Outdoor Recreation - Awnings & Canopies
About Awnings & Canopies
Introduction
Firstly let us clarify the difference between an awning and a canopy. An awning is a covering attached to the exterior wall of a house or building while a canopy requires the use of one or more posts for support. Such architectural projections provide protection from the sun and UV radiation or from other ever-changing weather conditions. Moreover you can use them to add a nice little decorative touch to your home or business.
Awnings and canopies are typically composed of acrylic or canvas material that is stretched tightly across a lightweight rigid skeletal structure of iron, steel, aluminum or even wood. Awnings are usually placed either above doors, windows, decks or walkways and with the addition of columns an awning is able to extend enough to cover a substantial outdoor area thus creating a larger outdoor living space. Awnings and canopies come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The following are some options to choose from:
- Standard Window Awnings
- Long Dome Awnings
- Dome Awnings
- Convex Awnings
- Concave Awnings
- Patio Awnings
- Entry Canopy
Another popular option available is the retractable awning allowing you to retract the awning either by motor or manually depending on how much sunlight is desired. Motorized awnings can be operated by a standard wall switch or a remote control and can come with sun and wind sensors.
Awnings and Canopies for your Home …
Protecting your home from the harmful sunrays streaming into the room causing your furniture and fabrics to fade away is a must. Awnings and canopies fit neatly above your windows and can be adjusted to an angle or depth to keep your room shaded and in turn cut down your summer air conditioning costs. You may think that internal blinds will suffice, however because the sun will still be hitting the glass the blinds won’t keep the room as cool, plus you could end up losing some of your view.
Window or door size and shape are not a problem. Awnings and canopies are custom manufactured after a simple study of the measurements and the direction of the sun relative to your home.
Awnings and Canopies for your Business …
Today’s commercial awnings and canopies play an important marketing role for any business. For example unique dome awnings can attract customers to the entrance of a building while at the same time displaying useful information such as the business name, address and phone number just like a billboard or sign.
Restaurants often use awnings and canopies for outdoor dining, receptions or parties in addition to providing shade from the sun, protection from wind, or dryness from rain or snow. Illuminated awnings can also be an option ensuring the greatest possible visibility thus making your business stand out. There’s no doubt that awnings and canopies will add beauty, comfort and value to any house or building with the wide choice of colors and patterns to suite any property owners taste.
