Awnings are a great way to create an outdoor room on a porch or deck and are perfect for entertaining guests. They create shade and protection from the weather while adding a nice visual element to your home. Learn more about awning styles in the list below.

The 3 Top Awning Styles

1. Freestanding

Freestanding awnings aren’t permanently attached to your home or other structure. They’re great if you can’t use a deck or porch in the winter due to cold weather. The three main types of freestanding units are:

• Umbrella: Classic coverage for an outdoor dining table or perhaps a couple of loungers by the pool. Great for seasonal use.
• Canopy: This fabric covering comes in many shapes and sizes and is fastened to a stable structure via grommets and a tie-down. It can be used over decks and pools.
• Portable: This one can be quite large. The framework fastens into a stable base, which houses a retractable or removable awning. This is the best freestanding choice for year-round use.

Freestanding awnings can vary in price depending on whether they have aluminum or steel. Aluminum is light and affordable, while steel is more durable and stronger. Your choice should be based on how you plan to use it and the climate where you live. Fabrics should be UV resistant and waterproof.

2. Retractable

You can fix this style of awning to an exterior wall. The awning can be pulled out to cover an outdoor eating area or porch to provide shade or rain protection. If you prefer sun, the awning can be retracted. This style offers the most versatility and is good if you have a varied climate. The awnings may be made of fabric, vinyl, polyester, or aluminum. They will have a cassette that contains all or part of the retracted awning. Some may include a drop shade, which is shade cloth that hangs down from the edge of the awning to provide a “wall” for additional shade and privacy. Choose a hand-cranking model or one with a motor to pull the awning in and out. Some retractable awnings even come with built-in lighting.

3. Fixed

A fixed awning is mounted over the area that you want to shade. It is in place permanently and is good for sunny climates where you want year-round protection. Materials should be chosen for durability and UV resistance, as it will have constant exposure to the elements. 

Awnings can extend your entertaining area and are useful in all climates. Choose Carolina Awning Fabricators LLC in Seagrove, NC, for all your awning needs. They offer a wide variety of styles and materials, including hurricane protective awnings. They also craft customized covers and marquees for your unique needs. This family-owned and operated business has served central North Carolina for nearly 20 years. Call (336) 736-6258 for a free estimate or visit the website to learn more.