An Awning is a roof like structure, often made of canvas or plastic, that serves as a shelter, as over a storefront, window, door, or deck. Awnings are of different types you can easy install them anywhere you want be doors, windows or patios, awnings basically allow the use of outdoor space shielding you from hot sun and rain. Today, awnings are used on doors or windows in homes and offices using different styles and materials that are considered aesthetic and creative. Awnings, come in different shapes, materials and sizes, they can be permanent or temporary in structure, among other things they can be retractable or stationery.
Different type of Awning Material:
Acrylic
Acrylic-coated and acrylic synthetic fabrics are largely used to make awnings because of their durability. This material tends to repel water and resist fading more effectively. you can choose from polyester fabrics coated with acrylic, cotton-polyester blended with acrylic coating, or 100% acrylic fabrics.
Vinyl
Vinyl is also used to coat awning fabrics. Since vinyl is slightly heavier than acrylic, it tends to have a greater translucency, making them a better choice for illuminated or backlit awnings. They are used in areas that are exposed to sustained high heat and humidity, and are useful in resisting mildew and UV light.
Metal
Aluminum and steel awnings were very common the 1950s to 1970s. Metals offer a low-maintenance, slick surface that can be painted easily to match the surface of the house. However, steel requires regular repainting as it is prone to rust while aluminum dents easily.
Fiberglass
Awnings made of fiberglass are a lighter alternative to metal awnings. They are usually molded with color in the material, so there is no need of repainting, but also reduce your ability to change their look. As a homeowner, you can choose either a slightly translucent or opaque fiberglass awning.
Natural Materials Natural materials include natural fiber canvas and wood which were traditionally used in many buildings. These materials are cheap to acquire and install, but they require frequent replacement and more maintenance.
Types of Awnings
- Stationary: – they are permanent in nature installed to the exterior of the house, they are stable and sturdy against the rain and wind. Stationary awnings are just ideal for small areas such as doors and windows however they have down side as well they require regular maintenance and orientation cannot change.
- Retractable awnings: – Is one of the most popular model in today’s time with the push of a button they can easily be rolled or folded when not in use else you can roll or fold them manually as well though they come at different cost. Retractable awnings are just perfect for small place.
- Motorized: – are more convenient and with the push of a single button they can easily come in and come out but comes at higher price. Motorized awnings are much easy to use attached with an electric mechanism they are functional with a single click they can either be operated by a remote. With advanced technology some of the models are armed with sensors that monitor the weather automatically activating the unit when it’s a sunny day and retracting it when the winds pitch up.
Window awnings: – window awnings are not only useful but are attractive as well they are energy efficient and stop direct sun light coming into your room via windows. These can be retractable, motorized, or stationary.
Awning Styles: Because fixed awnings have welded frames, they can be shaped in a variety of different styles. Here are a few of the more common options.
Required maintenance
- Make sure to dust them daily. If you live in a warm environment than its necessary for you to clean your awnings as frequently as possible. If you want to wash your awnings make sure you use a cold or Luke warm water, mild soap and a soft brush.
