An awning is a secondary covering attached to the exterior wall of a building. It is typically composed of canvas or acrylic cloth that is stretched tightly over a light structure of aluminum, iron or steel, and possibly wood. The configuration of this structure is something of a truss, space frame or planar frame. The location of an awning on a building is either above a window, a door, or above the area along a sidewalk. With the addition of columns an awning is able to extend enough from a building to line an entryway, as in the case of an entrance to a hotel. Restaurants often use awnings broad enough to cover substantial outdoor area for outdoor dining, parties, or reception. In commercial buildings such as these, an awning is often painted with information as to the name, business, and address, thus acting as a sign or billboard in addition to providing shade from the sun, break from steep winds and dryness from rain or snow.

Although light colored awnings may give a light, airy feel to the area, they let more sunlight through than darker shades. They are therefore less economical.

Retractable Awnings: Retractable Awnings are now becoming very popular with property owners. Retractable Awnings can include the following types:

Lateral Arm Type: Can shade a patio on a hot day and be retracted manually or with a motor to allow the sun to shine when desired. Screens to keep bugs out are now sometimes fitted.

Side Arm Type: Commonly used to shade windows

Tension Shade: Used to shade sunrooms.