A Comprehensive Guide to Awnings
Awnings are a fine addition to
any home or business.
Not only do they add visual appeal, but they provide protection from the sun and rain.
If you’re thinking of buying new awnings, or even if you’re just curious, we’ve compiled all the basics you should know.
Types of Awnings
Though awnings may not seem complex at first glance, they do come in a variety of styles and shapes. Let’s start with the most basic distinction, between fixed and retractable awnings.
Fixed Awnings
Fixed, or stationary, awnings are welded together in a permanent position. They are ideal for covering smaller areas over doors and windows. However, fixed awnings require more maintenance and need additional support to cover large areas. If decide you want more sun in that area, you can’t simply lower them.
Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings can be opened and closed with ease, offering shade and protection when you need it and staying safe and protected when you don’t. They can be either manually operated or motorized. Though they are more expensive than fixed awnings, they require less maintenance and are ideal for covering larger areas, such as patios.
Fixed Awnings vs Retractable Awnings
The major differences between fixed and retractable awnings almost all swing in favor of the latter. First, the ability to move retractable awnings into a lowered position lengthen their lifespan.
Retractable awnings, when opened up, can be vulnerable to damage during foul weather. Lowered retractable awnings, on the other hand, are protected from dangers like pooling water and high winds. You may be thinking that strong winds often come out of nowhere. Even if you leave your awnings up on accident, though, the best motorized retractable awnings have motion sensors that automatically detect wind.
Another benefit of retractable awnings is that they can be installed on the side or roof of a building. Fixed awnings, in contrast, are installed on the side.
Canvas Awnings vs Metal Awnings
Canvas and metal awnings tend to cost about the same, with canvas awnings varying more depending on the type of fabric you select. As far as metal awnings go, aluminum ones are your best bet. They’re more environmentally friendly and are usually cheaper. In general, you should expect to pay between $5 and $9 per square foot, whatever kind you choose.
Both kinds of awnings are also similar in terms of durability. They can withstand the elements year after year, which is why we offer a 10-year warranty on our world-class fabric awnings. We even include a lifetime warranty for the frame and arms.
The main difference between metal and canvas awnings is the visual appeal. Most people agree that canvas awnings are the most aesthetically appealing kind of awning. Canvas awnings have fabrics in a variety of colors, patterns, and awning styles. This allows you to better match your awning to your office design or the color scheme of your home. Speaking of which…
Styles of Awnings
There are many designs, styles, fabrics, colors, features, and options available in awnings today. Your professional awning supplier can provide you ideas and budgets for the awning that fits your needs.
Traditional
The traditional frame is comprised of a down-slanting front panel with or without two side panels or ends. It can be either fixed or retractable. What gives the traditional style such great appeal is that, as mentioned before, retractable frames are best for providing protection over large areas like porches, patios, and decks. Traditional frames are the only ones that grant shelter when necessary and allow sunlight when desired.
Dome
A dome-shaped awning is usually used for covering small entryways and windows. Its quarter-sphere shape provides better protection from the sun and rain from all angles. Similar to the dome-shaped frame is the elongated dome. This style works best for long windows or larger entryways.
Convex/Concave
Convex and Concave awnings are similar to traditional ones except that they cannot be retractable. They have flat side panels but a curved front panel, either outwards or inwards. Both work best for small entryways and windows.
Conclusion
All awnings, whether fabric, metal, fixed or retractable, can add beauty and value to your home or business. As far as door awnings and small window awnings go, fixed awnings are ideal.
The most versatile type of awning, however, are retractable awnings by far. Because they can be extra wide, they can essentially create an extra room outdoors for entertainment. Retractable awnings make great porch awnings, deck awnings, and are just excellent awnings in general.
If you’re interested in getting your free quote for retractable awnings, contact Shading Texas today.
