How Installing Awnings Gives You An Edge Over Competitors— Just Like It Always Has

By Author: Michael Richman
Total Articles: 12
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Awnings are timeless… a staple to successful businesses over the centuries – both in their marketing and branding efforts as well as protecting patrons and wares from the vagaries of wind, rain, sun, cold, ice and snow. Today, storefront awnings continue to be a necessary investment because of these ageless benefits.
 
Colorful, bright awnings give a welcoming appearance to your store and have done so in parts of the world, especially the Middle East, for thousands of years. Such early usage makes sense for two reasons: one is that ancient Mesopotamia, in the Middle East, was where the first civilizations arose, and with them, included trade and commerce. That meant the first storefronts and shop keeps, selling trading, purchasing and bartering for goods.
 
The second reason comes down to climate. While much of the Middle East is arid, with hot summer temperatures, often in the triple digits Fahrenheit in inland, low elevation areas meant that people and property had to be protected. In an age far removed from convention conveniences, awnings, canopies ...
... and commercial shade structures were vital protection against oppressive conditions. A little added shade could lower temperatures by as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. And in a market setting, sometimes with hundreds of awnings lining city centers, whole areas could be cooled simultaneously.
 
Later, in the 19th and 20th centuries – still largely without modern HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems, fixed, ridged awnings made from either canvas or duck skin, accomplished similar goals as their more ancient predecessors. In fact, whole urban and suburban central business districts and Main Street downtowns, were lined, just like in the days of old, with awning after awning after awning. Of course, standing out from the crowd was a challenge, but shade and customer protection were preserved. Thanks to modern advances, however, today’s awnings are protective and marketing gems.
 
So if you’re seeking an edge over your competitors, then what follows are several useful ideas to adorn your storefront with attractive awnings. Good-looking awnings for your storefront are important as these give a positive impression to visitors and passersby. If you want to create an incredible ambience with the help of impressive awnings, then let your imagination take flight; be innovative and unique to get a sure-shot advantage over your local competition.
  
There are various types of awnings available in the market like dome, slant, waterfall, shed, etc. The waterfall is the most commonly used awning. It is a conventional semi-circular awning used by many store owners. They are usually made of canvas, but vinyl can also be used. Slanted awnings are another similar option, with nearly as strong popularity. 
 
With regard to color, choose an awning that is bright in color and visually appealing as it can create an alluring ambience and attract visitors. Store owners should consider the idea of adding their store's logos in a contrasting color by making use of the latest digital laser technology meant for designing graphics. It is also important to use PVC-coated canvas so as to make the awnings resistant to water, harsh weather, fire, etc. Available in several bright colors too, they can enhance the beauty of your store.
 
Lastly, using backlighting to make your awnings appear bright is a good idea as this will catch the attention of the visitors that pass by your store -- especially at night and in the short daylight of winter afternoons. When you spotlight your awnings with the help of backlighting your logo can be easily be seen and noticed at any time of the year.
 
Purchasing storefront awnings is a necessary business investment, but make sure you make the right purchase. While purchasing them you need to consider all aspects of design and functionality to achieve optimum benefit and maximum ROI. Buy these awnings as per the weather conditions in your area and the type of business you run. There are many manufacturers that offer awnings capable of withstanding moderate weather conditions. Large awnings are meant for protection whereas small awnings have decorative value. Regardless of the size, shape, color, material used, remember awnings' long history and take heart in the fact that simple technology -- albeit upgraded and improved over the years -- continues to prove its 21st century worth! 
 
The author of this article is associated with Academy Inc. a reputable commercial shade company.  Whether you need metal or solar awnings by Academy Inc., you’ll be impressed by their selection and completely satisfied with their service and quality.