The Different Types and Features of Dome Awning in Malaysia

You already know that awnings provide shade and protection from the sun and rain while allowing air to circulate about any residential or commercial space. This remarkable building feature is also unique as it can double as an attention-grabbing signage for varying types of buildings.

In the 19th Century, awnings began to commonly appear on American storefronts – with the basic hardware consisting of timber or cast iron posts set along the sidewalk edge and linked by a front crossbar. Larger awning installations required angled rafters to link the front crossbar to the building's façade.

Today, awnings have become a common feature and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, frames, and fabrics. Fixed, retractable, dome – all of which continue to serve their main purpose and are subjected to various adaptations to fit varying needs and preferences of different storefronts, windows, and entryways.

In this article, we will discuss the three types of dome awnings in Malaysia along with the features of dome awnings so that you are well-informed about dome awnings.

Types of Dome Awnings

As the name suggests, dome awnings are awnings with rounded faces and rounded sides which provide more style and architectural interest than your traditional awnings such as the hood and convex awnings.

Often resembling a quarter of a sphere, dome awnings are commonly placed above entryways or windows. But, there are limitations to this shape and is used mainly over single windows and doors, because the wider the dome awning, the taller it becomes. 

Moving forward, let’s look at the three common types of dome awnings – entrance domes, canopy domes, and elongated domes.

1. Entrance domes

An entrance dome awning is usually placed on the exterior of a building entrance to shelter users during their entry. The back of the awning is connected to the wall while the front is supported on poles. This style uses either the perfect or canopy dome shape at its front.

2. Canopy domes

Canopy domes are similar to entrance domes but are a larger version and without the height. This type of dome awning solves the problem of covering a large area without disproportionate height. To achieve the dome shape, canopy dome awnings use longer curves to provide better or wider area coverage.

3. Elongated domes

Elongated dome awnings are essentially long awnings with half of a perfect dome shape at each end of the awning, making it capable of spanning any width. The space between the ends of the awning follows the projected curve of the dome but runs straight across from one end to the other. This style of dome awning doesn’t get taller in the space between.

Features of Dome Awnings

Now that you’ve learned about the three types of dome awnings, it’s time to understand the features that make dome awnings a classic yet preferable awning design for storefronts, restaurants, villas and other types of buildings.

1. Inexpensive awning design

When you choose to install dome awnings for your premises, the overall installation cost is usually much lower than other types of awnings. This is because dome awnings are generally constructed with a quarter-sphere and often without the supporting poles. Hence, reducing the cost needed for extra material.

2. Easy installation

Unlike retractable awnings, dome awnings are much simpler to install as they can be mounted on the exterior of the building. If you need the poles to support the front, an awning manufacturer in Selangor like M & N France Fabric Awning can supply and install them for a flawless finish.

3. Sturdy material

The framework of a dome awning is typically made of aluminium or galvanised steel which may utilize either round or square bars to support the awning fabric. Once the bars are bent to the proper curve, the frame is cut and welded together to make the awning. The framework may then be coated to protect it from various weather elements.

4. Timeless design

With the rounded quarter-sphere and inherent symmetry, the timeless design of most dome awnings makes them compatible with almost any architectural style. The compactness and small shade profile of dome awnings also make it suitable for continuous indoor sun protection as well as provide consistent protection from light rains.

5. All-weather fabric

Like any awnings, dome awnings are covered in either fabric or metal material, with the fabric being the more popular material than metal. Besides, awning fabrics are specialized fabrics made to resist the damaging effects of the sun and rain. Available in vinyl, cloth, polyester, etc., most dome awning fabrics are made of synthetic materials.

Consider consulting a specialist like M & N France Fabric Awning if you want to install dome awnings for your premises in Selangor. As Malaysia’s commercial awning manufacturer, our team of well-trained technicians can design and install awnings efficiently to meet your requirements. For more information, contact 012-9891491 or visit our showroom here.