Eclipse Shading Logo

A Guide to Awning Fabric Selection

For many years, people have used awnings to spruce up curb appeal and add value to their property. Through the years, the materials used in creating awnings have changed, and people have started developing new ways on how to install them. Awnings are made from a variety of materials, and property owners should always consider certain factors whenever they are buying a new awning. Depending on your geographical location and desired level for maintenance and care, certain awning fabric types might work better for you than others, and you should research your options to make an informed decision. If you are planning to buy an awning for your property, read on and find out the considerations that you should remember when purchasing this product.

Awning Fabric Selection

Awning Fabric Selection

Different Types of Awning Materials

Cotton Canvas

Cotton canvas awnings are a classic option for buyers. Once very popular, they have become scarcer in recent decades because of longer-lasting alternative fabrics. Awnings made from cotton are recommended by environmentalists because of its eco-friendly characteristics. However, one of the drawbacks of cotton canvas awnings is rot, mildew and fade caused by weather. They can be ripped by strong winds and large amounts of rainfall, but to protect the awning, users can retract the awning when potential bad weather occurs.

Acrylic Coated Polyester

Using an acrylic-coated polyester material is beneficial because they are stretch resistant. They are ideal for geographical areas with heavy rainfall, and most are weatherproof. Another benefit of using acrylic-coated polyester material is that the fabric does not leak but can fade easily.

100% Acrylic Fabric

This type is what is most commonly used in North American and Europe today. The acrylic solution (liquid) has the color added then fibers are created, then yarn is woven. Unlike the other fabrics, a fiber of acrylic is like a carrot, the same color all the way through.  This fabric will not rot, mildew or fade and is guaranteed for 10 years.

Vinyl Laminated Polyester

Vinyl laminated polyester awnings are immune to mildew and other elements that are found in humid areas which make them the ideal choice for areas with high humidity. It can also decrease the number of UV rays that are trying to penetrate inside the structure. The UV light is responsible for furniture fading and using vinyl laminated polyester will help protect the home’s interior.

Woven Polyester Material coated with PVC

Awnings that are made from woven polyester material and later coated with PVC are also ideal for areas with high humidity. Using this type of material will produce a durable awning which can withstand extreme natural forces. The woven polyester material that is coated with PVC is waterproof which increases the product lifespan, and this type of material can be easily cleaned.

Awning Fabric Selection

Awning Fabric Selection

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Awning Material

When people decide to purchase an awning, they must decide which type of material to use. To choose the material, people must consider several factors including the durability, fading, water repellency, stretch resistance and UV protection because these factors allow an awning to be used for decades. When making an awning purchase, you need to think about your geographical area, how and where the awning will be used and attached, and the level of maintenance and care because this will impact the decision of which awning you should purchase. Rather than focusing strictly on the price, you should take time to look at the specifics of each awning so you can make the best decision for your space, and the quality should always be the main consideration.

Cleanable Fabrics

Some awning fabrics are machine washable which will provide the owner with an option to quickly wash it, and other fabrics can be cleaned while still attached to the awning. Fabrics such as 100% acrylic can even withstand straight bleach if needed to clean the fabric. By keeping the fabric clean, you can extend the life of your awning.

UV and Sunlight Protection

Another important consideration is the amount of UV protection the awning provides. Scientists have proven research that the radiation from the sun can cause damage to multiple areas of the body, and the main result of constant exposure to UV is skin cancer. Awnings are used to protect an area or a property from the harsh sunlight as well as UV rays. Consider an awning that fully prevents UV rays from entering the body, as well as the interior of a property. These awnings will keep the residents protected from the dangerous UV rays, while at the same time, preserving the colors of furniture pieces and preventing it from staining.

Water Resistance

Water resistance is also an important factor when choosing the right awning because extreme moisture can result in damage to the awning. When a property is in a tropical environment, the humidity from the atmosphere would result in excessive moisture that can damage awnings that are not water-resistant. Buying a water-resistant awning will resolve this issue, and there are a lot of designs to choose from when buying this product.

Adjustability

The adjustability of the awning should be a key consideration. Imagine setting up an awning for your property, and the product you purchased it not adjustable. This would limit where you can place the awning and how it can be used. There are many adjustable awnings that you can purchase online, and you can also ask the in-store experts about their recommendation.

Durability

The durability of an awning depends on the materials used to create it. When choosing an awning, research the best materials that will last the longest. You can also consult the experts about this matter because they can recommend a brand that is known for manufacturing durable awnings. Based on the experiences of those who have purchased durable awnings in the past, the best material is coated polyesters because it can protect the awnings from different elements.

Weather

The weather is a major factor to consider when purchasing an awning. In places where the weather is constantly rainy, humid, or wet, the awnings that are required are those that offer protection against water and moisture. Awnings in these areas tend to wear easily because of this type of weather. For those who live in hot and dry weather, they can always choose any type of awning because moisture is absent. In places where the wind is strong, consider purchasing a durable awning that can survive strong blows of wind. If the awning is not strong enough, it can be ripped apart by the strong winds.

Geographical Climate

The geographical climate should also be considered when buying an awning. The world is divided into many geographical climates, and you need to find what type your location falls under. Cold areas and hot areas require different factors for the awnings. The same thing applies to humid and dry areas. If you are unsure about the perfect awning for your geographical location, try to ask the experts about their opinion, or look for reliable customer reviews that can help you decide.

Maintenance

Awnings require regular maintenance, and you should set aside a part of your seasonal or annual budget to clean the awnings. You can send it to a professional cleaning service or clean it yourself as prescribed by the manufacturer. You should also check for holes to prevent water from damaging the foundations where it is attached. When you notice holes on the awnings or when the seams start to decay, you should consider buying a new one. After purchasing an awning, you should research the proper care techniques of the specific structure and material used so you can ensure your awning will not be damaged in the process.

Warranty

The type of warranty is an important factor to consider when buying awnings. Depending on the manufacturer, the warranty can either entirely replace a damaged awning that has been purchased or provide repair work. Before making any purchases involving a warranty, you need to read the entire warranty, so you are knowledgeable on its terms and conditions. You should look at what the warranty covers (natural wear and tear, damage by weather, etc.), the type of work provided (replace of structure, repair costs, etc.), and how long the warranty lasts. It is important to keep a copy of the warranty and your purchase receipt in case your awning fabric ever needs to be replaced or repaired under warranty.

Conclusion

Awnings have been around for so many years, decorating our lively cities with colorful textiles that also serve as protection from the sun. If you want to install an awning on your property, you need to consider the materials used and several other factors that will give you a satisfactory result. You also need to research to give you an idea of how you should set up an awning for your home to make it cooler and more comfortable for everyone. By taking the time to find the exact awning for your area, you will have a much better end result.