Copper awnings are usually used to cover and protect windows of old classical stone buildings. Copper awnings are usually custom-made to suit the actual window and door dimensions and configurations, such as single leaf, multiple-leaf, and maximum opening clearance.
The advantages of a decorative copper awning are multifold. Once polished and installed in place, they require much less upkeep compared to other types of awnings. This is because they are made from a single ribbed copper sheet firmly bolted into the walls and has no moving parts. With time, copper weathers to a warm, rich patina and looks better and better. Copper awnings come in various widths, ranging from 4 feet to 7 feet. Each window awning is usually around 32 to mount at a 5-inch on 12-inch slope, which is approximately 65 degrees. Door awnings are configured with similar slopes but may require more width from front to back to allow full opening of the door.
Copper awnings are made of thick copper sheets, which are machine-formed into panels of the desired dimensions, with standing seams. Each frame has to be carefully assembled with copper edging and retaining clips onto which the copper panels are crimped so as to make the entire structure water tight, strong and essentially indestructible. Larger sized copper awnings may come with a copper roofing frame with forged iron scrolls for end supports. The iron frames and scroll ends are usually primed with a two part industrial metal sealer / primer to prevent rusting and finished coated with high-gloss, two-part acrylic enamel paint. The interface at the roof and wall is sealed with caulking compound to make it leak- proof.
For doorways and windows of old masonry buildings exposed to the damaging effects of sun and rain, copper awnings can prove to be both elegant showpiece and a great protection.