AWNINGS
AWNINGS
An awning or overhang is a secondary covering attached to the exterior wall of a building. It is typically composed of canvas woven of acrylic, cotton or polyester yarn, or vinyl laminated to polyester fabric that is stretched tightly over a light structure of aluminium, iron or steel, possibly coot or transparent material (used to cover solar thermal panels in the summer, but that must allow as much light as possible in the winter). The configuration of this structure is something of a truss, space frame or planar frame. Awnings are also often constructed of aluminium understructure with aluminium sheeting. These aluminium awnings are often used when a fabric awning is not a practical application where snow load as well as wind loads may be a factor.he location of an awning on a building may be above a window, a door, or above the area along a sidewalk. With the addition of columns an awning becomes a canopy, which is able to extend further from a building, as in the case of an entrance to a hotel. Restaurants often use awnings broad enough to cover substantial outdoor area for outdoor dining, parties, or reception.
TIn commercial buildings, an awning is often painted with information as to the name, business, and address, thus acting as a sign or billboard as well as providing shade, breaking strong winds, and protecting from rain or snow. In areas with wintry weather, most awnings do not have to be taken down at the end of the summer – they can remain retracted against the building all winter long, or be designed and built for those conditions.
FACTS ABOUT RETRACTABLE AWNINGS
- Most popular awnings are motorized, meaning they can fully retract in about a minute automatically or by the use of a remote control.
- Retractable awnings require little to no maintenance.
- If you are a business owner, implementing a retractable awning could expand your seating capacity (think restaurant patio) and raise property values without needing a general contractor or architect. More seating = More business =More money!
- Retractable awnings are almost everywhere you look, especially if you are in a downtown neighborhood. They are great for restaurants, hotel entryways and small businesses. Take a look around!
- Awnings decrease heat and shield UV rays during those hot summer months.
- When awnings are installed over windows, they can reduce glare by 94 percent and exterior heat by 77 percent. This reduces the temperature inside your home by 8 to 15 degrees, cutting air conditioning costs by 25 percent.
- Awnings give your home and business an aesthetic edge. They can be a key factor in selling your home later or drawing customers into your business today.
- Some awning models have weather sensors that automatically adjust the awning based on severe heat or damaging wind.
- Awnings give you the opportunity to enjoy activities outdoor regardless of the weather. For example, enjoying a hot tub in the snow or rain without being disrupted by the downfall.