Types of Awnings Explained: Which One Is Best for You?

Awnings can transform a hot, rainy or sunny outdoor area into a comfortable space for relaxation, socialising, or just escaping harsh weather. In Thailand’s tropical climate—with strong sun, sudden rain and high humidity—picking the right awning is more than a style choice; it’s a practical decision that affects comfort, protection and longevity.

In this article, you’ll learn about types of awnings and how each performs under real conditions. You’ll discover which styles, materials and designs suit different locations and lifestyles, helping you pick the most suitable solution for your home or business.

Key Takeaways

• Overview of the most common awning types found in Thailand.

• Pros and cons of materials like fiberglass, polycarbonate, metal sheet and vinyl.

• Practical considerations: noise, heat, durability, maintenance.

• Tips to match awning type with your space and weather conditions.

What Is an Awning?

An awning is a secondary covering attached to the exterior of a building, usually above windows, doors or patios. It provides shade from sunlight, protection from rain, and helps prevent heat from penetrating the interior space. Awnings also expand usable outdoor areas and improve the appearance of a building.

Their primary benefits include reducing indoor temperatures, shielding furniture or vehicles, cutting glare, and creating comfortable outdoor zones that are usable even in rain. A well-chosen awning can also save energy by lowering indoor cooling demand.

Different Types of Awnings

1. Fiberglass Awnings

Fiberglass, commonly sold as delight sheets, is semi-transparent and lightweight. It lets in daylight while offering modest shade. However, it does not insulate well, can be noisy under heavy rain, and is more prone to cracking under impact.

Advantages:

• Allows light in.

• Low weight, easy to handle.

Disadvantages:

• Poor sound insulation during rain.

• Less durable, risk of cracking.

Best for areas needing some natural light but not heavy rain protection.

2. Polycarbonate Awnings

Made from thermoplastic resin, polycarbonate sheets are strong and flexible under heat. They offer more impact resistance and UV protection than fiberglass, but installation can be tricky and sheets may be harder to replace.

Advantages:

• Strong, flexible, with good UV resistance.

Disadvantages:

• Challenging to replace.

• Less effective sound reduction.

Suitable for curved or modern designs, ideal for areas where strength is essential.

3. Metal Sheet Awnings (Metal-sheet)

Popular for garages and industrial use, metal sheet awnings (or metal-sheet) are made from rolled, corrugated steel. They’re strong and affordable, though they trap heat and can be loud in rain.

Advantages:

• Cheap, robust, widely available.

Disadvantages:

• Poor thermal and sound insulation.

• Gets hot under the sun.

Better for shade-only zones or garages, not ideal for living areas.

4. Vinyl Awnings (UPVC)

Vinyl awnings crafted from UPVC are durable, quiet in rain and effective at blocking heat. They resist corrosion and offer a longer life span—often over a decade—and are relatively easy to install.

Advantages:

• Silent under rain.

• Excellent heat blocking.

• Durable, lightweight, corrosion-free.

Disadvantages:

• Higher initial cost.

• Limited transparency (opaque).

Highly recommended for residential patios, porches and walkways in tropical climates.

Choosing the Right Awning for Your Needs

Consider Your Space

• Windows & entrances: Vinyl or metal sheet works well for shade and rain cover.

• Patios, balconies: Vinyl offers comfort and noise reduction; polycarbonate if you want filtered light.

• Garages or carport roofs: Metal sheet is cost-effective; polycarbonate offers durability.

Think About Functionality

• Permanent installations like fixed or framed systems suit vinyl and metal.

• Retractable or motorised systems can be paired with vinyl or lightweight materials, depending on design.

Weather Conditions in Thailand

Thailand’s sunshine, humidity and heavy rainfall demand materials that withstand UV, resist staining or mold, and suppress noise during downpours. Vinyl performs exceptionally well in all these conditions. Metal sheet and fiberglass do not insulate, and polycarbonate can heat up if too thin.

Budget and Maintenance

• Fiberglass and metal sheet are lower upfront cost but may require replacements sooner.

• Vinyl requires more investment but saves long term via durability and low upkeep.

• Cleaning: vinyl and polycarbonate can be wiped down easily; metal sheet may rust or corrode over time.

Conclusion

Choosing the best awning in Thailand’s tropical climate requires balancing durability, comfort and budget. Fiberglass offers light yet fragile coverage, polycarbonate brings strength and UV protection, metal sheets provide affordability with noise and heat trade-offs, while vinyl awnings deliver quiet, cool, long-lasting shading ideal for homes.

Assess your space—whether window, patio, carport or balcony—then match it with an awning that suits your priorities: noise control, heat reduction, rain protection, or aesthetics. Invest in a quality install and maintenance routine, and your awning will serve you well for many years.

FAQs

1. What is the most durable type of awning? Vinyl (UPVC) awnings are generally the most durable in tropical climates. They resist UV, moisture, rust and impact, and tend to last 10+ years.

2. Are retractable awnings suitable for Thailand’s rainy season? Yes, if paired with waterproof fabrics or materials like vinyl or treated polycarbonate. Avoid retractable systems with fiberglass alone in heavy rain zones.

3. How long does an awning typically last? Vinyl can last a decade or more; polycarbonate around 5–7 years depending on thickness; metal sheets may last 5–10 years, fiberglass about 3–5 before degrading.

4. Can awnings reduce electricity costs? Yes. Awnings block direct sunlight from entering windows and doors, reducing indoor temperature and lowering cooling energy use—especially with heat-blocking vinyl or polycarbonate.

5. What materials are best for withstanding tropical weather? Vinyl is top choice for tropical climates due to its heat-blocking, moisture-resistant, and sound-dampening properties. Polycarbonate offers UV resistance and strength but can warp under prolonged sun unless thick-gauge. Metal and fiberglass are less optimal for comfort and longevity.