Guide to Awnings and Canopies News and Trends

How to keep your business up-to-date with awnings and canopies

By Lesley Graybeal

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get motorized retractable deck awnings for shelter and convenience

Retractable shades are a popular choice for homeowners who want to expand their living space outdoors, but motorized retractable awnings are also useful for small restaurants or businesses that have outdoor space. Adding deck awnings expands the usable space of your building, and motorized retractable awnings are easy to open, adjust and close.

I recommend: Comfort House sells the Sunsetter motorized retractable awning for $1400 to $2100, depending on the size. ScreenHouses Unlimited sells the Sunbrella motorized retractable awning, a similar model that, at $1400 to $1600 base price, is slightly more expensive because of its remote motor operation.

Install hood and Venetian style awnings to reap the most energy benefits

If you're installing window canopies and awnings to conserve energy, be aware that certain types of awnings are more energy efficient than others. While any awning on east- and west-facing windows will help block some sunlight, adjustable custom awnings are best for blocking shifting light.

I recommend: Glenlo Awning and Window Company sells hood awnings, which are good for improving energy efficiency because they block the sides of the window as well as the front surface. Energy Star also recommends using Venetian awnings like those sold by Fabritech Incorporated, and adjusting these simple awning designs from side to side to block the most light during different seasons.

Showcase your style with glass or plexiglass custom awnings

Glass and other clear coverings are a big hit in the latest awnings and canopies news and trends. While glass coverings may not block as much sunlight as opaque awnings, you can purchase clear architectural coverings that block UV rays, and all glass and plexiglass coverings protect against weather.

I recommend: Solar View Canopy features a centrally supported clear covering canopy. You can view the structural design and get a quote online. ISG, Innovative Structural Glass, also offers trendy new glass panel canopy designs custom made for your business.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're buying a retractable shade, make sure the model you order is motorized. Not all retractable deck awnings are motorized, and some providers offer a motor as an optional add-on for retractable awnings. If you do get a motorized model, double-check the warranty coverage for the motor in addition to the awning itself, since the two may have different coverage.

Guide to Awnings and Canopies

Outdoor awnings and custom canopies add pizzazz, protection and many other benefits

By Selena Chavis, Owner, SC Communications, LLC

1. Advice on choosing the best custom canopies and outdoor awnings for low maintenance and weathering the elements.
2. Information on choosing window and door awnings that provide the best energy efficiencies.
3. Tips on selecting outdoor canopies or window awnings that provide the best style in tandem with functionality.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose outdoor awnings that will weather climate conditions

Outdoor fabrics used for canvas awnings and canopies are often available in a wide variety of styles and colors. However, they are not as strong as aluminum awnings, metal awnings or fiberglass awnings. Consider the frequency of use, prevailing weather and the location of outdoor awnings and custom canopies in relation to a building when choosing materials.Both canvas awnings and metal awnings are designed to withstand moderately high winds and most inclement weather. Consult with manufacturers about what to do during a hurricane or other high-wind storm. For areas that see extreme temperature, climate and storm conditions, aluminum awnings, metal awnings or fiberglass door canopies offer a sturdy, low-maintenance cover. Many manufacturers also apply UV protective coatings to protect against harmful rays.

I recommend: Check out companies like SunSetter - the largest manufacturer of retractable awnings in America - and King Canopy, which have established histories as leading manufacturers of outdoor awnings and custom canopies. Reputable brands can also be found at companies like Lowes and Home Depot.

Size matters with door awnings and window awnings

The larger the door awnings or window awnings, the more shelter they will provide from the elements. However, larger products tend to require more upfront costs and maintenance. Smaller door awnings and window awnings tend to be more decorative. Considerations should also be made for the different types of awnings available on the market. Fixed outdoor awnings are permanently attached to a building; retractable awnings come in two different models: manual or motorized.

I recommend: Weigh the need for size against aesthetics and cost. Typically, door awnings and window awnings can project approximately three to four meters from a wall without needing support elements. Anything wider will most likely require a secondary support. Larger retractable awnings also typically require a motorized system - increasing the price of installation and maintenance. Familiarize yourself with basics of fixed and retractable awnings and consult with signage consultants before making a choice.

Choose energy efficient custom canopies

Energy efficiencies can be improved based on the type of outdoor awning or door canopy chosen as well as the material. The size of the window awning and its 'drop'-the amount of window it covers-will also play a role.

I recommend: Retractable awnings allow you to block the sun in the summer and allow it to warm a building in the winter. Larger outdoor awnings provide more coverage from the sun. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that window awnings on east- and west-facing windows have a 65 percent to 75 percent drop for maximum efficiency. Because of the higher angle of the sun, south-facing window awnings only need 45 percent to 60 percent coverage. For canvas awnings and other fabric awnings, the department also recommends an opaque, tightly woven material that is light in color. More practical information can also be found from the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI).

Choose door canopies and window awnings that fit your business image

Aluminum awnings, metal awnings and metal canopies offer a durable, low maintenance solution and can be used to create a retro style. Canvas awnings, along with outdoor awnings made from other fabrics, require more care but are available in a variety of colors and shapes for creating distinctive looks that fit with your overall business image. The use of side panels can also create more custom, finished looks.

I recommend: Many companies specialize in a variety of durable canvas awnings and canopies in addition to other fabrics. Consult with companies that offer innovative designs and materials such as Beauty-Mark Awnings.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Canvas awnings and custom canopies may cost less up front but will require more maintenance and upkeep down the road.
• •  When pricing window awnings and door canopies, consider how much they can lower your energy costs.
• •  Consider that you want higher-priced custom canopies and window awnings to last. Choose classic styles that will not be too trendy and materials that will weather well in your climate.

Guide to Pricing and Costs of Awnings and Canopies

How to calculate costs of custom awnings and canopies for your business

By Lesley Graybeal

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Opt for do-it-yourself awnings to save money

Choosing do-it-yourself canopies and awnings, either made of canvas or metal, lets you get the lowest rates on your building improvements. You can also order do-it-yourself canopies and awnings to fit many different window, door and patio sizes.

I recommend: Easy Awn prices canvas do-it-yourself awnings at $120 to $180 for standard rectangular shapes, and at $190 to $250 for dome shapes. Try-Tech metal do-it-yourself awnings cost $80 to $400, depending on the window size. Their patio coverings cost about $10 per square foot.

Get more options for your buck using retractable window and deck awnings

Whether you want to using window awnings only seasonally, or have a patio that needs deck awnings only during some times of day, retractable awnings may be your best, and most cost effective, option. Retractable awnings can get very expensive, particularly the larger sizes, but offer significant energy benefits and can expand your restaurant or business space to include a larger and more accommodating outdoor area.

I recommend: PYC Awnings sells the Sunflexx retractable awning in sizes ranging from six to 14 feet wide, for $2000 to $4500. Awning Time.com's single window awning prices range from under $400, for the smallest retractable option (two by three feet), to $11,500 for the largest model (18 by 40 feet).

Factor in custom graphics when calculating pricing and costs of awnings and canopies

Custom logos and graphics are a great feature of awnings and canopies. Whether you want to add a full color logo or picture or just your establishment's name or address, awnings or canopies with custom graphics can make your business stand out. Pricing on custom graphics varies depending on the colors you use, and can be calculated when you order your awning or canopy.

I recommend: Get custom printing on canopy tents in one color, two colors or full color from CustomCanopy. Their canopies are priced from $750 to $1800, depending on number of peaks in the design and colors in the printing. Elite Deals offers quotes on custom graphics added to any awning. Most styles are priced from $300 to $800 plus printing.

Save money by renting awnings and canopies

If you'll be using a canopy for a special outdoor event, consider renting rather than buying and pay less. When pricing rental awnings and canopies, remember to include delivery and assembly, any additions you want such as tent walls or floors and the cost for supplying electricity to the tent, if necessary.

I recommend: Visit Champion Canopies & Tarps, which rents outdoor event tents for $400 to $1500, depending on size, plus shipping ($130 to $300, depending on your state). Canopy Pro's Party Rentals also offers canopy tents and optional walls, flooring, seating and lighting. Their canopies are priced from $100 to $3000, depending on the size, while delivery and set up costs range from $25 to $1200.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Factor in the cost for accessories when calculating the pricing of awnings. Motors for retractable awnings are usually sold separately, and adequate hardware for installing awnings may or may not be included in your order.
• •  Both metal and canvas awnings require maintenance and care. Factor regular cleaning and repair into the cost of your awnings when considering final prices.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Woven acrylic fabric awning

An awning that is made from woven acrylic fabric is usually more expensive than other types of awnings, primarily because of an extensive manufacturing process. The dyed fibers are twisted into threads, woven into a pattern and treated to make them fade-resistant and water-repellent. However, woven acrylic fabric awnings are not waterproof.

I recommend: SunSetter Products explains many of the pros and cons of woven acrylic fabric awnings.

Laminated fabric awning

A traditional laminated fabric awning is made from commercial- grade vinyl. The fabric is strong, easy to clean and fire resistant. It is also waterproof.

I recommend: Carroll Awning is a great resource for more information about laminated fabric awnings.

Retractable awning

A retractable awning extends outward to provide shade on sunny days. But it must be retracted toward the building so it is protected during rain and stormy weather. It has no poles, and it is often motorized.

I recommend: The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association has a great question-and-answer section about retractable awnings.

Awning valance

The awning valance is the part of an awning that hangs down from the front. It typically measures about 8 inches, and most manufacturers will give you several pattern choices for your valance. Keep in mind that the valance is always visible, even when the awning is retracted. This makes it a great place for printed signage.

I recommend: Information from Ohio Awning & Manufacturing explains the benefits of awning valances.

Dome awning

As you might expect, a dome awning is shaped like half a dome. It has several advantages over other types of awnings. For example, its rounded shape makes it difficult for water to pool on the awning and cause damage. Additionally, because of its small, rounded size, a dome awning is usually a less-expensive option.

I recommend: Check out EasyAwn for more information about dome awnings, including pictures and diagrams.

Shade sail canopy

A unique type of canopy is a shade sail, which is a large piece of fabric that is stretched out to create a shady area over a patio or lawn. These are ideal for restaurants with outdoor seating areas and companies that help plan outdoor parties and events.

I recommend: For more information about shade sail canopies, and examples, check out HutShop.com.