Types of Awnings

When it comes to choosing the best home awnings, commercial awnings or RV awnings, consider what material is used to make the awnings. Typical materials for awning covers include cotton, polyester, metal, canvas, wood and polycarbonate.

Cotton awnings are one of the most well-known options as they are affordable, breathable, flexible and waterproof. All you have to do to clean these awnings is toss them in your washing machine.

Polyester awnings are breathable and easy to clean. If your polyester awnings look dingy, use water and detergent to clean them. What’s more, this material is a great option for letting sunshine in while still blocking harmful UV rays.

Metal awnings are durable and strong, but their weight means they often require professional installation. Another point worth considering is that metal can absorb heat and transfer that heat to your patio or deck.

Canvas awnings are the most affordable and durable choice. They have the tendency to serve as a basin for snow and rain, creating a potential safety hazard or damaging the frame.

Wood awnings are not as common, but a strong option to consider. While water resistant, they are not waterproof. A heavy rain or snow can warp the wood and bend it out of shape. Also, there is increased risk of fire with wood awnings.

Polycarbonate awnings withstand intense heat and weather. They also reduce light transmission and block harmful UV rays. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, durable awning, this one is your best bet.

Retractable awnings are the most popular type of awnings. They provide a great, space-saving solution since they can be rolled or folded up when not in use. Retractable awnings can also withstand damage from wind or storms, or rolled or folded during bad weather. Types of retractable awnings include manual awnings, motorized awnings and remote-control awnings. Several different styles are available, such as concave, slope and waterfall.

Retractable awnings last as long as their stationary alternatives and their frames require less maintenance. However, the initial expense is higher, and repairs to awning material can be costly. Consider all these factors carefully when choosing which type of awning is best for you and your home.

Retractable motorized awnings often include high-tech sun, wind and rain sensors that alert you when the awning should be put away. Motorized controls can be operated through wall switches or remote, making it easy to store the awning during inclement weather.

Unlike retractable awnings, fixed awnings are stationary on a building’s exterior. The structure is stable, but it can be damaged by wind or heavy snowfall. Hire an installation expert to make sure your fixed awnings withstand whatever nature might throw at them. Stationary awnings vary significantly in canopy material, dimensions and style. As far as styles go, your options are dome, elongated dome, eyebrow, concave and waterfall.

Stationary awnings are durable and last a long time, although they require more maintenance than their retractable counterparts. It’s also worth considering that you cannot change the orientation or position of the awnings once they’re in place. Before installing stationary window awnings, door awnings or patio awnings, know exactly where you want it. If you want to permanently shade or protect a certain area outside your home, stationary awnings might be your best bet.

Metal window awnings provide the same shade and protection as other types of awnings, but can last much longer. They are fixed in place and can withstand extreme weather conditions if mounted correctly. Metal window awnings come in both classic and contemporary styles.