Things to Consider Before Installing a Commercial Awning

You want your business to stand out, and a commercial awning is one easy way to differentiate it from other surrounding businesses.

Arizona businesses can also lower their utility costs by adding a permanent or retractable awning to shield their building and, most importantly, their customers from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Commercial awnings are a big investment and it’s important to consider all your options so you can be sure to pick the right one.

Retractable Awnings Versus Fixed Awnings

Commercial awnings are designed to create a welcoming ambiance for customers and serve as a natural extension of your building’s interior. When you decide which awning is right for you, think about the area you need to cover. Both retractable and fixed awnings are designed to extend out from the building, providing ample shade and protection from bad weather.

Retractable awnings are constructed to extend out as far as you’d like, giving you control over the amount of shade and protection you need at any given time. While retractable awnings are more commonly associated with backyard patios, there may be scenarios where a retractable awning can be used in a commercial setting (like a restaurant’s outdoor seating area).

Retractable awnings can be operated via a motor or manual crank and are designed to be versatile and highly durable. When the retractable awning is not in use, it can be stored away to protect it from the elements.

Fixed awnings are more “permanent” and cannot be moved or retracted. They are constructed using metal panels, lattices or slats and a fabric cover measured to fit the exact space. In addition to a variety of color, fabric and branding options, we also offer several different valence styles to give it a customized, unique trim that fits your business.

Does an Awning’s Style and Size Matter?

At Arizona Awnings, your commercial awning is designed and built especially for your business. This means you have complete control over the style and size of the awning before it is installed. An effective awning shouldn't appear out of place. It should complement and enhance your exterior and be an accurate reflection of your brand. Think about if want your commercial awning to flow with the building or if you’d rather it be the focal point of the entryway.

This is where you decide on things like colors, fonts and logos. You may see some businesses hang commercial signage on their awnings. This may be a quick, easy fix to advertise but it doesn’t have the same professional appearance as adding your logo or business name onto the awning fabric itself.

The next most important choice is the size of your commercial awning. Measure the space you are planning to cover (i.e., window, doorway, patio, etc.) so you know how big the awning should be. A general rule of thumb is that it’s better for a canopy or awning to be slightly bigger than needed rather than too small.

What Awning Material is the Most Durable in Arizona?

In areas like Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, the weather can be brutal during the summer months. If you want an awning that lasts, you will want to choose a durable material that can stand up to the sun. The color of the material has almost as much to do with its durability as the type of material. A lighter color is unable to absorb as much heat as a darker colored awning.

Browse our collection of vibrant and UV resistant fabrics that are built to withstand harsh, direct sunlight.

Get Creative with Additional Awning Features and Accessories

Once your commercial awning is installed, you can leave it as is or add a few different features to elevate the customer experience and ambiance. Some businesses may look to add things like misters , heaters, lighting, fans or speakers.

These additional touches can expand the amount of time a patio or outdoor space can be used — encouraging customers to visit, dine and enjoy throughout the day.

Elevate Your Arizona Business with a Commercial Awning

Arizona Awnings is the top choice for commercial awnings for businesses throughout the Valley. We offer fixed and retractable awnings made with our high-quality, durable fabrics and materials.

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