If you are considering revamping an outdoor space, installing an awning is probably one of the most interesting ways to cover any outdoor space. With an awning, any outdoor space can be turned into a livable or usable space even in extreme weather conditions by simply adding a shaded roof over it.
An awning is a perfect way to create an outdoor hosting space for guests or a relaxing patio where you can enjoy your morning coffee as you listen to the bird’s chirp or rainfall.
Apart from transforming an outdoor space, awnings also increase your home’s energy efficiency and boost the curb appeal. However, to enjoy all these benefits, you need to choose the right type of awning for your needs.
How do you know which awning is best for your needs? What options are there to choose? This article will tell you everything you need to know about the types of awnings in the market.
Types of awnings
Generally, awnings fall into two main categories:
- Fixed or stationary awnings
- Retractable awnings
Both categories present options in numerous shapes and sizes to meet different user needs.
Fixed or stationary awnings
Stationary or fixed awnings come in a welded frame attached permanently to the wall of your house. This type of awning is ideal for small areas such as doors and windows to offer complete weather protection. These types of awnings are built to be long-lasting and very sturdy.
It is important to note that stationary awnings require more care and maintenance compared to other types. Once they are installed, it is not possible to change the orientation and may require extra support if you need it to cover a larger space.
| Pros | Cons |
| Built to last and comes in a sturdy built | Requires more care and maintenance |
| Offers full weather protection | Impossible to change orientation once installed |
| Ideal for covering small areas such as doors and windows | Requires extra support when covering large areas |
| It comes in numerous color and design options |
Retractable awnings
These types of awnings are also attached to the walls of the house but come with the added feature that allows them to be opened or closed to offer as much cover as you need.
Retractable awnings can either be manual or automatic. You need to use hand cranks to retract or extend manual ones, while automatic ones come fitted with motorized controls.
Retractable awnings are ideal for larger areas such as decks and patios, with frames that require less maintenance compared to stationary awnings. Retractable awnings can also be mounted to the roof if you so prefer and can be put away during extreme weather conditions like winter.
While retractable awnings are the awnings of the future, they are more expensive to install and also come with higher repair costs.
| Pros | Cons |
| It can be mounted on the roof or wall | You have to remove them in extreme weather conditions |
| Easy to put away in extreme weather conditions | High initial installation costs |
| Frames require less maintenance | Costly repairs |
| Best suited for covering larger areas | |
| Allows you to control how much sunshine you want to let in |
Apart from the types of awnings in the market, many other factors determine your final choice. You have to consider the type of cover and even the right style for your awning.
Types of awning covers
Generally, you can get awnings covers in either cotton or polyester, and these can either be vinyl/laminate coated or acrylic coated. These materials may seem similar at face value, even though they have a few differences.
Polyester awnings come with the advantage of withstanding many weather changes and can block UV rays and still allow some light to come in. polyester is a highly breathable material, easy to clean and maintain.
Cotton is a traditional material for awnings mostly preferred because of its durability. Cotton is also strong and waterproof. A cotton awning can be cleaned in a washing machine.
Polyester and cotton awnings can be coated to add a little more to them. Costing with vinyl/laminate will make the fabric water and flame-resistant even though it will become less fade-proof.
Adding an acrylic layer onto your awning material helps maintain the fabric’s natural color even though it is not water or flame-proof. Ultimately, the choice depends on the functionality and your preference.
It is also possible to purchase polycarbonate awnings. This is an unbreakable material and can still block out UV rays and reduce light transmission.
Once you determine the best material and coating for your awning, you can now choose the awning style you prefer.
Awnings styles
The style you choose for your awnings greatly impacts the appearance of your home or business. When it comes to style, stationary awnings offer more style options compared to retractable awnings.
Open-sided slope awnings
These awnings feature open sides with a steep slope top side that leaves the metal frame visible. While the frame remains visible when used for a stationary awning, a retractable one does not include the visible bard since it needs the freedom to open and close.
Elegant slope awning
These look similar to the open sides slope awning, with the main difference being that the elegant slope comes with covered sides. The fabric covering either side of the awning encloses the frame more, making slope awnings a more popular option.
Rigid valance awnings
This awning style is also similar to the first two, with the difference being the straight, rigid edge of the valance.
Waterfall style
This awning style features the outwards curve of the waterfall and is ideal for places that require an awning that is a little more visually appealing.
Dome awnings
Just like the name, the types of awnings come in a dome shape, including the presence of round edges. They can either be in the form of perfect domes or a bit elongated to fit the space they are being used to cover.
Scroll arm awnings
These are classy options that feature detailing along the support beams (arms). The detailing is a subtle touch that adds a little elegance to any outdoor space.
Twisted rope awnings
The main difference between a twisted rope awning and other styles is how the sidebars are created. The bars are made into twisted metals to give them a rope-like appearance.
Spear arm awnings
These are some of the most popular awning styles in the market. It features a sharp, spear-like appearance on the side beams, which most people find appealing.
Polycarbonate awnings
These types of awnings come with either open or closed support bars. At a glance, it may be difficult to spot the difference between the two options, with most people preferring the open support bars since they look more modern. On the other hand, the closed bar option gives the premise a cleaner aesthetic.
Additional features for awnings
Most awnings, especially retractable awnings, give you a wide selection of additional accessories. These accessories make the awning easier to use and operate. Some of the commonly added accessories for retractable awnings include weather sensors, motorization, and weather guards.
With motorization, you can automate your awning’s retracting and extending processes. This includes a connection to remote control or wall switch. A retractable awning is easier to use when automated.
Weather sensors ensure the motorized awning can automatically retract or extend when needed. This provides convenience while protecting the awning from severe weather changes.
The bottom line
Selecting the right type of awning for your needs guarantees that it serves you right and meets the home’s needs. With this guide, you are better placed to make informed decisions when selecting the perfect type of awning for your needs. Whatever your preference or budget, you can be sure that there is an awning option to suit your needs.