SkyScape Architectural Canopies Blog

If you are new to the world of metal canopy manufacture, you may be wondering whether roll formed or extruded aluminum fabrication would be best for your canopy system. Whether you are a contractor, architect, building manager or business owner, factors such as strength, material cost, and production time come into play — and may be of most concern to you.

The roll forming process uses a pair of rolls to fabricate the metal. Metal sheets are passed through the rolls several times until the desired shape or profile is achieved.

The extruded aluminum process produces components by pushing the metal through a die or mold of the desired cross-section.

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.

In a new or renovated commercial building, an architectural aluminum canopy fulfills important functions. It can serve as an eye-catching identifier, readily distinguishing the building even on the busiest, bustling city block. It also serves to provide shade and protect occupants, visitors and passers-by from rain, snow, and the hot summer sun.

But an architectural aluminum canopy’s most important role and function is the power it has to enhance the overall image of the retail or corporate brand presence — or else to conflict with and visually sabotage that brand identity. Which will it be? It all depends on good design.

In designing an architectural canopy, thought should be given the brand’s logo, colors, look and feel, etc., in addition to the building’s structural design. When form follows function, the public will begin associating a creatively designed canopy with the brand.

The good news is that architectural canopy solutions are limited only by the limits of creativity. Extruded aluminum canopy systems can create a signature design solution, with differentiation, personalization, enhanced function, and greater impact. And the extruded aluminum process — with its low tooling costs and fast turnaround times — is ideal for virtually any solution. A carefully designed canopy can become a strong signature feature that complements the company’s logo and signage, showcases the building entrance, and in general brings uniqueness, personalization, and enhanced value.

At SkyScape, we take pride in the level of design assistance we provide. We can configure an architectural canopy system based on most design concepts and size needs, load and engineering requirements. Plus, our wide selection of standard profiles, design options and finishes gives you the flexibility to enhance virtually any architectural aesthetic.