Aluminum awnings come in a variety of styles and colours, and they offer sturdy protection from rain, snow, and sunlight. Because they become permanent fixtures above windows, doorways, porches, and passageways, homeowners and business owners need to know that they will hold up well over time. With that in mind, let’s have a look at what makes aluminum awnings the durable items that they are.

In comparison to fabric awnings

When comparing aluminum awnings to their fabric counterparts, it’s clear which option is the most durable. Unlike fabric, aluminum can survive exposure to severe weather conditions like gusting winds, intense sunlight, heavy rainfall, and even sizable snowstorms. While a fabric awning may last for approximately a decade, aluminum awnings can sometimes endure for over 40 years before a replacement will be necessary. During that extended time frame, aluminum awnings will resist warping, bowing, and stretching – all concerns that can shorten the lifespan of fabric awnings.

Fabrication and installation

The durability of aluminum awnings comes from their initial fabrication, as well as how they are installed on a building’s façade. The strength of aluminum means that it can stand up to powerful winds without damage, and it will not warp after exposure to sunlight or precipitation.

How the awnings are installed will also bolster their durability. To counter the possibility of snow accumulating and weighing down the awning, it can be installed with a substantial slope. A customized slope can also direct rainfall a safe distance away from the building, which can help prevent foundation problems. Depending on the size of the slope and the awning itself, support beams can be added to help stabilize the aluminum.

As strong and durable as aluminum is, it is also a relatively light material. That makes aluminum awnings affordable and easy to install or remove as necessary.

Maintenance for aluminum awnings

The durability of aluminum awnings makes them easy to take care of. They’re unlikely to need patch up or repair jobs as fabric awnings may require from time to time, especially following a severe weather event. Rinsing an aluminum awning with a hose can keep dirt and debris from building up, and some preventative maintenance can be done by trimming any trees which may come into contact with the awning.

Added benefits

In addition to withstanding an onslaught of rain, snow, and sleet, aluminum awnings can also provide protection against the sun’s harsh rays. Aluminum awnings can be constructed with an insulated layer that absorbs the heat from direct sunlight. As a result, the space that the awning protects will stay a few degrees cooler than its surrounding area. Having that shade can help lower energy costs in the warmer months by letting you run your air conditioner at a less powerful setting.

If you’re looking for an affordable but still highly durable awning that will last for years without a great deal of maintenance, an aluminum awning may be the perfect fit for your home. Contact us to find out about the aluminum awning options available to suit your style and your home’s needs.