Frequently Asked Questions
Please take a few minutes to look through some of our most commonly asked questions and their answers.
In our industry today, the terms are somewhat interchangeable, dependent upon the project type and/or region of the U.S. that you are in. But the easiest definition is - a canopy is typically an all-metal, flat structure and an awning has slope or pitch to it and is usually covered with fabric or metal components.
While our canopies are fabricated from heavy gauge, extruded aluminum, the overall weight of the finished products vary due to the size of the individual components. But, our most typical canopy size of 20 foot length x 5 foot projection, on average weighs less than 300 lbs. , installed.
The short answer- not necessarily. The canopy products are very comparable in the final SF price, but after you ADD the field labor to assemble the bolt together product and then install it, the factory fabricated canopy typically ends up costing less. Not to mention it’s stronger and looks better too.
Most canopies can be unloaded by 2-4 people (Depending on size) at the delivery site. You should not need any special equipment or even a fork-lift in most cases.
Roll forming is a faster process that uses less material, which can make it more cost-efficient for very large projects. On the other hand, the roll-forming dies and setup are more complex, more intricate, and thus more expensive.
Most industry experts agree that there are clear advantages to extruded aluminum. For one thing, the dies used in the extruded aluminum process involve a single piece of metal that is simple to fabricate and thus less costly than a roll formed die. The extruded aluminum process also allows the flexibility of adding slots and other openings during production; in roll forming, an additional post-process is required - which adds to the production time and cost.
Powder coating is the best paint finish for any canopy, and the one we use, as it is the most durable type of finish available. Powder coating and PVDF (Kynar) are the two most prevalent finishes used in our industry today. Both are exterior coatings for aluminum products.
Warranties are available for both finishes.
There are several factors that influence our fabrication and shipping schedules, typical fabrication and delivery time is approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
The advantages of a fully-welded, extruded aluminum canopy from SKYSCAPE® are they arrive on site ready to install, with the exception for a few accessory items (i.e. hanger rods, wall plates), unlike some other products on the market that must be assembled or put together on the job site, before installation can take place.
Yes, we do. And because our shipped, ready-to-install products, our typical installation instructions only consist of a few simple steps.
Our canopy support types include Hanger-Supported, Post-Supported, and Cantilevered (meaning secured with the blocking for the building and proper fasteners only). We work with you to find the ideal function, style, and design for your project.
While each canopy is unique in design and functionality, the typical SKYSCAPE® Canopy may project approximately five feet, before additional support is required.
The short answer - no, not really. Although there may not be actual size limitations for our canopies, other factors come into play in designing and fabricating our products. (i.e. support types, loading, etc.)
We are happy to help. As a matter of fact, our website offers both a spec builder to create the correct specifications for your project, and typical canopy details are available for our numerous canopy styles.
Yes, we do. It is provided through a third-party P.E. (with a nominal fee associated).
Yes, we are. Both in person & online presentations are available. Please see our Continuing Education Tab on our website.
SKYSCAPE® is proud to offer canopies designed and fabricated to fit your specific needs.
Yes, we ship our products nationwide via several logistics partners.
SKYSCAPE® is solely a manufacturer, shipping our products nationwide. However, within the southeast, we can provide installation assistance through our sister company, Awnings Above- based out of Atlanta, Georgia.
Yes, SKYSCAPE® products can be installed on commercial, as well as residential, properties.
We currently sell directly to various sources: subcontractors, general contractors, building owners, distributors, and others.
Our canopies are typically manufactured with an internal gutter system that utilizes scupper(s) or downspout(s), depending upon the design and function of your project.
With these types of drainage, there are several options available.