Canopies Vs Awnings - Which One Should You Buy

Canopies and awnings are a great addition to your business or outdoor home area.

16:36 13 May 2021

They have many similarities, especially when it comes to the immense benefits they provide, such as providing protection from sunlight and other elements. However, that does not mean they are the same.

 

Many business owners and homeowners use both of these terms interchangeably, but in reality, there are many significant differences between the two. These differences become even more prominent and important when you have to decide on which one to buy to fulfill the requirements of your business or family. Here are some of the differences between canopies and awnings.

 

1. Outlook

 

The main difference between awnings and canopies is their design. An awning is installed over a window or a glass door and is attached to the wall. Awnings are made out of different types of material and may be retractable or non-retractable. On the other hand, a canopy is not attached to the building. It is freestanding and has solid posts that support it. A canopy is movable and can be disassembled because it is not fixed or attached to any building.

 

2. Transport and storage

 

An awning, once installed, is fixed and cannot be moved. It cannot be disassembled, transported, and stored. An awning is a long-term investment and is durable. It is left in its place till there is a need to have it replaced or if it becomes too worn out and destroyed. However, a canopy provides the benefit of being transportable.

 

A canopy is only set into place for a small time period, after which it is disassembled and stored. Setting up a canopy takes from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on its size. Once the event is over and the canopy is no longer required, it can be folded, disassembled, and stored easily in the store or basement.

 

3. Interior influence

 

Another difference between awnings and canopies is their ability to affect the temperature of your home or building. Awnings can be installed on the windows, door, deck, and porch, which reduce the amount of heat coming from sunlight. They also reduce the amount of damage caused by the sun.

 

If you live in a place that has a hot climate, such as Arizona, India, Ecuador, or Toledo, then you must invest in getting an awning for your home and business. Awnings can also help you save a lot of energy and money by keeping your building or house naturally cool. There are many types of awnings available at awnings Toledo Ohio.

 

On the other hand, canopies only provide shade to people sitting directly under them. It would be a great idea to take your canopy along on a trip to the beach or park. You can also set it up in your backyard or patio and enjoy some fresh outdoor air in the shade.

 

4. Location

 

The most major difference between a canopy and an awning is how they are used and where they are installed. Awnings are installed over windows, doors, and patios to prevent sunlight from entering the house or building. It also prevents sunlight from damaging the furniture, artwork, and flooring. Awnings can be retractable or permanent. Retractable awning is more in demand and is used very commonly to cover patios or other outdoor seating areas.

 

Canopies are used to provide shade over a limited seating area. Canopies are generally not used at businesses and homes. Instead, they are a temporary installment at events to block the sun and have a nice outdoor experience.

 

5. Protection

 

Awnings and canopies are both made out of fabric, vinyl, mesh, or canvas that is stretched across a metal frame. Both of them provide protection against sunlight, rain, and other weather elements. You should make sure that the awning or canopy you buy is made out of high-quality material.

 

Awnings are made out of different fabrics, and you have to select the best one according to your needs and requirements. The quality and type of material used will help to determine how well it can protect you. For example, if you want to install an awning for privacy, you should go with the 90% block mesh material.

 

However, if it's usually windy where you live, then it is recommended that you buy the 50% block mesh variety so that there is better wind circulation. On the other hand, if you live in an area where it's rainy, then it is recommended that you get the 18 oz solid vinyl material. Also, you should make sure that the awning is installed such that it has a slight slope for the water to run off so that the water does not accumulate in the center.

 

6. Durability

 

Canopies and awnings are both very durable. They are made out of strong materials and fabric that makes them last longer. An awning is a long-term investment that, once installed in place, provides protection against the elements at all times whereas a canopy provides protection only when it is brought out for use.

 

7. Cost

 

Another major difference between awnings and canopies is their cost. Awnings cost around $1000-$5500 whereas canopies are way cheaper and cost around $140-$900. These are the average values and will differ according to the type of material you choose, size, and location.

 

The wider your awning is, the more expensive it will be. Also, if you add accessories, it will increase the overall cost. You can see that canopies are comparatively cheaper and can help you save money. However, you should remember that not all homes have the space to fit in a canopy, so awnings are the best choice. Awnings are a long-term investment that will provide you with multiple benefits over a period of many years.

 

8. Size

 

An awning has a limited size. Its attachment to the building sets a limit to how big an awning can be. An awning can only extend a small distance from the building. However, the area that a canopy covers is only limited by the space available and not the structure of the canopy itself.

 

If you have always wanted to hold an outdoor evening event or enjoy a barbecue, then a canopy is just what you need. A canopy can extend across a large area and cover an area large enough to fit 30 people. This makes it the perfect choice for when you have to host an outdoor event with the sun shining strong.

 

In a nutshell

 

Most business owners and house owners confuse the terms canopies and awnings and use them interchangeably. But that is not the case. As seen above, there are many differences between the two. If you want a permanent installment outside your house or business site to provide shade and protection from sunlight and other elements, then an awning is the best option.