Did you know awnings used to be an important feature on street scenes across the country? Before air conditioning and tinted glass, people had to find other practical ways to keep the sun’s rays from heating up their shops and homes. Awnings were practical, effective and affordable. Today’s streetscapes are beginning to rediscover the awning as city’s seek to preserve or restore a historic main street look and feel to city centers.

What Purposes Did Awnings Serve in the 19th Century?

In addition to reducing the strong heating effects of the sun, awnings served additional purposes. Awnings over shop windows stopped store window items from fading in the sun. They also allowed shoppers to comfortably windowshop even while it was raining. Awnings were able to do all of this without affecting air circulation.

For businesses, awnings even served advertising purposes. Logos and names of stores or brands were attractively painted onto the awnings. That way potential shoppers viewing the buildings from across the way or a second-story window could see the logo and name of the business.

19th Century Awnings

Awnings in the 19th century were much simpler than those of today. The awnings were basic structures of wood or iron over which canvas was draped. Some stores, businesses and individuals had more elaborate structures with balls and embellishments. During this time, the canvas wasn’t unfurled all of the time. Rather, the canvas would be rolled up on overcast days or when not needed. The framework stayed out regardless of the weather.

Later in the 19th century, awnings were developed that could be retracted, frame and all. This offered property owners a greater amount of flexibility for deciding when to put out or take in the awning.

Eventually, roller awnings were developed that operated with two fixed arms that could pull up against the building while the canvas was rolled up and tucked under a metal or wooden structure.

19th Century Awning Style

Awnings of all colors were created, but the most popular colors were tan, slate, and green. Stripes were also often used. These practical shade and protective structures also became a form of decoration for the buildings.

Awnings were used just as much for commercial purposes as for residences. People could enjoy a covered balcony or patio at a moment’s notice with the new moveable and roller awnings.

Today, a greater variety of awnings are available. From manually operated to motorized to even fixed awnings, there are an abundance of options to meet your needs. Colors, fabrics, customizations and improved waterproof textiles mean that awnings have improved their performance and appearance. Vinyl resins, polyester materials and acrylic fibers are now standard in the industry to help ensure that awnings last as long as possible.

While some property owners seek to put up awnings for strictly practical reasons, others do so to restore the original historic appearance of the building. If you’re interested in installing awnings on your historic building, you may wish to have an expert come in to help you determine what type of awning would best match the character and period of the building.

Ready to discover the amazing practical and aesthetic benefits of customized awnings? Call Aero Shade Custom Window Coverings today at 323.457.2835!