Awnings
Everything you need to know
An awning is usually described as a covering attached to the outside wall of a building that provides shade from the sun, protection from the rain and signage for a business. Awnings are often fabric constructions supported by light-gauge steel-tube frames, but they can also be made with wooden frames or constructed entirely out of a variety of metals.
Although awnings have a number of benefits today as a widely used consumer product, their use is actually deeply rooted in history. In Ancient Egypt and Syria, woven mats were used to shade market stalls and homes. And in the Roman Empire, large retractable fabric awnings sheltered seating areas of amphitheatres and stadiums - including the Colosseum.
Over the course of history, the design of awnings has changed very little, but the sophistication and uses of awnings vary as much as the styles.
It wasn’t until the first half of the 19th century that awnings became popular in North America - and then it was strictly on a utilitarian basis. Store owners began using them above sidewalk entrances to stores to protect shoppers from the elements. Today, the primary use of commercial awnings is as advertising space for businesses rather than as protection from inclement weather.
Before air conditioning was invented, the primary purpose of awnings in homes was to provide shade from the summer sun. While sun protection is still one of the primary benefits from awnings today - especially with the prevalence of harmful UV rays - awnings on homes add curb appeal, extend a home’s usable living space and decrease energy consumption from air conditioners during periods of peak electrical demand.
In fact, a study by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning Engineers shows that exterior fabric window awnings can reduce interior heat in houses and businesses during periods of direct sunlight by 77 percent. Additionally, awning fabrics don’t trap heat and moisture and can therefore reduce air conditioning costs by 25 percent - a savings upward of $100 a year for homeowners.
Finally, though it depends on the application, awnings come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and styles, and can be stationary or retractable.
If you’re looking to add style and function to your home, we can give you the information you need on how awnings work, how to select an awning and how to clean and maintain your awning to make it last for years to come.
We’ll also show you what’s available for:
From brand research to purchasing tips, we’ll make it easy to find the awning that fits your life.
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