Awning, Retractable Awnings, Window Awnings

Awning – Introduction

An Awning is an exterior roof like covering that is attached to exterior wall of a building and usually positioned over windows or exterior doors. It is composed of canvas, polyester yarn, and polyester fabric over a metal like aluminum, iron or steel. Configuration of the awning structure is a planar frame. Metal awnings are used where the fabric awning is not a practical application.

Awnings are basically used to provide protection from the sun, rain and other inclement weather. A flat sheet of metal which is angled over an open window prevents the direct sunlight and rains from coming into doors and windows. The design of an awning helps the crosscurrent of air to flow through the home, thus allowing windows to remain open in summer and keep the home cool.

The usage of the awning was common during the first half of 19th century. Initially it was meant only for its functional applications, however later on awnings became decorative. Awnings were designed as an ornamental structure which adds beauty to the exterior look of home. As metal versions could be painted easily, they were developed to blend with the design of home and to add attraction to the exterior.

Later on many other versions of the awning have come into existence as people begin to apply creativity and focus on experiments with the look of their home. One of the popular designs of awning today is to use a metal frame coupled with canvas material. Thus homeowners can easily change the look of the exterior of the home by altering the canvas covers.

Various designs of awnings are being used today and it forms an integral part of the exterior designing of home. A wide range of metal and canvass models of the awning are available today. A well designed awning of a building exterior is aesthetically very pleasing.