Awning Styles A-Z

January 1, 2019

If you’ve never installed awnings on your home or business before, you might not realize that you have a lot of options when it comes to what style you choose. In addition, just about every awning or canopy can be customized for your specific needs.

In this blog post we will describe the most popular awning styles as well as things you will want to consider before making your final decision.

Awning vs. Canopy

Before we get started, it’s important to note that awnings and canopies are technically not the same and therefore have some style variations. Generally speaking a canopy has support poles (or stanchions) that connect it to the ground (on the other end it is connected to the exterior of a building). A free-standing canopy is not attached to a building at all.

While awnings and canopies offer many of the same benefits and have a similar appearance, an awning can remain permanently affixed to a building even during the winter season. Canopies, on the other hand, are typically stored in the off-season or when not needed. At the New Dorchester Awning Company we specialize in all types of fabric structures, including canopies, awnings, solar shades, retractable roofs, umbrellas, and more.

Popular Awning Styles A-Z

While we will showcase seven common awning styles below, the truth is that you have an almost unlimited number of design options. First, you will need to choose the shape of your awning or canopy and decide whether or not you want it to have side (or end) panels. Then you will need to decide on a valance style. The valance is the portion of the awning that hangs down and you can choose whether you would like it to be loose, fixed, or whether you prefer none at all. You also have options when it comes to the awning color, fabric, and graphics.

Concave

A concave awning has a front panel that curves inward and can typically be found over windows or doors.

Dome

This style has a rounded look, like a half-sphere, and is great for shading from sun and rain.

Elongated Dome

An elongated dome also has a rounded shape and is often used on longer windows or entryways, or to wrap around corners.

Fixed Frame

A fixed-frame awning is a traditional style and has many uses, including over windows, doors, patios, and decks.

Lateral/Arm Retractable

As we like to say, “Shade when you want it and sun when you don’t.” A retractable awning rolls back either with the push or a button or turn of a crank, depending on the style you choose. One of the most popular awning styles, the retractable option is perfect for folks who want some flexibility in their patio/deck design.

Rounded Entrance Canopy

Similar to the dome style, this type of canopy entrance extends further than a typical awning. It’s a good choice for hotels or restaurants that want to provide their guests with some coverage on a long walk to the front doors.

Quarter Round/Convex

This awning has a curved front panel with flat sides and is commonly seen over small windows and entryways.

How to Find the Perfect Awning for Your Home or Business

With so many options available, how do you decide on the right awning for your home or business?

Of course you want an awning or canopy that solves any weather or sun issues you might be dealing with, but you also want a fixture that embodies the style you’re hoping to achieve: sleek and professional, bright and inviting, or simple and functional, the possibilities are nearly endless.

At The New Dorchester Awning Company it is our mission to help you create the ideal awning or canopy that not only fits your needs but has the look you’ve envisioned. During our thorough design process we’ll take the time to understand your goals and make any necessary adjustments along the way.

Contact us today to learn more about our high-quality, custom awning solutions and find the perfect style for your home or business.