Canvas Awning Ideas

About Canvas Awnings

• Canvas is resilient and inexpensive and can be used on all shapes of awning frames. Generally, canvas cloth is water-repellent but not water-resistant, and it must be retreated periodically to retain the repellent qualities. Many canvas awnings use Sunbrella material, a tough acrylic fiber made by Glen Raven Textiles that resists fading and wear, according to the Outdoor Fabrics site. It offers a UV protective coating to prevent deterioration by the sun. Other companies offer fabrics that are similar to this product.

Awning Types

• Awnings can be stationary -- that is, they do not move -- or retractable. Mechanisms for retracting awnings into different positions can be hand-operated or fitted with an electric motor that moves the awning into the desired position. The kind of awning you choose depends on its application. Larger awnings such as those for patios or entranceways may require a mechanized system to position them at different times of the day. Windows may require only a stationary awning to provide shading from direct sunlight during the day.

Straight Awnings

• Straight awnings extend out from the exterior of the building in a straight line with little or no side protection. This type of awning can fit a wide range of window sizes and styles. It creates an attractive appearance in either solid or striped designs. These awnings often have a short valance that hangs over the edge.

Curved Awnings

• Curved awnings offer a softer look for linear home exteriors, adding more interest and design to the architecture. This type of awning looks best with single-door entries, according to the WilmingtonAwning site.

Dome Awnings

• Dome awnings offer another creative idea for your home exterior. Dome awnings provide a small, rounded but fully covered area for entranceways and windows. Dome awnings are generally solid colors that match or contrast with the paint exterior. This type often works best with smaller, narrow windows that are visible from the street.

Canvas Colors And Patterns

• Canvas awnings come in a wide variety of colors and patterns to complement or contrast with home exteriors. Your awning contractor can advise you on the best fabric to use for your home design. Swatch samples of the colors and patterns may be available for you to take home and test against your exterior paint for the best match.