Awnings - it's worth buying quality
Last summer was typical - we sought out the shade one minute, sheltered from rain the next. Awnings become more popular each year because they offer a neat solution to this conundrum. Awnings can help you avoid sunburn and soggy barbecues of course, but they also shield indoors from the glare of the sun. This can keep the temperature down in south-facing rooms.
The general rule with awnings though is that you get what you pay for. Good quality awnings can cost a little more, but will last longer and look better. Also remember that awnings are not static garden items - you will want to open and close them regularly. Paying a little more typically means you'll get a stronger and smoother mechanism.