Awnings are mounted outside the home above a window, door or even patio area.  Their purpose is to reduce the amount of sunlight and heat that enters the home, thereby making the home more comfortable and reducing the risk of furniture and curtains fading.

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Types of Awnings

Awnings can be horizontal or vertical in shape, retractable or fixed, and can be either see-through or fully opaque, depending on the situation. Retractable awnings have one side fixed to the wall and it can be extended or retracted when needed using a manually or electronically operated control.  Fixed awnings have one side affixed to the wall with the other sides permanently supported by a metal framework.

In terms of functionality you have the following options in terms of types:

• Retractable
• Automatic/Motorised
• Fixed
  
• Verandah
• Drop Arm
• Straight Drop
• Freestanding
  

Awning Fabric

Because awnings are situated outside, the fabric that they are made from needs to stand up to different weather conditions, from full sun to rain.  The fabric used in awnings comes in a range of patterns and colours and should come treated to help prevent mildew and rotting.