Resemble traditional awnings except they rarely have fabric ends.
May be retracted by way of a manual crank or an electric motor.
May be equipped with a wind and sun sensor and will be automatically retracted or opened based on weather conditions.
Rely on a spring tensioned set of arms that hinge like scissors to extend or retract the fabric from a roller tube mounted on the building.
Are easy to install and provide relatively in expensive shade over a limited area.
Are susceptible to strong winds and rain because there is no support at the front of the awning. Lateral arm awnings must be retracted during bad weather.
The mechanisms are very durable and have few mechanical failures.
Very popular in Europe – due to Europes higher fuel costs people have chosen awnings over air-conditioning for shade and cooling.
Accent their architecture and are considered fashionable. Lateral arm popularity continues to increase in the United States.
