4 Types of Industrial Aluminum Canopy Designs

There are countless variations of commercial and industrial aluminum canopy designs that can be applied to schools, retail outlets, warehouses, etc., but below are the four main variations of canopies:

1. Walkway Canopy

Walkway canopies usually cover an ADA-compliant pathway, which means they are typically wider than 5 feet. The maximum span for most aluminum walkway canopies is 12 feet, so a canopy post is required every 12 feet. Are you considering a walkway canopy? Read the 5 Essential Walkway Canopy Elements to Consider.

Common applications: schools, correctional facilities, churches, retail outlets

2. Entry Canopy

Entryway canopies are bolted to the building above the doorway or entryway and protrude out from the building. These canopies can be combined with a ramp and/or a set of stairs that lead away from the building. Entryway canopies can be designed to change elevation as the ramp and/or stairs change elevation.

Common applications: storefronts, schools, recreational facilities

3. Canopy Between Buildings

An industrial aluminum canopy can be located between two temporary, modular buildings that are close together, but they can connect permanent buildings as well.

Canopies are connected to the buildings using two methods: 1) The canopy can be bolted to the building’s outside walls, or 2) the canopy can be placed above the two buildings so that it has posts and overhangs the edges of the building and provides full coverage.

Common applications: classrooms, offices, storage facilities

4. Cantilever Canopy

Cantilever canopies are secured to the side of the building using a tie-rod or ‘support arm’ that angles upwards from the edge of the canopy. The primary reason for using cantilever canopies over another style of the canopy is to get rid of the canopy posts.

Common applications: warehouse loading dock zones, restaurant drive-thru windows, and commercial building entrances.

Buildings such as schools and hospitals often have a lot of foot traffic, and canopy designs in their walkways can provide several benefits.

First, canopies can protect from the elements, such as rain and sun, which is especially important for buildings like schools and hospitals where people may be outside for extended periods. This can make the walkways more comfortable and accessible for students, staff, patients, and visitors.

Second, canopy designs can provide additional security and privacy for buildings like schools and hospitals. They can create a barrier between the building and the outside, making it more difficult for outsiders to see into the building and potentially providing a sense of security.

Finally, canopy designs can also enhance the overall aesthetic of the building, making it more attractive and inviting. Establishments like schools and hospitals often offer community resources and services and must present an open-for-all image to the public.