Many homeowners and business owners in Ottawa can benefit from getting an awning or canopy for their outdoor space.

Awnings and canopies do have some similarities. Both will give you protection from the sun and rain. Both are typically made from materials such as canvass or vinyl. And both are available in a wide assortment of fabric colours, shapes and sizes.

Because of all these similarities, some people may use these words canopy and awning interchangeably. Still, the fact is that there are some notable differences between an awning and a canopy.

If you are planning to invest in an awning or canopy, it is important to understand these differences so that you can choose the one that is right for you.

Where are they used?

Perhaps the main difference between an awning and a canopy is the location where it is installed. Awnings are typically attached to a home or business. They help prevent light from entering the building and can go a long way toward helping you save on heating or cooling costs as well as helping to prevent UV rays from damaging furnishings inside your home or business. Retractable awnings are a very popular choice for deck and patio areas where you might want shade for an outdoor seating area.

Canopies, on the other hand, are usually freestanding. They are used to protect from the sun over seating and gathering areas. These provide a great temporary option for home and business owners who wish to give a more comfortable space outside but who do not want to have an awning physically installed on their building. On the other hand, because canopy posts must be mounted in the ground, some people may find the posts intrusive or “in the way.”

How much area do they cover?

A typical retractable awning can reach up to about 20 feet in length and be extended about 15 feet. This makes it a good option for small and medium-sized gathering areas.

Canopies, on the other hand, can usually cover a much larger area, often reaching 21 feet long and 30 feet wide. This makes them ideal for covering larger yards and outdoor spaces for businesses.

How are they stored?

Awnings (including retractable awnings) are permanent fixtures that are attached to your home or business. They provide shade and protection from light rain and snow year-round.

Canopies are temporary structures that should be taken down when you are not using them. This can benefit if you want to move them around for portable shade, but it can be inconvenient if you are looking for a permanent structure for your outdoor space.

Contact Jans Awnings today.

Whether you decide to go with an awning or a canopy for your Ottawa home or business will ultimately depend on your needs and personal preferences. For all of your shade requirements, however, you can trust the professionals at Jans Awnings & Rollshutters. Call us today to speak with a member of our team.