Although awnings and canopies have similar uses and definitions that have caused them to be confused with each other over the years, in truth they have important differences. In light of this, the professionals at Aero Shade have come up with this blog to help explain the differences. Our hope is that by explaining them, you will be in a much better position to make a decision about which shade device is right for your home or business.

Understanding the Differences

Before we give suggestions on which to use, let’s first clarify the difference between an awning and canopy. Awnings are coverings that are attached to the exterior portion (wall) of a house or building. You normally see them placed above windows and doors, or extended to cover larger areas with the use of columns. On the other hand, a canopy makes use of numerous posts to support its structure, and can stand on its own like a typical tent.

When choosing which to use for your home or business, make sure to look for five factors: Protection, Aesthetics, Scope and Size, Installation, and Cost.

Protection

Awnings and canopies both give protection from the sun’s UV rays, pouring rain, and other weather conditions. And both are mostly made from canvas, vinyl or mesh that’s stretched tightly across a metal. The only thing you should keep in mind is the quality of the fabric and metal frame you’re using.

Fabrics come in all sizes and shapes, but what sets them apart is how well they can protect you. Since awnings and canopies almost use similar fabrics, just choose those that have better features. For instance, choosing materials with sun block is good if waterproof fabrics are not your concern.

Some of these options include block mesh with varying levels of sun block capability. Typical levels fall between 50% – 90%, so if you want privacy, choose the 90% block material. You can choose the 50% variety if it’s windy all the time, since there’s better circulation but enough shade to to maintain your privacy.

What if you require waterproof fabrics? We recommend the 18 oz solid vinyl material. And when you’re using awnings, make sure to add enough slope so the rain does not accumulate at the center. Canopies have ample slopes, so this won’t be a problem.

Frames can also make a difference. One thing good about retractable canopies, is that they can usually hold themselves better during strong winds. The pergola frame type, in particular, remains unaffected to 80mph wind gusts even when extended. On the other hand, awnings must be retracted as soon as the wind gets strong, or else they’ll get damaged.

Aesthetics

When placed in homes, the supporting posts of retractable canopies may look intrusive and even obstructive. Remember that many canopies are often mounted on the ground, which can make them difficult to remove once they’re stuck inside. If that’s the case, make sure to create a layout plan of your outside home and include the exact location to place your canopy. That way, you’re sure that the one you choose blends with the existing design and theme of your surroundings.

Retractable awnings, on the other hand, don’t look as intrusive as canopies, since they’re mounted on walls, windows, or doors. There are even some with diagonal support arms that hide their lateral arms, making them blend much better with the wall.

Scope and Size

Usually, awnings can usually reach up to 20 ft. in length, but can only be extended about 15 feet. This means that only small- or medium-sized decks can be covered with awnings. The exception is the slide-wire cable awning, which hangs from wires that stretch out over a deck or patio. These awnings are also manually retractable or motorized.

Canopies, on the other hand, have structures that can reach 21 ft. long and 30 feet wide, so it can really cover any deck size, yard, patio, or even a small field for that matter. This makes them ideal to use use when holding parties or other social events. Pop-up canopies, also known as pit tents in motorsport shows, have become increasingly popular in sporting events and trade shows. These types showcase businesses and their products to the public.

Installation

Retractable awnings are not an ideal project for a DIY project beginner; however, a knowledge of basic carpentry and a pair (or more) of hands to help lift the heavy awnings can make this a doable project. You have to mount the brackets that will frame the entire awning, but you must also be careful to add clearance before installing them. Generally, you need a minimum of 6 inches of clear space to mount an awning.

Retractable canopies are usually pre-cut and predrilled. However, they may be too complicated for beginners, since they need to make accurate measurements before they order the parts. There are also cases where wooden structures that support the entire mount may not be available, so you might have to create one from scratch. And like awnings, the posts may be too heavy to carry by one person, so you might need an assistant to help you to share the heavy lifting.

What about disassembly? Awnings are permanently mounted on walls, making them difficult to take apart. Canopies, while not always easy, can be disassembled and tucked away in a garage or storeroom when not in use.

Cost

Awnings cost around $1,500 – $5,000, while canopies range from $130 – $850. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, since the cost is directly related to their fabric’s width and reach. Generally, the wider and longer it is, the more expensive it becomes.

You should also factor in features. For example, a good manual awning costs around $1,300, while the motorized version can cost around $1,600. If you want to add sun, rain, or wind sensors to retractable awnings, then expect the price to increase by as much as $500. A standard 10×20 feet caravan canopy costs an estimated $100, a Pop-Up canopy costs $300, and a 20×30 White Pole Canopy used for wedding events costs around $850.

You can easily see that you’ll save more by using canopies. However, keep in mind that some houses might not have the size (or even the design) to properly fit in a canopy, so awnings are still the best choice in the end.

Get the Best Awnings at Aero Shade

Still confused? Aero Shade has been installing awnings to thousands of L.A. homes for more than 20 years now. Take advantage of our free consultation, and we’ll help you choose from custom-made, stationary, manual, motorized, and slide-wire cable awnings for your home. We guarantee only the best service, and our expert staff will gladly assist you in creating a beautiful and relaxing space that’s worth coming home to.