy a metal awning for your patio. Aluminum is a good choice since it is lightweight and it doesn't rust. Aluminum awnings are often installed permanently and held up with columns or posts. If you're certain you want an awning all the time, then getting a metal one might be a good choice since you can have it installed and then you won't have to worry about opening or closing it. Although metal might not be as attractive as a colorful fabric awning, metal awnings have a long life and need little maintenance.