Pros and Cons of Different Metals Used for Awning Structures

Awnings can be a useful feature of your Phoenix home, providing shelter from the relentless sun and rain while adding a touch of style and character to its exterior. Awnings come in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes, and can be custom designed to fit the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of each property owner.

While people generally have specific reasons for wanting to install awnings, they may struggle when choosing between different materials like metal, aluminum or canvas. Each type of awning material has its pros and cons and learning about them can help you make the best choice.

Metal Awnings Pros and Cons

Metal awnings are typically made of copper or steel, and offer a sleek, modern appearance that can complement a wide range of architectural styles.



Pros:

Metal awnings are typically made from sturdy materials, which makes them resistant to harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds (both of which are prevalent during Arizona’s monsoon season).

Additionally, metal awnings don’t rot, warp or fade. This means that metal awnings can last for many years with minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice for homeowners and business owners alike.

Metal awnings are relatively low maintenance compared to other materials. They don't require regular painting or staining and can be easily cleaned with a mild soap and water solution.

Cons:

While there are some advantages to metal awnings, there are also some significant disadvantages that often dissuade homeowners from choosing metal over more traditional fabric shade options or retractable awnings.

Metal awnings can trap heat underneath them, which can make the area they cover uncomfortably hot. This factor alone can make these awnings counterproductive from a comfort and energy-saving perspective. This can be especially problematic during the hot Phoenix summer when temperatures skyrocket into the triple digits. Having metal awnings in your backyard may be a bad idea if you want to use the space for outdoor entertaining or relaxation.

Metal awnings typically come in a limited range of designs and styles, which can make it difficult to find one that matches the aesthetic of your home or business. This can be especially frustrating if you have a unique architectural style or color scheme.

While they are durable, metal awnings are vulnerable to hail and can be dented. Some are also susceptible to rusting or corrosion.

Aluminum Awnings Pros and Cons

You may be baffled as to why aluminum awnings are considered separate from metal awnings. Even though aluminum is a metal, its unique qualities set it apart from other types of metals used for structures like awnings.

Pros:

One of the main advantages of aluminum awnings is their affordability--they’re an affordable option compared to other materials like wood and fabric. They’re also available in different sizes and styles, making them a popular budget awning option.

Cons:

Aluminum awnings are generally not as durable as other types of metal awnings. They can produce a loud noise when it rains, which can be disruptive and annoying, especially if you’re trying to get a good night’s sleep after a busy day.

Lastly, unlike fabric awnings, aluminum awnings aren’t retractable, can be difficult to customize and changes may require professional installation.

They have most of the downsides of other metal awnings while also looking cheap and flimsy. Most homeowners who are investing in awnings do so for both aesthetic and energy saving reasons. The heat absorption and downward reflection of all types of metal, including aluminum, makes these awnings somewhat self-defeating.

From a cost savings standpoint, the price difference between aluminum and traditional high-quality fabric awnings is small enough that it often makes sense to invest a little more in something nice that actually excels at its intended function.

Your Premier Awning Installation Professionals in Phoenix

Arizona Awnings is the Valley’s top awning retailer and installer. Whether you’re thinking about a fixed awning or a retractable fabric awning, our experts are here to help you choose the best product for your home or business.

To learn more about customized awnings and other outdoor solutions or to receive a free quote, call 602-252-3430 today.