Window Graphics And Commercial Awnings: 3 Surprising Things They Have In Common

Most people wouldn’t assume that window graphics and commercial awnings are all that much alike. After all, awnings are an extension of the exterior or your store or building, whereas window graphics are something business owners use to jazz up their store or vehicles.

But when you stop to consider the “why” – the specific reasons to use commercial awnings and window graphics – it’s easy to see how much they have in common.

Both window graphics and commercial awnings provide shade.

Commercial awnings were originally invented hundreds of years ago to provide shade from the hot sun, to keep both shoppers and wares cooler. Of course commercial awnings also protect pedestrians from rain and snow, if they’re used year round. And while they’re doing that, they also keep the sun off valuable merchandise or furnishings inside your windows, preventing the kind of damage that comes from exposure to ultraviolet light.

But did you know window graphics can do that, too? They can’t do much to keep pedestrians dry in inclement weather, but thanks to the wonders of modern technology, window films and custom-designed roll-down blinds can be made of special mesh fabrics that shade people and things inside – without blocking your view to the outdoors or the natural light.

And here’s something even better – even though you can see out, that special fabric keeps people from seeing in through your windows. That means your window graphics can provide privacy as well as shade. Great news, if you work in a street-level office.

Both window graphics and commercial awnings promote your business.

Business owners discovered a long time ago that commercial awnings can do much more than provide shade. Rather than simply installing a solid color or striped fabric that looks just like every other business, smart entrepreneurs have taken to displaying their name, address or logo on their commercial awnings.

That makes it easier for people to distinguish your place from neighboring businesses, whether potential customers are on foot or driving down the street or navigating their way around a maze-like mall. Commercial awnings can draw attention to your place of business, give your entrance an eye-catching and welcoming look, and make that all-important first impression on potential customers.

Window graphics can do that, too. That one-way fabric that provides both shade and privacy has yet another valuable feature. Because people on the outside only see the window film or roll-down blinds, you can use them to advertise or beautify your business to passersby, just like your awnings do. You can print virtually any image you like, using window graphics in much the same way you use banners or flags.

Like awnings, window graphics make it easier for people to find and identify your place of business, but window graphics can promote your specific products and services as well.

Both window graphics and commercial awnings are amazingly versatile.

Shade, privacy, identity, promotional value – there aren’t many business investments you can make that cover all those bases. Except commercial awnings and window graphics. But these outstanding visual tools can do even more.

Commercial awnings and customized window treatments give your business a distinctive look. And they’re the perfect complement to one another. Awnings are mounted above eye level – over your windows and entrance, even over upper story windows if you have them. Their job is to tell your story from a “long distance” point of view – down the street or across the parking lot.

Window graphics, on the other hand, tell your story at eye level, to people who are underneath your awning and can’t see it. These graphics draw immediate attention to your business, encouraging potential customers to come in and see for themselves.

When you use window graphics and commercial awnings together, you more than double their power to help your business or building or entire complex get found and attract more customers.

Commercial Awnings