Awnings and their uses

January 20th, 2014 · Published to Awnings by nicole

Awnings ‘Awning’ is a general term that refers to wide range of architectural shading structures which include aluminium awnings, retractable awnings, patio covers, window and door awnings and entrance canopies to name a few. Although some use them for aesthetic purposes, awnings were purposely designed to help control the levels of light and sun exposure to ultimately save on energy costs. They are also used to protect artwork, upholstery, and indoor furniture. Awnings are typically made of cotton or polyester yarn, canvas woven of acrylic, or vinyl laminated to polyester fabric that is stretched over steel, iron, aluminium, and sometimes, wood. Awnings are typically placed above a door, a window, or above the area along a sidewalk. When used commercially, awnings are usually painted with information such as the business name, phone number, and address.

The benefits of awnings

Awnings are not just used to make a residential or business property look visually appealing. Awnings also empower owners to control the weather in their own terms. If it gets too hot an awning can be unrolled for instant shade protection. Based on research, awnings can instantly cool a place by up to 20 degrees. This is very important for business and home owners as it reduces the usage and therefore the cost of air-conditioning. Awnings can also help prevent furniture and carpet from fading when in direct sunlight. During cold weather or early morning and the evening when the weather is cooler, awnings can be easily rolled-up so you can soak up as much warmth as possible.

Different types of awnings and their uses

Aluminium awnings – this type of awning along with retractable awnings are the most popular and most used for residential applications. Typically painted with baked-on enamel paint and made available in many different colours, they are a preferred shade solution because of their ability to reduce the temperate during hot summer months. They are mainly used to shade patios, and on doors and windows. Aluminium awnings are preferred because of their durability and can last up to 40 years. Aluminium awnings are also the best choice when it comes to permanent all-weather protection because aluminium is three times stronger than vinyl and is 43 times stronger than wood. They are strong enough to withstand the weight of a snow during winter months and are typically maintenance-free.

Retractable awnings – This type of awning has become more and more popular among homeowners mainly because of higher energy costs. There are two types of retractable awnings and these include lateral arm awnings, which are modern version of traditional storefront crank-up awnings and Side or Drop Arm Awnings which are made using spring-loaded side arms, roller tube at the top, and a tape-pull operator. Although these are more appropriate for historical buildings, they are still being used today for other applications as they are typically made up from a more weather resistant fabric.

Pop–up or Portable canopies – These canopies use frame that incorporates an accordion style truss and provide cost-effective temporary solution. They are portable and can be taken into social events. These are typically used when people go to the beach where shade is a must-have, during camping, and other social events. They can also be used as a temporary shade solution for car protection.

Solar Shade Screens – Solar Shade Screen awnings, which are either motorized or hand-cranked, are made from mesh fabric providing users with view-through while blocking the harmful rays of the sun. They are preferred by people who want to have breeze protection, shade, and privacy. Just like other types of awnings, Solar Shade screens block out up to 80% of the sunrays.

Global Shade offers different kinds of awnings for various types of applications. We service not just the Gold Coast but also Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, Perth, Tasmania, and Darwin. Committed to giving customers 100% satisfaction, all our awnings are made from high quality materials and are very durable. For more information about awnings, please visit our main page or call us at 1 800 724 407. One of our staff will be more than happy to assist you.

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