A Brief History of Fabric Awnings, Fabrics, Frames, Design and Function
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Awnings as window and door coverings have been in existence for hundreds of years.
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Prior to the 1950's, awning fabrics were made of treated cotton.
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Treated cotton was subject to mildew, rot and fading but still held up well.
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Historically, stationary awning frames were made of threaded water pipe and loosely covered with exterior grade fabrics.
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Historically, retractable storefront awnings utilized gears and water pipe arms.
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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.
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The number of awning fabric colors and patterns were limited based on relatively low sales demand.
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In about 1975, the awning industry discovered that frames could be made by cutting bending and welding lengths of thin wall tubing.
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New and exciting awning shapes were now easy to make. Awning became more popular because of all the new and exciting awning shapes available.
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Awning fabric sales sky-rocketed.
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Awning manufacturers began to reinvest in this growth industry, and they became more sophisticated.
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Fabric manufacturers began offering more colors and patterns to meet the demand
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Since 1975, awning popularity and sales have continued to grow.
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Today, Awning manufacturers can make any shape you can design!