AWNINGS & CANOPIES

Description: Wikipedia describes and awning as a secondary covering attached to the exterior wall of a building. Today awnings are found on homes and business’ in a

Purpose: While there are many applications, most commonly awnings are used to provide shade over windows, doors, patio and decks. Some awnings however do provide both shade and weather protection.

Types and options: There are two basic types of awnings; fixed or retractable. As the name implies a fixed awning is a semi permanent structure, usually made with a fabric stretched over an aluminum frame. Fixed awnings are also available using all aluminum or steel construction. A retractable awning on the other hand utilizes a frame designed to allow the awning to be extended and retracted.

Applications: Commercial and Residential, windows, doors, entry ways, patios, decks, pergolas.

Considerations:

Size of area: The size of the area to be covered is a primary consideration in selecting an awning. Fixed awnings can be designed to cover larger areas than their retractable counter parts. Several companies however have developed retractable systems to accommodate large areas as well. Explore all these options with an experienced awning specialist before making your final decision.

Attaching options: Most awnings are attached to the home or commercial building. While this maximizes the stability, both retractable and fixed awnings can also be freestanding installation.

Retractable vs. Fixed: One of your first considerations should be if you want your awning to be retractable or fixed. Retractable awnings allow you to ‘open’ your awning for shade, or retract them and let the sun shine in. This flexibility can be very desirable in colder weather climates when the solar heat gain is a plus during cold winter months. Retractable awnings cost more than fixed ones.

Options: The market today offers a wide variety of options that can make awning ownership more convenient than ever. Retractable awnings can be motorized or manually operated. The convenience of being able to extend or retract your awning at a touch of a button is well worth the nominal cost of the motorization option. Motorized awnings can also be equipped with wind and or sun sensors. A sun sensor automatically extends the awning when the sun is out. Most wind sensors will automatically retract the system at pre-determined wind speeds. The latest innovation is a motion sensor. This nifty device automatically retracts the awning based on movement rather than wind speed. Depending on the size and model of the awning, drop down shades can be added for that late afternoon sun or added privacy. Ask our awning specialist for all the details on how to maximize your particular awning.