Independent Awning & Canvas Company

When you're selecting an awning to be installed on your home, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is between a fixed awning and a retractable one. If you'll always want protection from the elements in a certain location, a fixed awning can make more sense. If you think you might want more flexibility, consider a retractable awning.

Did you know there is a difference between awnings and canopies? For the most part, awnings are mounted on a home or business and become a part of the structure. Canopies, however, are generally partially or completely freestanding, though they can be used to provide shade to many of the same areas.

Awnings have been around for thousands of years. In fact, the velarium was a large set of awnings that provided shade in the Colosseum in Rome. The velarium, made of linen, was also retractable, for days when the sun and weather didn’t present an issue.

As an accessory for roof-mounted awnings, weather guard covers make it possible for you to protect the first six to eight inches of awning fabric material. This provides a means of preserving both the appearance and the durability of your awning.

While our awnings and canopies are dirt repellent, for areas where there are a lot of birds or squirrels, they may soil it beyond the repellent’s capabilities. Rinse the fabric regularly to keep it from becoming stained.

Awnings can be used in a variety of different ways and on many different structures. Besides their common use above windows, they can also be used to shade a backyard structure like a deck, terrace, or patio. Balconies, hot tubs, pools, and driveways are other areas that can benefit from awnings.

It's easy to rack up large utility bills during the hot months, so you want to make sure you save as much as you can. In hot climates, an awning can help reduce your annual cooling energy by 15 percent, and by as much as 17 percent in more moderate areas.

According to the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning, awnings over windows can increase your home's energy efficiency by a substantial amount. On a southern-facing window, an awning can lower heat gain by up to 65%, and up to 77% on a western-facing window.

The terms "solar heat gain," "solar gain" and "passive solar heat gain" are synonymous. They refer to the transfer of solar energy into a space, usually through a window, skylight or door.

Metal awnings are highly effective and sturdy and typically require less maintenance than fabric awnings. Wipe them down when they get dirty.

There are several types of retractable awnings available, depending both on your budget and needs. Manual and remote controlled awnings allow you to control when the awning is opened or closed, while sensor-controlled awnings feature wind and sun sensors that will automatically retract or extend the awning, even when nobody is home.

If you’ve lived in your home for a number of years, you may be a little bored with your home’s exterior appearance. Rather than starting a renovation project to overhaul the appearance, you may be able to satisfy your desire for change through the addition of awnings.