Everything You Should Know About Awning Valences

Denise O'Leary • February 6, 2023
0 minute read
awning over an outdoor patio

When it comes to choosing a shade solution for your home or business in Arizona, there are a number of decisions you will need to consider. From awnings to canopies, finding the perfect structure to match the aesthetic of your building while meeting your overall shade goals is within reach.


At Arizona Awnings, we offer several custom-built shade solutions that are made to fit any sizing or building dimensions, including awnings with valences, retractable awnings, canopies and more. Awnings tend to be a popular option for homeowners and businesses in the Valley because they can be customized to complement any building and their features can be completely customized.


For example, if you are looking to add a bit of flair and personality to your curb appeal, you can design an awning with a valence. Valences soften the look of an awning and accentuate the architectural style of any home or business. They are a simple way to take your awning to the next level — providing you with a made-to-order, upscale shade solution.


What Is a Valence and Do You Need One?


Valences are not their own kind of shade solution but a feature that can be added to an awning. A valence is a portion of the awning’s fabric that is either “fixed,” rigid” or “loose” meaning that it hangs over the front edge or perimeter of the awning. Valences of all types are used to complete the overall look and style of the awning while providing extra shade.


Valances are not required, and you have the option of purchasing an awning without a valance. It is merely a personal preference if additional style and shade benefits are important to you.


What Are the Different Valence Styles Available?


There are a number of unique styles and patterns to choose from when looking to add a valence to your residential or commercial awning. A valence should elevate the look and feel of the awning(s) you picture for your home or business. There is no right or wrong choice when considering what valence style to go with — it all depends on what will best match your vision.


At Arizona Awnings, we are pleased to offer a wide variety of valence styles including:


  • English
  • French
  • Greek
  • Riviera
  • Rolling hills
  • Roman
  • Southwestern
  • Spanish
  • Straight-hemmed edge
  • Swiss


How Are Valences Made?


Once you decide on the color and style of your valence, the Arizona Awnings team will construct your awning and all of its features (including the valence). If you go with a style like the “Greek” or “Southwestern” valences, the fabric is scalloped or cut in order to create the desired design.


Once the edge is cut, it is finished with an acrylic braid binding that is fastened along the edge(s) of the valence.


Why Do Awning Valences Need Braid Bindings?


When you choose a “loose” or hanging valence of any style, the edge(s) must be lined with a sturdy binding material otherwise known as an acrylic awning braid. Braid bindings are a must-have decorative feature for any valence because they secure the edge of the fabric and prevent fraying and deterioration that is often caused by wind, rain and sun exposure.


Braid bindings come in a collection of colors that can either match or complement your residential or commercial awning valence.


Valley Homeowners and Businesses Trust Arizona Awnings for Their Shade Solutions


If you are considering investing in a retractable or fixed awning for your backyard or patio, Arizona Awnings is your one-stop destination for all your shade needs in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Our experienced team installs a variety of commercial and residential awnings and shade structures across the Valley.


We offer a variety of valence styles to incorporate into your awning to enhance your building’s curb appeal — at no additional cost.

Give us a call today at 602-252-3430 for a free on-site consultation and personalized estimate.

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