When summer temperatures frequently exceed 100 degrees, awnings on Phoenix homes are more of a necessity than a nice-to-have. Yet, not all awnings are created equal. When you want an awning that will last longer than a season or two, choosing the right awning fabric is of the utmost importance. Awning fabric materials are the main factor in tear resistance, mold resistance, fade resistance, and the lifespan of your awning. That’s why comparing outdoor awning fabric materials is a crucial part of choosing an awning.
Comparing Common Awning Fabric Types
While appearance and price are essential factors to consider when choosing an awning for your Phoenix home, weather-resistant awning fabric is vital to quality and endurance. The best awning fabric for outdoor use will be durable and specially designed to withstand the elements affecting your home. Some of the best awning fabric types for outdoor use include:- Canvas: Once one of the most popular fabrics for awnings, cotton canvas is eco-friendly and attractive. However, it is less durable than many modern fabrics, making it a poor choice for harsh outdoor environments. Rot, mildew, and fade are some of the main issues associated with cotton canvas awnings.
- Olefin (polypropylene): Fabric made from spun plastic threads, olefin fabrics are praised for their moisture resistance and lightweight composition. However, poor UV resistance makes them a less-than-ideal choice for most Phoenix homes.
- Acrylic: Acrylic fabrics are softer to the touch than many outdoor awning fabric materials and have superior fade resistance since the color is added to the solution before the fibers are created. Acrylic is breathable, UV-resistant, and designed for year-round exposure.
- Polyester: Woven polyester is derived from petroleum to create a tightly woven, UV-resistant, waterproof awning fabric. It’s breathable, fade-resistant, mildew-resistant, and withstands harsh environments. However, it may need occasional recoating for added water repellency.
How Different Factors Affect Long-Term Use
The specific qualities of durable awning fabrics contribute to their ability to last for years, despite harsh conditions. Factors to consider when choosing the best awning fabric include:- Sun protection and UV-resistant awning fabric: An awning that fully protects from the sun’s rays resists fading and UV damage to provide a cover that protects your home’s exterior, your furniture, and your family from the dangers of UV rays.
- Heat control: Breathable fabrics that are treated to protect against UV rays protect your home and your body from excessive heat and UV rays.
- Moisture resistance: Although Phoenix is known for its arid climate, moisture resistance is essential to avoid damage from high humidity and sudden downpours during the monsoon season.
- Durability: The best awning materials are designed to create a fabric that doesn’t break down with repeated sun exposure and moisture from the environment. Sturdy and flexible materials are less prone to tearing and degradation, ensuring they can provide a comfortable outdoor setting for years.