If you are looking for a great way for your business to stand out from the competition, an awning sign can be a very distinctive way to advertise your business.
Awnings have a very long and storied history dating back to the Roman Empire. A retractable awning called a velarium was used to provide shade at the Roman Colosseum. Awnings are also traced back to the ancient civilizations in Egypt and Syria where structures were built with woven materials to shade customers at market stalls and even at people’s homes.
The awnings that we see now on private and commercial buildings or as signs at a retail location also have a long history in the United States dating back to the early to the mid-19th century. The industrial revolution in the United States often called the second industrial revolution, started in 1820 and extended through the Civil War until about 1870. During that time, technical advancements improved quality of life and led to inventions such as the sewing machine, the lightbulb, the steam engine, and even telephones and eventually, a combustible engine.
Another technology that made significant advances during this time was plumbing, and it was thanks to plumbing that the first awnings were created. Using plumbing pipes as a frame due to their durability and ease to cut and shape, they were often covered with cotton duck canvas and used as decorations on buildings, for shade, and to create signs to promote business.
Over the years the materials used for awnings have changed and improved. While pipes are still used in some cases, the old plumbing pipes have been replaced with welded frames. These frames allow the fabric to be pulled tight over the frame, looking more professional with a cleaner look. Fabric over a welded frame lasts longer and if you decide to change the fabric, it is much easier to do so, saving you money in the long run.
Besides the materials used for the frame. The material used for the canvas has also changed. Duck canvas was replaced with vinyl, which is far more durable, and less prone to fading and wear and tear. Other materials such as acrylic and polyester were also very popular in the latter part of the 20th century.
Awnings have only gained in popularity into the 21st century with lightweight welded frames and strong and sturdy fade-resistant fabrics. While these awnings are extremely popular with businesses, awnings are also very popular with homeowners using them as decorative accents over doors and windows to provide shade from the sun and protection from the rain creating a space where you can enjoy your yard or entertain friends regardless of the weather. Burhani Signs and Graphic provides top-quality awnings with a sign guaranteed to last despite the extreme differences in weather we experience here. If you are looking for a way to make your business stand out, or even a way to create a protected space at home, give us a call to discuss the options an awning can provide.
