Open Ends or Closed Ends? How to Choose a Standing Seam Awning by Window Direction and Climate
Quick answer: Choose closed ends (our S-Series) when the awning faces west or takes wind-driven rain, because enclosed sides block low-angle sun and rain from the sides. Choose open ends (our O-Series) for humid climates, wide windows and a lighter look, because open sides let heat and moisture escape from underneath. Both are standing seam awnings on the same welded aluminum frame, powder coated on the top and underside.
The end style is the one real choice between our two standing seam awnings. It changes how the awning looks from the side, how much sun it blocks, and how it breathes. Here's how to decide for each window and door.
Open vs. closed ends at a glance
| O-Series (open ends) | S-Series (closed ends) | |
|---|---|---|
| Side sun | Low morning and evening sun can slip in at the sides | Blocks low-angle sun from the sides |
| Wind-driven rain | Some rain can blow in at the sides | Sheds driving rain better |
| Airflow | Heat and humidity vent out from underneath | Less ventilation under the awning |
| Look | Lighter; shows the standing seam profile | Boxed-in, finished, built-in |
| Starting price (44") | $1,375 | $1,558 |
Decide by which way the window faces
- West-facing: Afternoon sun comes in low and hot. Closed ends (S-Series) cut the side glare that slips around an open awning.
- East-facing: Morning sun is low but milder. Either works; closed ends if you want the most shade early in the day.
- South-facing: The sun is high for much of the day, so the roof does most of the work. Open ends (O-Series) usually shade well and stay cooler underneath.
- North-facing: Little direct sun. Pick on looks and rain protection; open ends are often enough.
Decide by climate
- Hot and humid (Gulf Coast, Florida, Southeast): Open ends let warm, damp air escape instead of collecting under the awning. That's the O-Series' biggest advantage.
- Stormy or exposed: Where rain blows sideways, such as an unsheltered entry or a coastal facade, closed ends keep more of it off the door and window.
- Dry and sunny: Side sun is the main issue, so closed ends often win on west and east walls.
Decide by the opening
- Wide windows: On a long span, the sides matter less to total shade and venting matters more. The O-Series is a strong fit.
- Front doors: If the entry faces west or takes storms, choose the S-Series. For a sheltered entry, the O-Series is lighter and costs less. See our front door sizing guide.
- Storefronts: Closed ends give the finished, built-in look many brands want; open ends suit modern, minimal facades.
What stays the same either way
- Welded aluminum frame. Cut and welded in our Tampa shop into one rigid piece, with no bolted joints to loosen, and aluminum won't rust.
- Powder coated top and underside. Every Galvalume panel is coated on both sides, plus the full frame and brackets. On open-end awnings the underside is on display, so this matters even more.
- Integrated flashing where the awning meets the wall.
- Sizes: standard widths from 44" to 104", 24" or 36" projection at the same price, and custom sizes built to order.
Frequently asked questions
Are closed-end awnings better than open-end awnings?
Neither is better everywhere. Closed ends block more side sun and wind-driven rain; open ends vent heat and humidity and look lighter. Match the end style to the window direction and your climate.
Which awning is best for a west-facing window?
A closed-end awning, like our S-Series, because low afternoon sun comes in from the side where an open-end awning leaves a gap.
Do open-end awnings trap less heat?
Yes. Open sides let warm air rise and escape instead of collecting under the awning, which is why we recommend the O-Series for humid climates.
Can I mix open and closed ends on one house?
Yes. Many homeowners use closed ends on west-facing windows and open ends elsewhere. Match the finish color and they read as one set.
How much more do closed ends cost?
At standard sizes, the S-Series runs about 13% more than the O-Series: $1,558 vs. $1,375 at 44" wide, up to $3,683 vs. $3,250 at 104". See the full breakdown in How Much Do Standing Seam Awnings Cost?
Still deciding?
Tell us which way the window or door faces and your ZIP code, and we'll recommend an end style. Call 1-800-AWNINGS (296-4647), request a quote, or configure the O-Series or S-Series.
Written by Corey Courtright | 1800Awnings.com | Tampa, FL
Written by Corey Courtright
Second-Generation Awning Manufacturer & Industry Expert
Corey Courtright is a second-generation awning manufacturer and a recognized innovator in aluminum TIG-welded structures within the awning industry. With over 38 years of hands-on experience, he has worked across every facet of the business—from fabrication and sewing to welding, installation, sales, and service—giving him a rare, comprehensive understanding of the craft. Starting his career as a pipe threader, Corey went on to build and lead multiple successful awning companies. Now based in Florida since 2016, he brings deep technical expertise, proven leadership, and a legacy of innovation to every project and insight he shares.