Porch Awning Options

Canvas Awning

• Canvas awnings are fabric panels that provide shade for your porch. They are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so they add a decorative element to your home as well. Canvas is a very durable material that resists moisture well, so you do not have to worry about leaving it out in the rain. You can pull some canvas awnings up and down to allow sunlight on your porch when the mood strikes. Others are fixed structures that are held in place by metal frames mounted to your home's exterior. However, with a canvas awning, you can replace the actual awning piece relatively easy if it begins to show signs of wear and tear or you simply want to change the color or pattern.

Aluminum Awning

• Aluminum is one of the most common awning materials for a porch. The awning structure attaches directly to your home's exterior so it covers the porch and surrounding area. Aluminum is durable and requires little maintenance, but it is a budget-friendly option as well. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles, which are treated to resist fading. You can choose from a fixed aluminum awning or one that retracts, though the retractable models are more expensive. Installation is relatively easy, so you may attempt it yourself if you like do-it-yourself projects.

Metal Awning

• Like aluminum awnings, metal awnings mount directly to your home's exterior. However, metal is stronger and more durable than aluminum. As a result, a metal awning is usually more expensive than canvas or aluminum awnings. Because it is so durable, however, it is an ideal option if you live in an area that is prone to severe weather conditions or heavy winds. It is also effective if you have a large porch to cover. For a decorative metal awning, opt for one made of copper.

Vinyl Awning

• For an inexpensive, durable porch awning, vinyl is an ideal option. A vinyl awning is similar to canvas models and hangs over your porch on metal frames. The awning itself consists of a polyester core that is covered in vinyl. You can choose from many different colors and patterns to give your porch an attractive look. Vinyl is also moisture resistant and is much easier to clean than canvas, so it is very low maintenance.