Builders Supply Indianapolis
Different Materials for Awnings
Awnings are made of several types of materials. Some are tough and rigid whereas others are flexible and a bit less sturdy. At the same time, certain ones offer a great deal more versatility than others.
Aluminum
Aluminum awnings in Indianapolis are among the sturdier options on the market. They repel moisture and stand up well to high winds and extreme temperatures. On the other hand, they’re easily dented by large hail, falling limbs, and flying debris, so they may not be suitable for areas with frequent severe weather.
Steel
Steel awnings are also a popular choice. They don’t dent as easily as aluminum models, but they can sustain scratches over time. They need to be repainted or resealed often to prevent rust, making them a less-than-suitable choice for areas with a lot of moisture or coastal regions where salt spray could be an issue.
Fiberglass
Both steel and aluminum are relatively heavy materials, but fiberglass awnings offer comparable strength in a much lighter package. Fiberglass is sturdy and comes in a wide range of colors, so it doesn’t need to be repainted regularly as metal awnings do.
These types of awnings are available in both translucent and opaque variations to accommodate different lighting needs. Despite their ability to withstand the elements, they tend to become brittle over time, making them more vulnerable to damage as they age.
Fabric
These days, fabric awnings in Indianapolis are a common choice. They come in an endless array of colors, patterns, and styles. Though fabric certainly isn’t the most durable material available, awnings are generally made of canvas or coated with either acrylic or vinyl to make them stronger and more resistant to mold, mildew, and fading. Fabric is a great choice for both commercial and residential awnings.
Which Type of Awning Is Best?
Which type of awning is best for you depends on your unique needs and expectations. Several factors go into the decision-making process. Some of the most common are cost, longevity, and appearance.
Awnings are made of several types of materials. Some are tough and rigid whereas others are flexible and a bit less sturdy. At the same time, certain ones offer a great deal more versatility than others.
Aluminum
Aluminum awnings in Indianapolis are among the sturdier options on the market. They repel moisture and stand up well to high winds and extreme temperatures. On the other hand, they’re easily dented by large hail, falling limbs, and flying debris, so they may not be suitable for areas with frequent severe weather.
Steel
Steel awnings are also a popular choice. They don’t dent as easily as aluminum models, but they can sustain scratches over time. They need to be repainted or resealed often to prevent rust, making them a less-than-suitable choice for areas with a lot of moisture or coastal regions where salt spray could be an issue.
Fiberglass
Both steel and aluminum are relatively heavy materials, but fiberglass awnings offer comparable strength in a much lighter package. Fiberglass is sturdy and comes in a wide range of colors, so it doesn’t need to be repainted regularly as metal awnings do.
These types of awnings are available in both translucent and opaque variations to accommodate different lighting needs. Despite their ability to withstand the elements, they tend to become brittle over time, making them more vulnerable to damage as they age.
Fabric
These days, fabric awnings in Indianapolis are a common choice. They come in an endless array of colors, patterns, and styles. Though fabric certainly isn’t the most durable material available, awnings are generally made of canvas or coated with either acrylic or vinyl to make them stronger and more resistant to mold, mildew, and fading. Fabric is a great choice for both commercial and residential awnings.
Which Type of Awning Is Best?
Which type of awning is best for you depends on your unique needs and expectations. Several factors go into the decision-making process. Some of the most common are cost, longevity, and appearance.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Metal Awnings
Metal awnings can last 50 years or more with the right care and maintenance. They should be repainted regularly to help safeguard them against the elements and keep up their appearance. Most metal awnings are either fixed in place or feature hinges that allow them to fold down when needed.
Since stationary or folding metal awnings have fewer moving parts, they generally require less mechanical maintenance. Though they may require more of an upfront investment, you’ll probably spend less on repairs over time. Because of this, they’re often the better choice for businesses or properties with numerous awnings in place.
Looking at the Benefits and Disadvantages of Fabric and Retractable Awnings
Fabric awnings typically last around ten years, which is comparable to fiberglass. With proper cleaning and maintenance, though, they can certainly last much longer. Fabric is the least expensive material in terms of upfront costs. It doesn’t necessarily require a great deal of maintenance under ideal conditions. Still, heavy storms could lead to the need for extensive repairs or outright replacements.
Folding, stationary, and retractable awnings are available in the fabric category. If you’re looking for a retractable awning, several sizes and varieties are at your disposal. You can choose from manual or automatic versions. Some automatic retractable awnings work with a standard remote whereas others can be operated via smartphone.
Because retractable awnings are made of fabric, they’re more vulnerable to storm damage. That being said, you have the option of drawing them in during storms to help prevent damage. With smart retractable awnings, you can even roll them up when you’re away from your home or business. Retractable models are excellent choices for homes. They’re also good options for commercial awnings especially for restaurants with outdoor dining spaces or other businesses with outdoor entertainment or display areas.
Improve Your Property with Affordable Awnings
Whether you’re a contractor looking for bulk awnings or a DIY homeowner who simply wants to improve your outdoor living space, we have what you need. If you’re a business owner searching for custom awnings in Indianapolis, we have you covered as well.
Our team can also help you decide which residential or commercial awnings might best suit your needs. Take a look at our selection of awnings in Indianapolis to see what we have to offer. Don’t hesitate to call us or contact us using the form we’ve provided on our website to learn more or ask for help with the selection process.
Metal awnings can last 50 years or more with the right care and maintenance. They should be repainted regularly to help safeguard them against the elements and keep up their appearance. Most metal awnings are either fixed in place or feature hinges that allow them to fold down when needed.
Since stationary or folding metal awnings have fewer moving parts, they generally require less mechanical maintenance. Though they may require more of an upfront investment, you’ll probably spend less on repairs over time. Because of this, they’re often the better choice for businesses or properties with numerous awnings in place.
Looking at the Benefits and Disadvantages of Fabric and Retractable Awnings
Fabric awnings typically last around ten years, which is comparable to fiberglass. With proper cleaning and maintenance, though, they can certainly last much longer. Fabric is the least expensive material in terms of upfront costs. It doesn’t necessarily require a great deal of maintenance under ideal conditions. Still, heavy storms could lead to the need for extensive repairs or outright replacements.
Folding, stationary, and retractable awnings are available in the fabric category. If you’re looking for a retractable awning, several sizes and varieties are at your disposal. You can choose from manual or automatic versions. Some automatic retractable awnings work with a standard remote whereas others can be operated via smartphone.
Because retractable awnings are made of fabric, they’re more vulnerable to storm damage. That being said, you have the option of drawing them in during storms to help prevent damage. With smart retractable awnings, you can even roll them up when you’re away from your home or business. Retractable models are excellent choices for homes. They’re also good options for commercial awnings especially for restaurants with outdoor dining spaces or other businesses with outdoor entertainment or display areas.
Improve Your Property with Affordable Awnings
Whether you’re a contractor looking for bulk awnings or a DIY homeowner who simply wants to improve your outdoor living space, we have what you need. If you’re a business owner searching for custom awnings in Indianapolis, we have you covered as well.
Our team can also help you decide which residential or commercial awnings might best suit your needs. Take a look at our selection of awnings in Indianapolis to see what we have to offer. Don’t hesitate to call us or contact us using the form we’ve provided on our website to learn more or ask for help with the selection process.