Types of Awning Profiles

Awning Types

• Awnings provide shade in permanent and temporary settings. Depending on their material, awnings may protect an area from sun and rain. The type of awning you select depends on where you want to use it. Window awnings may be stationary or roll-up when not needed. Awnings are also available in motorized, portable and retractable styles. Motorized awnings can be installed over patios and decks for providing adjustable levels of shade. You can adjust a motorized awning as the sun moves for providing appropriate protection. Portable awnings are freestanding and designed for use at parks, campgrounds or anywhere you need temporary shelter. Retractable awnings are installed over windows, patios and decks and can be adjusted according to sun exposure and weather conditions.

Window Awnings

• Window awnings shade windows while filtering light and reducing glare caused by direct sun. They can be constructed of metal or canvas with aluminum or metal frames. A window awning attaches to the top and sides of a window. The canopy of a standard window awning is pulled out and downward away from a window at approximately a 45-degree angle. Window awnings are available in various shapes, including domed, concave and convex, and are supported with braces on either side and parallel to a window. A narrow vertical overhang or border finishes the awning on its bottom edge; it may be finished with a scalloped or straight edge. Patterned designs may be used on window awnings for providing visual interest and complementing a building's architectural features.

Portable Awnings

• Portable awnings provide a convenient source of temporary shelter. Most portable awnings consist of aluminum or steel tubing with canvas or other sturdy fabric fixed over the top. Portable awnings are commonly used at farmer's markets, craft fairs and recreational events; you can also use them as temporary shelter in your yard or driveway when you're working on a home improvement project outdoors or having a garage sale. Ensure that your portable awning is properly anchored to prevent it from tipping over or blowing away.

Motorized and Retractable Awnings

• Retractable awnings are typically constructed of canvas and can be rolled up and stowed away when not in use; motorized awnings do the work for you if you don't want to or cannot roll up an awning manually. Prevent exposing your awning to inclement weather by retracting it manually or using its motorized system. Retractable and motorized awnings offer flexibility for adjusting to weather conditions and sun exposure. Some motorized awnings offer an automatic feature, allowing the awning to expand or retract according to sun exposure. Motorized awnings are best installed by factory-trained installers; otherwise, you risk voiding any manufacturer's warranty.