What is an Awning?

An awning can add a touch of character to any outdoor design you have. Awning signs.com has compiled information on the awning types and designs. Canopies for example, can add a vacation feel to your backyard environment. When deciding what type of awning to have installed, please consider: the climate in you location, upkeep of the fabric and the cost to install.

Retractable Awnings

There are three major fabric categories for retractable awnings:

1. Classic canvas, or cotton canvas, was the cheapest and most durable fabric for outdoor use. The heavy snap of canvas is almost always associated with retractable awnings. Classic canvas is prone to fading, rotting, and mildew.
2. Vinyl is one of the man-made alternatives to canvas. Vinyl is usually backed with polyester and is made in sheets of solid material. Vinyl is not the ideal material for retractable awnings in homes, but many businesses like the effect of awning signs. The use of vinyl shows how awning signs are given a crisp image without appearing deformed.
3. Dyed acrylic is best in quality and technology; all of the major makers of retractable awnings makers use a solution-dyed acrylic. A clean finish can even be applied to only this type of awning which helps to extend its performance. Awning signs.com suggests dyed acrylic for residential use.

Aluminum Awnings

Metal awning is the toughest type of awning available. A metal awning can be constructed into retractable awnings as well. An aluminum awning is generally fixed in one place, though an aluminum retractable awning exists. Mounting a metal awning to any exterior surface is possible and takes only a few hours to install.

Canopies

Adding columns to an awning transforms it into a canopy. This addition makes it possible to extend the awning even further from the building. Canopies can also stand alone, such as a fabric covered gazebo. Canopies are great for weather protection, identity, and decoration.