First, let’s determine the difference between these three types of sunlight covers:
An awning is a canvas covering extending from your home to screen the area below a window or door. You can purchase retractable awnings that store away with the click of a button when you aren’t using the space.
A canopy is similar to an awning, but this design rests on top of columns and doesn’t attach to the house. A canopy can extend further than an awning because it has a support structure.
A pergola is usually not connected to the house, either. It is a structure with columns supporting a “roof” that’s actually a grid of rafters or beams. You can drape a cover over the pergola for greater protection from the sun, or you can also use it as a place to grow vines or other plants.