The 6 Types of Sunshades Perfect For Your Building

With the tropical climate of Singapore, it is obvious why houses, public, private and commercial buildings have sunshades installed to their windows and entrance. No wonder why roofing specialists in Singapore continue to bring new technology and visually pleasing sunshade to the market. 

There are several types of sunshade you can use for your building. It only boils down to the factors you will consider in buying. May it be the money, durability, or purpose. 

To help you in selecting the right sunshade for your building, here is the overview on the six types of fixed sunshades:

1. Aluminium Composite Panel Roofing

Roofing contractors in Singapore frequently install aluminium composite panel roofing in buildings around the city. Aluminium composite panel roofing is commonly used in modern buildings in Singapore. Aluminium composite panel roofing is made up of sheets of aluminium and a non-aluminium core making it durable yet still attractive and appealing to modern buildings

     Advantages

• Aluminium is cheaper and widely available in the market than other materials.
• The Aluminium Composite Panel Roofing is durable and lightweight.
• It has great weather resistance making it ideal as sunshades. 
• ACP is available in standard sizes in the market. It also comes in different colours.

     Disadvantages

• Prone to dents
• Prone to leaks

2. Canvas Canopy

Commercial buildings and cafes usually use canvas canopy for their properties. Canvas canopy is a fabric made sunshade ideal for people who want a cool and shady area. Since it is made of fabric, canvas canopy reduces heat it gets from the sun. Roofing contractors in Singapore offer tailor-made canvas canopy.

     Advantages

• Provides a comfortable amount of light compared to full sun outside
• Reduces temperature and provides cool shade
• Canvas canopy is lightweight and has less framework structure
• Visually pleasing, durable and flexible
• Inexpensive material

     Disadvantages

• May look sag and rough
• Difficult to clean

3. Glass Roofing

Many establishments choose glass roofing for its elegant look. Glass roofing uses non-breakable glass and wood or aluminium frames. It allows a gentle amount of sunlight in the house while protecting you from rain. Roofing specialists in Singapore have noticed an increase in demand for glass roofing.

     Advantages

• Allows sufficient daylight
• Elegant look
• Gives an illusion of enlarging the space
• Reduces noise

     Disadvantages

• High maintenance
• Prone to leaks
• Expensive

4. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is commonly used in buildings and homes. Many roofing contractors in Singapore use high strength steel, aluminium and copper as the main materials for the roofing. Metal roofing has become an alternative to asphalt shingles.

     Advantages

• Metal roofing is lightweight, extremely durable and can withstand damage. 
• It is fire and insect resistant
• Metal roofing is low maintenance and can last up to 20 years
• It reduces temperature
• Widely available in the market, and comes in different sizes, colours and styles

     Disadvantages

• Installation of metal roofing is expensive
• Noisier than other roofing
• Traps rising vapours and moisture inside 

5.) Polycarbonate Roofing

Polycarbonate roofing is commonly used in commercial and residential buildings in Singapore. It is made of polycarbonate sheet, a plastic material that can withstand extreme temperatures and UV rays. It has become a substitute for glass roofing. 

     Advantages

• Polycarbonate is highly durable and can withstand extreme damages. It is also long-lasting compared to glass. 
• It is lightweight and flexible making the cutting and transportation easier
• It is resistant to fire and UV rays
• Can withstand environmental changes
• It comes in different colours

     Disadvantages

• More expensive than other materials
• Prone to surface damage, scratches and dents
• It expands over time
• Requires specific cleaning solution
• Not eco-friendly

6. Trellis

Trellis is an open architectural framework that uses wood, metal bars, poles. It is commonly used as fences and vineyards. Today, trellis has been adopted as a style of roofing. Because of its chic style, it has been used on commercial buildings and pergolas. Roofing contractors in Singapore have also noticed the demand in trellis-style roofing

Trellis can use either glass or polycarbonate sheets as material for roofing. Its advantages and disadvantages will depend on the material used.

     Advantages

• Using both glass or polycarbonate sheet will allow an adequate amount of sunlight inside
• It gives an elegant and sophisticated look using either glass or polycarbonate sheets
• It is easy to install
• It gives an illusion of enlarging the space
• It also reduces noise

     Disadvantages

• Using glass or polycarbonate can be expensive
• Both glass and polycarbonate requires high maintenance
• Both materials are prone to surface damage and scratches

No matter what type of roofing you want for your sunshade and awning, Shadetimes is here for you. Singapore's leading roof specialist Shadetimes has been improving Singaporeans' outdoor relaxing experience with conventional and high-quality sunshade perfect for your patio, balcony or terrace.

Shadetimes is known to be collaborative and capable in executing your roofing projects giving you hands-on support through personalised service. Improve your look and comforts of your home with Shadetimes.