What Are The Different Types Of Awnings in Singapore?

An awning is a cover that extends like some kind of roof over a certain area such as above a window or door or over a deck. In Singapore just like in other countries; awnings are used to provide protection from the vagaries of nature. Awnings that are used over the windows usually block the suns heat and can be used to lower the power bills over the hot season when most people tend to use air conditioners and cooling systems.

In Singapore there are numerous types of awnings; but they can all be divided under the following categories. They include;

Fixed Awnings
These awnings are quite popular in Singapore. They can also be referred to as stationery awnings; as the name suggests they permanently installed in a certain fixed position in a given location or place. They are most commonly placed over a door, a patio, window or deck.

These awnings come in different shapes and sizes depending on the architectural demands of the building or the individual taste of the owner. The most popular shapes that dot the Singapore buildings are the concave, dome, convex and the more traditional and quite popular straight slope awning.
Although most of such awnings are usually made of some high quality canvas material, they can also be made from metal, especially aluminum; which is relatively cheap, light and quite weather resistant. Most patio awnings are usually made of aluminum whereas some windows or deck owners prefer having canvas based awnings.

Retractable Awnings
These awnings are popular in areas where space and need for movement are given a priority; usually high traffic areas like cities and towns. These awnings that are popular in major towns of Singapore like Singapore city and can be rolled or folded up when not in use. Most retractable awnings that are currently being produced are motorised even though there are still a good number of retractable awnings that are operated manually.

These awnings have the distinct advantage of versatility as they can be used as a shade when required, and can also be saved from the harsh weather conditions like heavy monsoon rains which can damage the awning after long exposure.

The Freestanding Awnings
These awnings are also called unattached or portable awnings. They can literally be moved to any place where they are required. They usually have some fabric that is stretched onto either a metal or wooden frame and attached to 2 poles; one at each end. These awnings though similar to canopies (which has four poles) to some extent, have a distinct difference in that they only have 2 poles and thus require a more sturdy and stable base for poles.

A free standing awning is similar to a shade and is quite popular in hotels and camp sites. They are quite easy to install and can be used for a wide variety of functions and purposes; they have lately gained a lot of popularity especially with the young, who do a lot of outdoor activities from time to time. They come in different sizes and are thus quite portable and easy to carry too.