A Brief History of Fabric Awnings, Fabrics, Frames, Design and Function

Awnings as window and door coverings have been in existence for hundreds of years.

Prior to the 1950's, awning fabrics were made of treated cotton.

Treated cotton was subject to mildew, rot and fading but still held up well.

Historically, stationary awning frames were made of threaded water pipe and loosely covered with exterior grade fabrics.

Historically, retractable storefront awnings utilized gears and water pipe arms.

Awning design and shapes were limited almost entirely to straight shapes. If you wanted anything but straight shapes, you were required to contract with a steel fabrication company.

The number of awning fabric colors and patterns were limited based on relatively low sales demand.

In about 1975, the awning industry discovered that frames could be made by cutting bending and welding lengths of thin wall tubing.

New and exciting awning shapes were now easy to make.  Awning became more popular because of all the new and exciting awning shapes available.

Awning fabric sales sky-rocketed.

Awning manufacturers began to reinvest in this growth industry, and they became more sophisticated.

Fabric manufacturers began offering more colors and patterns to meet the demand  

Since 1975, awning popularity and sales have continued to grow.

Today, Awning manufacturers can make any shape you can design!