An awning, a secondary covering often attached to the exterior wall of a building, is a perfect solution for those seeking to enhance their outdoor living space while also providing shade and weather protection.
With a wide variety of types of awnings for decks and patios available, you can transform your outdoor area into a stylish and functional extension of your home.
In this guide, you will discover 15 of the most elegant and innovative awnings for 2024 that not only serve the purpose of weather protection, but also add aesthetic value to your deck or patio. Keep scrolling to discover the awning that will elevate your outdoor experience to a whole new level.
15 Types of Deck Awnings To Consider
For discerning homeowners looking to elevate their outdoor spaces, the following 15 awning types offer an exceptional blend of style, practicality, and innovation. Each design presents a unique approach to weather protection and aesthetic enhancement, promising to transform your deck or patio into a truly inviting outdoor haven in 2024.
Retractable Awnings
Cost
Material Options for Retractable Awnings
The most popular materials used for retractable awnings include fabric and metal.
- Fabric Awnings: These offer a classic look and are available in various colors and patterns. They are excellent for reducing the sun’s rays, but they can wear over time due to weather conditions.
- Metal Awnings: These are a more durable choice, able to withstand heavy rain and hot sun. While typically more expensive, their longevity makes them a worthy investment.
Application of Retractable Awnings
Retractable awnings are versatile, making them a perfect solution for multiple types of outdoor areas. They are excellent for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Awnings With Other Decoration Elements
A well-chosen retractable awning can elevate the aesthetic of your outdoor space. Here are some elements that can be paired with your awning to create a cohesive look:
- Outdoor furniture: Choose pieces that complement the style and color of your awning.
- Sun shades: These can provide additional protection from the sun and UV rays, especially in areas where your awning does not cover.
- Integrated lighting: This can enhance the ambiance of your outdoor area, making it a great option for evening use.
Patio Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Patio Awnings
There are two main material options for patio awnings: fabric and metal.
- Fabric Awnings: Available in various colors and patterns, fabric awnings provide a classic look. They effectively block the sun’s rays but may wear over time due to weather conditions.
- Metal Awnings: Known for their durability, metal awnings can withstand heavy rain and hot sun. While often more expensive than their fabric counterparts, their longevity makes them a worthy investment.
Application of Patio Awnings
Patio awnings are an excellent addition for various outdoor settings. They’re perfect for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Patio Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Creating a harmonious outdoor space involves pairing your patio awning with other decorative elements. Here are some suggestions:
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose pieces that complement the style and color of your awning.
- Sun Shades: These are great for providing extra protection from the sun and UV rays in areas not covered by the awning.
- Integrated Lighting: This is an excellent option for enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor area, making it perfect for evening use.
Motorized vs. Manual Operation
Patio awnings can either be manually operated or motorized. Manual operation is achieved through a hand crank, while motorized awnings employ an electric motor for ease of use. Some high-end models even feature remote control operation, providing a seamless experience of opening and closing the awning.
With patio awnings, you can control the amount of sun and shade in your outdoor area, ensuring a comfortable ambiance regardless of the weather conditions. Whether you utilize them for occasional use during hot summer days or as a permanent cover to protect your deck from the elements, patio awnings remain a reliable choice for enhancing your outdoor living experience.
Motorized Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Motorized Awnings
Motorized awnings come in two main types of materials: fabric and metal.
- Fabric Awnings: These are available in myriad colors and patterns, providing both style and function. While they effectively block sun rays, they might wear over time due to weather exposure.
- Metal Awnings: These are revered for their durability, standing up to heavy rain and harsh sun. Though pricier, their longevity makes them a great investment.
Application of Motorized Awnings
Motorized awnings are a versatile solution, ideally suited for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Motorized Awnings With Other Decoration Elements
A motorized awning can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. Here are some elements that pair well with your awning:
- Outdoor furniture: Pick furniture that matches the style and color of your awning.
- Sun shades: They can provide extra protection against UV rays, especially in areas where the awning doesn’t reach.
- Integrated lighting: This can enrich the ambiance of your outdoor area for evening use.
Stationary Awnings
Stationary awnings, also known as fixed awnings, are a perfect addition to any outdoor living space and they remain open all the time, providing constant protection from the sun and weather conditions.
They are a great option for areas of the backyard that require permanent shelter, such as an outdoor kitchen or a deck. Stationary awnings are more durable and typically withstand heavier weather conditions compared to other types of awnings for decks.
Cost Range
Material Options for Stationary Awnings
Stationary awnings come in a variety of material options to cater to different style preferences and weather conditions. Here are the two main options:
- Fabric Awnings: These awnings provide an array of colors and patterns, offering style alongside functionality. They effectively block the sun’s rays but may require more maintenance due to weather exposure.
- Metal Awnings: Known for their durability, metal awnings can withstand heavy rain and hot sun. Although they often come with a higher price tag, their longevity makes them a worthwhile investment.
Application of Stationary Awnings
Stationary or fixed awnings are ideal for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Stationary Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Integrating your stationary awning with other deck decorations can create a harmonious and stylish outdoor space. Consider pairing your awning with:
- Outdoor Furniture: Opt for pieces that match the color and style of your awning to create a cohesive look.
- Sun Shades: Provide extra protection from UV rays in areas that the awning doesn’t cover.
- Integrated Lighting: Enhance the ambiance of your outdoor area with lighting, especially for evening use.
Fabric Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Motorized Awnings
Fabric awnings offer a selection of material options, each with its own unique advantages:
- Canvas: Canvas is a classic choice for fabric awnings, renowned for its durability and versatility. It’s ideal for outdoor use as it can withstand weather conditions, while providing effective protection from UV rays.
- Acrylic: Acrylic fabrics are resistant to fading and mildew, making them a great option for areas with high humidity. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns to match your outdoor decor.
Application of Fabric Awnings
Fabric awnings are an excellent choice for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Fabric Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Fabric awnings can be paired with a variety of other deck decorations to create a cohesive outdoor space:
- Outdoor Furniture: Complement your fabric awning with outdoor furniture that aligns with its style and color.
- Sun Shades: These can be used in tandem with fabric awnings to provide additional shade in areas where the awning might not reach.
- Integrated Lighting: Adding lights to your outdoor area can enhance the ambiance, especially for evening use.
Pergola Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Pergola Awnings
The choice of material can significantly impact the durability, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal of pergola awnings. Here are two primary material options:
- Fabric Coverage: Fabric pergola awnings provide a wide variety of colors and patterns, and are more suitable for DIY installation. They offer protection from sun rays but may require more frequent maintenance due to weather exposure.
- Metal Coverage: Metal pergola awnings are notable for their durability and ability to withstand a variety of weather conditions, including heavy rain and hot sun. They require less frequent maintenance but usually carry a higher price tag.
Application of Pergola Awnings
Pergola awnings can be an excellent addition to:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Pergola Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Creating a harmonious outdoor space involves integrating your pergola awning with other deck decorations, such as:
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose furniture that matches the color and style of your pergola awning to create a cohesive look.
- Sun Shades: Additional sun shades can provide extra protection from UV rays in areas not covered by the pergola awning.
- Integrated Lighting: Enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor area with integrated lighting, especially for evening use, can make a significant difference.
Glass Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Glass Awnings
Glass awnings most commonly utilize two primary materials:
- Tempered Glass: This type of glass is renowned for its strength and safety features. If it breaks, it shatters into small, dull pieces instead of sharp shards.
- Laminated Glass: Laminated glass consists of two or more glass sheets bonded together with a plastic interlayer. It has similar strength characteristics to tempered glass but offers improved safety by holding together when shattered.
Application of Glass Awnings
Glass awnings can be an effective solution for providing shade in your outdoor living space while maintaining a light and airy aesthetic. They are excellent for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Glass Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Glass awnings can be paired with other deck decorations to create a unified and stylish outdoor space. Here are a few suggestions:
- Outdoor Furniture: Opt for furniture that reflects the modern aesthetic of your glass awning. Consider choosing materials like metal or sleek, weather-resistant fabrics.
- Integrated Lighting: Glass awnings can create a stunning interplay with lights. Consider installing integrated lighting for a magical evening atmosphere.
- Sun Shades: Pairing additional sun shades with glass awnings can further regulate the amount of sun exposure, offering additional protection from UV rays.
Glass awnings are a premium choice that enhances your outdoor living space with style and functionality. They offer protection from adverse weather conditions, create shade, and contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the heat gain inside your home.
Whether you opt for automatic, retractable awnings with a remote control or a stationary, fixed awning, this type of deck awning is an investment that adds significant value to your outdoor experience.
Freestanding Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Freestanding Awnings
Freestanding awnings come in a variety of materials, each offering its own set of characteristics. Here are the most common ones:
- Fabric: Fabric freestanding awnings offer a wide range of colors and patterns. They need regular maintenance and are more suitable for temperate climates.
- Metal: Metal freestanding awnings are known for their durability. They are resistant to various weather conditions, require minimal maintenance, but generally carry a higher price tag.
Application of Freestanding Awnings
Freestanding awnings are versatile and can be used in a multitude of settings, such as:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Freestanding Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Pairing freestanding awnings with the right deck decorations can enhance your outdoor experience. Some suggestions include:
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose furniture that complements the style and color of your freestanding awning to create a cohesive look.
- Outdoor Rugs: A well-chosen outdoor rug can add a splash of color and provide a cozy underfoot feeling.
- Planters: Use planters with vibrant flowers or lush greenery to create a natural, relaxing, and inviting atmosphere.
Sun Shades
Cost Range
Material Options for Sun Shades
Sun shades are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fabric, which is known for its durability and UV resistance. Other material options may include:
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): This is a heavier, waterproof fabric that provides excellent sun protection and is suitable for areas with heavy rainfall.
- Canvas: Often used for its aesthetic appeal, canvas is durable and offers a high level of UV protection, but may not be as breathable as HDPE.
Application of Sun Shades
Sun shades are a cost-effective and straightforward solution for a range of outdoor areas. They are excellent for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
Walkways
Pairing Sun Shades with Other Decorative Elements
Sun shades can be paired with a variety of deck decorations to create an inviting outdoor space. Some suggestions include:
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose furniture that complements the color and shape of your sun shade for a harmonious look.
- Outdoor Rugs: An outdoor rug can add a touch of coziness and help define your space under the sun shade.
- Outdoor Lighting: String lights or lanterns can add ambiance for evening use of your outdoor space.
Fixed Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Fixed Awnings
Fixed awnings can be crafted from a variety of materials, each with its unique features and benefits. The most common options include:
- Fabric: Fabric fixed awnings come in a plethora of colors and patterns, allowing for high customization. They may require more maintenance and are ideal for temperate climates.
- Metal: Metal fixed awnings offer superior durability and can withstand various weather conditions. They require less maintenance but are typically more expensive.
- Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate fixed awnings are lightweight, durable, and let in natural light while providing UV protection. They are resistant to weather changes and require minimal maintenance.
Application of Fixed Awnings
Fixed awnings are robust and versatile shading solutions perfect for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Fixed Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Fixed awnings can be paired with various deck decorations to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space. Some suggestions include:
- Outdoor Furniture: Create a harmonious look by selecting furniture that matches the style and color of your fixed awning.
- Outdoor Rugs: A well-placed outdoor rug can add warmth, define spaces, and complement the color of your awning.
- Lighting: Integrated or string lights can highlight the awning’s structure and create a cozy ambiance during the evening.
Metal Frame Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Metal Frame Awnings
Metal Frame Awnings are typically made from either aluminum or steel, both of which provide excellent durability and weather resistance. Some options include:
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, this metal is ideal for large awnings where weight might be a concern.
- Steel: Known for its strength, steel is the go-to choice for smaller awnings where weight is not an issue.
Application of Metal Frame Awnings
Metal Frame Awnings are suitable for a range of outdoor areas due to their durability and ability to withstand adverse weather conditions. They are excellent for:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Metal Frame Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Just like other types of awnings, Metal Frame Awnings can be paired with various deck decorations to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space. Suggestions include:
- Outdoor Furniture: Opt for robust, weather-resistant furniture that matches the durability and style of your metal frame awning.
- Outdoor Rugs: Choose a heavy-duty outdoor rug that can withstand the same weather conditions as your awning.
- Lighting: Install weatherproof lighting fixtures to illuminate your space under the awning for evening use.
Remote Control Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Remote Control Awnings
Remote control awnings are typically made from durable materials designed to withstand various weather conditions. Some of the common material choices include:
- Fabric: This is a popular choice for its variety of colors, patterns, and flexibility. However, it requires more maintenance.
- Vinyl: Vinyl is a more durable option that offers water resistance and easy cleaning.
- Metal: Metal, such as aluminum or steel, provides superior durability and strength but tends to be the most expensive.
Application of Remote Control Awnings
Thanks to their flexibility and convenience, remote control awnings are excellent for various outdoor areas including:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Remote Control Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
To enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your space under a remote control awning, consider pairing it with:
- Outdoor Furniture: Opt for comfortable, stylish furniture that complements your awning, creating a cohesive outdoor living space.
- Outdoor Rugs: An outdoor rug can add warmth and help define your space, complementing the style of your awning.
- Lighting: Consider installing dimmable LED lights for creating a perfect evening ambiance.
Hand Crank Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Hand Crank Awnings
Hand crank awnings can be made from a variety of materials, each with their advantages:
- Fabric: Provides flexibility and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, but requires regular maintenance.
- Vinyl: An inexpensive, durable option that is easy to clean, but offers fewer design options.
- Metal: Often made from aluminum or steel, provides superior strength and durability but at a higher cost.
Application of Hand Crank Awnings
Hand crank awnings are a versatile shading solution, excellent for a variety of outdoor areas such as:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Hand Crank Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Just like other awnings, hand crank awnings can be jazzed up with various deck decorations:
- Outdoor Furniture: Select pieces that complement the style and color of your hand crank awning.
- Outdoor Rugs: A well-chosen rug can add warmth and define the space beneath your awning.
- Lighting: Consider adding string lights or lanterns to create a cozy ambiance in the evening under your awning.
Canopies
Cost Range
Material Options for Canopies
Canopies are available in a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits:
- Fabric: Fabric canopies are lightweight and come in a variety of colors and patterns, but may require more frequent maintenance.
- Vinyl: Vinyl canopies provide water resistance and durability with low maintenance requirements.
- Polyester: Known for its strength and durability, polyester is a common choice for outdoor canopies. It is also UV-resistant, making it particularly effective for sun protection.
Applications of Canopies
Canopies serve as excellent shading solutions for a variety of outdoor spaces, including:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside areas
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Canopies with Other Decorative Elements
To enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space under a canopy, consider pairing it with:
- Outdoor Furniture: Select furniture that complements the style and structure of your canopy.
- Outdoor Rugs: A strategically placed rug can add warmth and define your space under the canopy.
- Lighting: Consider adding fairy lights or lanterns around your canopy to create a warm, inviting ambiance for evening gatherings.
Wall-Mounted Awnings
Cost Range
Material Options for Wall-Mounted Awnings
As with other awning types, wall-mounted awnings can be made from a variety of materials. Each material presents its unique benefits:
- Fabric: A popular choice due to its wide range of available colors and patterns. However, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Vinyl: This material is inexpensive and relatively easy to maintain, but design options may be less extensive.
- Metal: Known for its strength and durability, metal awnings are often the priciest option, but they offer long-term resilience.
Application of Wall-Mounted Awnings
Wall-mounted awnings are an excellent addition to various outdoor spaces where shading is desired. They’re commonly installed over:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Poolside decks
- Open outdoor sitting spaces
- Freestanding decks
- Walkways
Pairing Wall-Mounted Awnings with Other Decorative Elements
Just like other awnings, wall-mounted awnings can be enhanced with other decorative elements, such as:
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose furniture that complements the colors and style of your awning to create a comfortable and cohesive outdoor space.
- Outdoor Rugs: Use a rug to define the space under your awning and add an element of warmth.
- Lighting: Adding lights such as string lights or lanterns can create a cozy atmosphere in the evenings.
Top 10 Awning Manufacturers in Knoxville, TN
- Knoxville Awnings: With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Knoxville Awnings offers a wide range of awning designs and colors. They specialize in both commercial and residential awnings, ensuring quality service and products.
- Alpha Canvas & Awning: Alpha Canvas & Awning is a family-owned business that provides top-quality awnings with various customization options. Their range includes both commercial and residential awnings.
- Capitol Awning Company: Serving Knoxville since 1946, Capitol Awning Company offers a variety of awning solutions. Their products are designed for durability and longevity, meeting the diverse needs of their clients.
- Awning FX, Inc.: A leading provider of customized awning solutions, Awning FX, Inc. offers innovative designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. They offer a wide range of residential and commercial awnings.
- Shade & Shutter Systems, Inc.: Known for their high-quality products, Shade & Shutter Systems, Inc. provides a diverse selection of awnings for both residential and commercial use. They focus on providing solutions that are innovative, durable, and visually appealing.
- Awnings by Bigley and Hogshire: Offering a variety of high-quality residential and commercial awnings, Awnings by Bigley and Hogshire is a go-to destination for customized, durable awning solutions in Knoxville.
- Hoover Canvas Products: A family business, Hoover Canvas Products offers a diverse range of awning products. They pride themselves in providing top-notch customer service and high-quality products.
- Coastal Canvas and Awning Company: Providing quality commercial and residential awnings, Coastal Canvas and Awning Company offers a vast selection of styles and materials to choose from, ensuring the perfect fit for any outdoor space.
- Arrow Awning Co.: Specializing in both residential and commercial awnings, Arrow Awning Co. offers a range of awning solutions that are designed for both functionality and style. They strive to meet the specific needs of each customer with their wide selection of products.
- Creative Awnings & Shelters: With a focus on innovation and quality, Creative Awnings & Shelters offers a variety of residential and commercial awning solutions. They pride themselves in their ability to provide durable, attractive awnings that meet their customers’ needs.
FAQs About Types of Awnings For Decks
Contact Your Local Deck Experts For More Advice
A well-structured and durable awning can transform your outdoor living space, providing an ideal blend of comfort and aesthetic appeal. At Riverview Decks, we not only provide awning guidance but also a range of services including deck building and deck repair.
We proudly serve the Knoxville, Maryville, Farragut, Lenoir City, Oak Ridge, and surrounding TN areas.
Beyond decking, we also offer professional pergola installation and hideaway partitions to enhance your outdoor space further. We’re committed to helping you create an outdoor oasis that suits your style and needs. Connect with us at (865) 801-4545 and let’s turn your outdoor dream into reality.