Awnings are roof-like structures, made of canvas or other material attached to the exterior wall, which serves as shelter. They are also known as overhangs. They may be placed on a building above doors, windows or sidewalks.

Broad overhangs may be used in restaurants for outdoor reception, dining or parties. In commercial buildings, they may be painted with information to act as billboards as well as provide shelter from rain, snow and strong winds. For hotel entrances, columns may be used to extent overhangs further from the building.

Awnings can provide enough outdoor space so that you can enjoy improved living space in all seasons. The benefits of overhangs include:

1. Protection from wet seasons – Overhangs are strong enough to withstand rain, snow and wind. The canvas designed to resist mildew and water to enable you to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about the weather conditions.
2.  Protection from sun – Heat from the sun can sometimes be unbearable. Overhangs can cool your outdoor area and prevent heat from getting inside the house. They can also protect fabrics from the damage of sunlight.
3. Ease of control and functionality – Overhang maintenance is easy. They are designed to match your requirements and fit your lifestyle. Retractable overhangs can easily be moved with just a touch of a button. They are flexible and tough enough; they can be set in any direction and angle.

Overhangs may be shaped in various styles such as slope, crescent, waterfall, dome and ornamental among other shapes.

There are several types of awnings. They include:

1. Retractable Overhangs – Retractable hangs create an upscale outdoor living area which may be used for relaxing with family or entertaining guests. They can be easily extended or retracted with a motor or a hand crank.
2. Canvas Porch Roller Curtains – They are designed to provide shade and privacy. Canvas porch roller curtains can be raised or lowered to any desired height with ease of a rope and pulley system.
3. Canvas Porch Valance – Valances make plain porch look appealing. They can be made in any size and are commonly hung from under the side of a porch ceiling.
4. Window overhangs – They are used to reduce the internal temperature of your home. Overhangs with sides are usually recommended for most windows.
5. Door Overhangs – Door overhangs are made to protect your home from the weather conditions at your French doors, sliding doors and doorways. They are carefully designed to allow free opening of the door.

Retractable overhangs are either in bare bones model or extra functionality features that make them easier to use. The commonly available features are:

– Motorisation – this allows motorised control to extend and retract the overhang. It can either be operated with a remote control or through a switch.

– Weather Guard Cover – this is an accessory for models mounted on roofs. The weather guard feature preserves the appearance and durability of the overhang by protecting its first eight inches

– Rain, Wind and Sun Sensors – these are sensors which automatically retract or extend an overhang depending on the condition of the weather. This feature helps to keep the overhang protected from bad weather.