Awnings can enhance the image your company projects to the world and enhance customers’ first impression of your business. From sleek and modern to classic and comfortable, awnings add form and function to your place of business. We could talk all day about business awnings and canopies and how endlessly customizable they are.
So let’s talk cost. There are some significant differences in the price and installation of metal awnings and canopies and their plastic and canvas counterparts. What’s the most cost-effective awning for yur business?
Metal Business Awnings and Canopies
Metal awnings and canopies are typically fabricated from aluminum. Tough, lightweight and virtually rust-proof, aluminum can stand up to just about anything, but it is versatile enough to suit any design.
The appeal of metal awnings—their durability and versatility—is what makes them a bit pricier than other materials. Aluminum is one of the most budget-friendly metals, especially considering its functionality, but fabrication of aluminum awnings and canopies increases the cost of production. In addition, installing these coverings is a bit more time-intensive. Mtal awning installation is not a DIY-friendly project; it requires the knowledge and skill of professionals.
However, the slightly higher cost of metal coverings and their installation is a sound investment. These coverings are basically impervious to sun, rain, and time, so once they’re up, they stay up. They have been shown to drastically cut energy use by shielding your building from sunlight. In addition, customers love them because they provide some shelter from the elements.
Since they’re rust-proof, sun-proof, and time-proof, aluminum awnings and canopies require basically no maintenance. You will probably experience no issues with the awning itself, although sometimes supporting hardware like brackets or poles need repair or replacement. These tend to be easy fixes that should fall well within your budget.
Plastic and Canvas Awnings and Canopies
Plastic and canvas awnings and canopies tend to appeal to budget-minded business owners. The cost of these business awnings before installation is low, as are the installation costs. It’s even common for some handier business to install these coverings themselves!
The lower cost of plastic and canvas awnings and canopies is due to the lower cost of the materials. Business owners who need to provide a comfortable place for their customers to gather—like restaurant, café, or bookstore owner—often favor plastic and canvas awnings and canopies. This is because the cost to purchase and install these coverings is lower per square foot, stretching your project’s budget farther.
Although these materials are less expensive, they may possess the quality, functionality, and durability you need. They’ll keep your energy bills low, stand strong for years to come, and keep yur customers happy and shielded from sun and rain.
Though their hardiness is unmatched for their cost, plastic and canvas coverings do require maintenance and replacement from time to time. The sun is unkind to these materials and can fade them after a few years. Wear from the elements can cause tearing or breakage. While these concerns are far in your future, they are something to consider when choosing your awning or canopy’s material and construction.
Contact an expert if you have more questions about business awnings
We think we’ve done a pretty good job of outlining the benefits and costs of each type of commercial awning and canopy discussed in this post. However, what you need and how much you’ll spend on your awning or canopy depends on what you want your covering to do for your business and for your customers.
Whenever you’re facing an important decision like this, it’s best to get expert advice tailored to your business’s needs. Consulting the skilled professionals at KC Sign & Awnings means that you’ll have the benefit of years of experience behind you when you choose the materials and construction of your covering. Contact us today, and let us build the right covering for your business and your budget!
