Outdoor coverings like awnings and shade structures have numerous aesthetic and functional benefits for businesses. Awnings are smaller and more dependent on the building’s structure, while shade structures are more versatile and can be installed anywhere on your business premises. The following guide distinguishes between awnings and shade structures to help you figure out the best outdoor shading option for your business.
What Are Awnings?
Awnings are attached to buildings to cover a deck, patio, porch, balcony or courtyard. They often cover door openings, windows and veranda sitting spaces, providing shade and protection against the sun and other elements. Shade awnings must be attached to a building’s exterior to ensure stability, integrity and durability. They boost curb appeal and protect outdoor furniture from fading and weather damage.
Awnings for businesses can be made using either fabric or metal, with the best material determined by their function or application. There are two main types of awnings for businesses:
- Permanent awnings: These are permanently attached to buildings and don’t have retracting mechanisms to ensure continuous localized shade and extended, long-lasting performance. They’re ideal for businesses because they provide year-round protection from the elements.
- Retractable awnings: These flexible awnings can expand or retract using a hand-cranked or electric mechanism. They’re easy to operate and offer varying amounts of shade at different times of the day or the year.
What Are Shade Sails?
Commercial shade structures or shade sails are freestanding coverings that can be installed over walkways, poolsides, parking lots, and seating areas to increase the usability of outdoor spaces. They protect people, furniture and equipment from the weather, setting your business apart and increasing the longevity of your investments.
Fabric shade structures are the most popular option for businesses because they protect against UV rays, rain and other elements. Fabric can also be coated to provide waterproofing and fire resistance. There are numerous types of shade structures to choose from, including options such as:
- Cantilever shade structures: These have a post system positioned at the back to maximize the space underneath the shade. They’re perfect for parking lots, playgrounds, pools, bleachers and outdoor seating areas.
- Shade sails: These visually appealing shade structures, available in three-, four- or five-post structures, are ideal for outdoor spaces and open-air venues. They provide maximum sun protection without creating heavily shaded areas.
- Hip shade structures: These stable shade structures have a straight, sleek roofline, perfect for large applications such as school playgrounds and outdoor event areas.
- Multi-panel shade structures: These are multiple fabric panels that create multilevel shading in various styles and shapes, such as pyramids, octagons and hexagons.
Key Differences Between Awning vs. Shade Sail Structures
While awnings and shade sails generally provide businesses with the same protection benefits, they have numerous differences in how they provide those benefits.
Design and Functionality
Commercial awnings act as extensions over door openings or windows. Their designs are limited to rectangular and square shapes, while shade structures can take a variety of shapes and styles, including custom designs. The size of your shade structures and awnings depends on their function and usage.
Retractable awnings are ideal for outdoor settings of different sizes, including small and large outdoor spaces, as well as areas with low ceiling clearances. The design of retractable storefront awnings can also provide versatility by allowing you to utilize them only when needed.
In comparison, shade structures offer various customization options in terms of shapes and sizes to ensure you design a structure that fits your business. They can take any form, including square, rectangular, triangular or circular, to fit your available space and specific business requirements.
Customization Options
When customizing awnings, you can choose between permanent or retractable styles and many color options. However, shade structures offer more customization possibilities in terms of color, size and shape.
Working with a manufacturer that provides custom shade structures that meet your business expectations is an important part of the process. USA SHADE is a shade structure manufacturer that offers full design and build services, creating shade structures that draw attention to your business, provide superior UV protection and accurately represent your brand. We can also enhance your shade structures with lighting fixtures and other accessories to improve functionality and ambience.
Application and Use Cases
Awnings are suitable for various applications, such as windows, balconies and porches. For example, an awning for restaurants creates a usable sitting space in front of businesses or at the curbside to improve the pickup experience for customers without expensive building extensions.
Shade structures are typically made using sturdy materials like high-density polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, and frames are constructed using aluminum or reinforced steel. Their size and versatility ensure they have a wider variety of uses in commercial establishments, including:
- Outdoor playgrounds: Covering playgrounds with high-quality shade structures ensures children can play safely and comfortably year-round while providing a relaxing space for adults to supervise playtime.
- Outdoor dining areas: Restaurants and bar owners use shade structures to increase seating capacity by creating open-air dining areas where people can enjoy al fresco dining.
- Parking lots: Attract more customers to your business by providing them with covered parking spaces that ensure their vehicles are protected from UV rays, hail damage and falling debris.
- Retail locations: Convenience stores, department stores and grocery stores benefit from shade structures along walkways and in seating areas to improve the curb appeal and enhance the retail experience for customers.
Installation for Shade Sails vs. Awnings
Installing both awnings and shade structures requires a professional to ensure the structural integrity and the safety of the users. Awnings must be securely attached to the building’s exterior, and professional-grade fixing brackets and other tools may be used. After installation, they’re difficult to move because of their close integration into the building.
In comparison, installing shade structures involves more custom work, which involves considering the best location for adequate sun protection, compliance with local building codes, and visual appeal. A thorough installation process results in well-built, permanent structures that provide lasting protection.
How Shade Sails Compare to Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings and shade sails may share the same goal. However, there are many differences to evaluate before making a decision. Before choosing between shade sails and awnings, consider your outdoor layout and create a list of priorities to determine the best solution for your needs.
Shade sails are a good choice for a modern aesthetic that spans a large area. Despite their limited protection during heavy rainfall due to their fixed position, shade sails are ideal for patios during the summer.
With retractable awnings, you have the flexibility to manage the coverage against poor weather conditions and protect against direct sunlight. The up front cost may be more expensive than shade sails. However, retractable awnings are durable, featuring weather-resistant fabrics and high structural strength, provided the proper installation methods are used.
Overall, shade sails and awnings are both suitable solutions for your space. If a permanent fixture with better aesthetics is a priority, a shade sail is likely to be the best option. For companies that value adaptability and maximum weather protection in their outdoor spaces, retractable awnings are a viable option.
Shade Sail vs. Awning FAQs
Although this guide covers differences between shade sails and awnings, the following FAQs offer further information for you to consider which is the best type to buy:
Do Shade Sails Work in Windy Areas?
Yes, with proper installation, shade sails work well in windy conditions. Adequate maintenance techniques also help shade sails withstand strong winds and ensure that the hardware and posts are free from corrosion damage.
Are Shade Sails Suitable for Commercial Use?
Shade sails are suitable for commercial spaces. For businesses that require extensive coverage, the flexibility of shade sails is compatible with various environments and different-sized spaces, including pool areas and playgrounds. However, it is worth noting that shade sails do not offer the same adjustable coverage settings as retractable awnings.
Can I Install a Shade Sail on an Awning?
It is advisable to steer clear of installing a shade sail on an awning. Shade sails must be able to handle considerable tension and high winds, and they require strong anchor points. When combined with awnings, shade sails cannot manage the same tension. Additionally, installing a shade sail on an awning increases the risk of structural damage during severe weather events.
Can I Leave a Shade Sail up All Year?
You can leave your shade sail up throughout the year. However, you may want to remove shade sails during heavy storms to prevent damage. Be sure to clean your shade sail every two to three months to keep it in optimal condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance also limit potential damage.
Contact USA SHADE for Your Shade Structure Solutions
The versatility and customization options of shade structures make them ideal for custom business applications. USA SHADE is the proven leader in fabric structure design and technology, with a commitment to quality and structural integrity. We have a large inventory of pre-engineered structures that are ready to ship, available in numerous color and fabric options. Additionally, we can create custom designs to offer business-specific solutions.
Request a quote today to discuss your needs with one of our experienced shade professionals!
