Awning Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does an awning last?
Today's fabrics are generally warranted for five years. With proper maintenance and care, they should last much longer. The exposure of your awning and care will greatly determine their life. Our aluminum frames are guaranteed for a lifetime.

What colors are available?
Today's fabrics come in more than 500 solid and striped colors! Visit the fabric section of our website for more information.

How do I keep my awning clean?
Regular maintenance generally means a once-a-year cleaning, with additional care if stains or soilage appears. Also, remember that your awning is an exterior product. In the same way you wouldn't leave your automobile outside without washing it for very long, you'll also need to clean your canvas awning to preserve and extend its good looks and service life. Click here for cleaning instructions.

Does the fabric color I choose affect how hot it is under my awning? Or, for that matter, how dark it will be shaded underneath?
Good question. Of course, the darker the color chosen, the darker the shade effect underneath will be. There are exceptions, however. Certain fabrics have a lighter-colored underneath side than the top-side color, which gives a more pleasing shading effect. As for the temperature, while color choice has some slight impact, the type of fabric chosen and the overall ventilation of the installation will have a greater effect.

Are awnings waterproof? Can I stay out under my awning in inclement weather?
Generally speaking, awning fabrics are water-repellent, not waterproof. There are exceptions, though, which may be practical in certain environments. The fabrics' water-repellent characteristics allow you to fully enjoy the space shaded by the awning during any weather conditions that aren't severe. In other words, if the weather is nice enough for you to be outside, then it is good enough for you to be out underneath your awning.

What are the support frames made from? How durable are they?
Metal support frames are made from either galvanized steel or aluminum and will last a lifetime! Regular maintenance on a frame requires an annual inspection of fasteners, connections and metal condition. Frames are also available with a painted finish for additional protection and attractiveness.

What should I look for in an awning professional?
You should seek out a certified Master Fabric Craftsman-the highest level of certification offered by the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) (IFAI is the worldwide trade association for the industrial-fabrics industry.) Beyond that, make sure that the firm you select is an active member of the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association. Lastly, ask for references of other similar work provided by the firm you are considering, along with a photographic portfolio of work the firm has done. Of course, if the firm has a showroom, pay a visit!

How long does it take to build once I place an order?
As with any custom-manufactured product, there is a short lead time for quality work to be accomplished. For canvas awnings, this can mean as little as three weeks. Of course, this varies depending on the time of the year (summer typically is the busiest part of the year), and it is not unusual for this lead time to run longer, especially in seasonal climates.

What kind of wind loads can a retractable awning handle?
Retractable awnings primarily are for sun protection and should not be left out in windy conditions. However, wind is a very unpredictable force, with a tendency to change direction and speed very quickly. In a wind-tunnel test, which is a very controlled environment, a retractable awning withstood straight-on wind forces at over 50 m.p.h. In "real-life" applications, the general rule of thumb is: If you are comfortable sitting outdoors dining or reading the paper, then it is probably safe to operate your awning. The concern with wind is the up-lifting effect on the awning rather than the downward force; therefore the greater the pitch, the more wind-resistant the unit is.

Why would I want my retractable awning motorized?
Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping a switch and watching your awning roll out on its own. Once fully extended or retracted, the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the retractable in any position with the wall-mounted switch. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit. Don't believe it? Consider how few times you would change the TV channel if you didn't have a remote control.

Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned about for my retractable awning?
Retractable awnings primarily are designed to provide protection from the sun's rays and not from rain. However, it can be used in drizzle or misting rains with proper unit pitch. In heavy or driving rains, the unit must be retracted to keep water from "pooling" on the fabric and causing damage or irreversible fabric stretching.

What does an average-sized retractable awning cost?
Because most retractable awnings are customized for each residence, prices cannot be given without verified measurements and on-site inspection. Your awning supplier typically can meet with you for a free, in-home consultation to design an awning that's right for you.

Will my awning give me water and weather protection?
Generally, however, today’s awning fabrics are considered water-repellent, not waterproof. Water-repellent awning and patio canopies will allow you to enjoy your deck or patio during most weather conditions that it is safe to be outside.

How can I find out if my product or idea can be made?
That's simple: Just fax or send a drawing or sketch to us and one of our design coordinators will contact you and help you pull the concept or product together along with costing.