Awning fabric facts, materials, and advice when choosing an awning
An awning is an external sunshade that is mounted over windows, balconies, patios, or outdoor areas to reduce solar radiation, heat, and glare. Awnings are used in both private homes and commercial environments such as shops, restaurants, and real estate.
On this page, you will find comprehensive and verified information about awnings: how they work, the materials used, different types of awnings, durability, climate impact, and what distinguishes a custom-made awning from standard solutions.
What is an awning?
Today, awning fabrics are made almost exclusively from spun-dyed acrylic or screen material for vertical sun protection. These materials are designed to withstand prolonged UV exposure, weathering, and the Nordic climate.
The fabrics are normally sold through retailers, not directly to end customers.
Established suppliers of awning and screen fabrics
Below is a list of well-known and established manufacturers of awning and screen fabrics.
The list is not ranked, and there are also other suppliers on the market.
Well-known fabric suppliers
Sattler – awning fabric & screen fabric
Speed test (Sandatex) – awning fabric
Dickson – awning fabric & screen fabric
Ferrari Soltis – screen fabric
Which awning fabric should you choose?
Spun-dyed acrylic (standard awning fabric)
Most high-quality awning fabrics are made from solution-dyed acrylic.
This means that the dye is added before the yarn is spun, which results in:
through-dyed fiber
very high color fastness (7–8 on an 8-point scale)
long life without fading
The surface treatment makes the fabric:
dirt-repellent
water-repellent
mold resistant
Is awning fabric waterproof?
Awnings are not rain protection.
Facts:
Standard awning fabric can withstand:
dew
drizzle
light summer rain
During heavy rain, the following may occur:
water mist penetrate the fabric
even if it doesn't “leak”
Waterproof awning fabric
There are 100 % waterproof awning fabrics, commonly found in:
cafés
restaurants
outdoor dining
Disadvantages:
limited color range
higher price
stiffer material
Screen fabric – facts and function
Screen fabric is a perforated, coated fabric that:
filter light
retains the view
significantly reduces heat
Features:
can block up to 92% of radiant heat
contributes to energy savings
provides a pleasant indoor climate
Screen fabric material
There are two main types:
Polyester/PVC
Fiberglass/PVC (most dimensionally stable)
Screen fabric is mainly used in:
vertical awnings
window sunshade
modern facade solutions
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