When to Choose Awnings Versus Canopies for Your Storefront

Shade is a peculiar subject to dwell on as an entrepreneur or small business owner. It is not something that many business owners or operators usually think of when they think of business. However, as the summer months come up, shade becomes important. Shade can be the difference between making a sale, especially if your products are visible from your storefront window.

Shade is very important to invest in, even if your business is located in an area that does not have a lot of Sun throughout the year. Shade is also important in blocking the rain and snow. Practically any business in any area of the globe could benefit from casting a little bit of shade on their storefront exterior.

Shade is easy to provide. The most difficult part of providing shade is learning that you need it. After all, it does not make sense at first to invest in something that you can get for free. Shade can be cast beside large trucks, trees, and even other buildings. To most business owners, it does not make much sense to invest in at least one awning or canopy in order to generate additional shade. However, doing so can increase your revenues throughout the year.

However, to first understand the benefits of shade and the best products to invest in that will generate shade; you first need to learn the difference between awnings and canopies.

Awnings and canopies are similar, but have fundamentally different functions besides providing individuals underneath them with some shade. As a small business owner, you need to know the difference between these two products so that you do not accidentally purchase the wrong one for your store.

Awnings

Awnings are sheets, usually made of canvas but they can be made of other similar materials that are stretched on a metal frame. You usually see them hanging above storefront windows. While you cannot move an awning very easily, since they are attached to the side of your storefront, you can design a custom one to determine the height, width, and shade coverage. You can pair an awning with any sort of window, especially if you custom-create it.

Canopies

Canopies are also sheets that are stretched on a frame, but are not necessarily attached to a storefront’s exterior. In fact, they are usually freestanding structures and can be placed and moved around based on where you think each canopy is most useful. Since they are freestanding structures, they can be moved anywhere, your staff can move them on a whim, or to protect customers sitting at a nearby table from the Sun or from rain.

Both these products both fulfill the same purpose and provide the same benefit for your storefront, they just do it in different ways. It all comes down to personal preference. If you are undecided, what you should do is sit down and list the pros and cons of each option, and then settle on the option that has the highest net positive for you and your business. Purchase one today and reap the benefits! Make sure you order one before the summer vacation season starts if it has not already started for you.

For the best in awnings and canopies, visit Vital Signs in and around Toronto, Markham, Richmond Hill, Concord, Newmarket, Thornhill, the GTA, Brampton, and Mississauga. If you have never purchased an awning or canopy before, you owe it to yourself to purchase one. The results will happily surprise you. For more information, please visit us online at our website or in-store today.