Common Awning Questions Answered
Q :: Does the fabric colour I choose affect how hot it is under my awning or, how dark will the shade be underneath the blind?
A :: Of course, the darker the colour chosen, the darker the shade effect underneath will be. As for the temperature, while colour choice has some slight impact, the type of fabric chosen and the overall ventilation of the installation will have a greater effect.
Q :: 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.
Q :: What should I do with my retractable awning in the Winter?
A :: When referring to cassette blinds, by design, the awning is self-storing when retracted. Many owners of the standard retractable awnings remove the loose hanging valance for winter storage, while others do nothing more than keep the unit retracted and unhook the winding handle. And some owners use their retractable awnings all year long!
Q :: Can a retractable awning handle high winds?
A :: 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.
Q :: Why choose a motorized retractable awning?
A :: Nothing could be more convenient than simply pushing a button 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 blind in any position with the wall-mounted switch or remote control. 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.
Q :: Will my awning give me water and weather protection?
A :: Generally, however, today’s awning fabrics are considered water-repellent, not waterproof. Water-repellent awning and patio canopies will allow you to enjoy your patio or terrace during most weather conditions that it is safe to be outside.
Q :: Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned about for my retractable awning?
A :: 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.
Q :: I have purchased a manual awning. Can I convert it to a motorised blind?
A :: Yes, you can. Most of our awnings can be converted to a motorized blind. Just contact us and we will give you a free quotation and explain the various options.
Q :: What kind of fabrics are available and is there a large choice of colours?
A :: We offer a large selection of fabric options. More popular fabrics are manufactured by Sauleda, Sattler, Dickson, Recasens, Soltis and much more. These fabric are available in a variety of colours in both solids and stripes. We are sure to have the fabric available to suit your needs and tastes.
If you have any other awning questions, or a question about blinds then contact us here
