Angie's LIST Guide to
Awnings

At one time, all awnings were made of cotton canvas fabric. While canvas is an environmentally friendly option, it does not stand up to the elements as well as synthetic fabric. Canvas rots in humid conditions and is susceptible to damage from sunlight. It also requires sealing with waterproofing products on a regular basis. Other drawbacks include fading over time and the tendency of dirt to gather in small gaps in the fabric.

A major problem associated with canvas is its susceptibility to fungus and mold when damp. Treating with a sealant does not always deter the growth of microorganisms. Canvas awnings are generally less expensive than awnings made of other materials, but due to their drawbacks have largely given way to awnings made of synthetic fabrics.

Although many awnings are as stationary as a porch roof, some are designed to retract as needed -- giving homeowners the option of having direct sunlight or not depending on the situation.  The ability to retract the awning also protects it from damage during periods of high winds or heavy snowfall.

Some retractable awnings are manually operated with a hand crank.  Motorized versions open and close with the push of a button like the top of a convertible auto.  The motor, generally located in the awning’s roller bar, is operated from a wall-mounted switch or wireless remote control. Some of these awnings are equipped with wind sensors and provide automatic retraction under windy conditions.