How long does it take an awning fabricator to manufacture and install an awning? Delivery time depends on your needs and the type of awning you purchase. Some suppliers can ship standard size awnings within days after the order is placed. Other awning fabricators, who supply custom designed awnings, might take 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.

How do I store my stationary awnings in the winter months? Can a fixed frame awning be dismantled for winter?
Many professional awning manufacturers offer removal and storage services for awnings and canopies. If you prefer to do this yourself, make sure to clean and dry your awnings before you store them. (visit the awning care page for details.) Give them a final brushing to remove all debris. Fold or roll the awnings, then cover and store them in a cool, dry place.For a fixed frame awning inform your Professional Awning Manufacturer of this requirement, so that the awning is designed for this purpose and the proper slip fittings are used. Many homeowners remove the fabric and leave the frame up over the winter.

Are awnings waterproof? Can I stay out under my awning in inclement weather?
Some awning fabrics are waterproof and some are water-repellent. Waterproof fabrics such as reinforced laminated vinyl provide protection from rain as well as sun protection. Woven fabrics that are water-repellent allow you to fully enjoy the space shaded by the awning during weather conditions that aren't severe, like during light passing showers or drizzle conditions. In other words, if the weather is nice enough for you to be outside, then it is good enough for you to be out beneath your awning.

Is there much difference between the various types of awning fabrics? Does an awning need to be fire retardant?

There are several basic types of awning fabrics: Woven, Coated, Laminated and Mesh.  Woven fabrics have a rich fabric appearance and offer a wide array of colors in solids, stripes and patterns.  These products are typically treated with a water repellant finish.  Coated or Laminated fabrics offer greater water repellency.  They are available in many solid colors and limited stripe patterns.  Mesh fabrics offer outward visibility and aesthetic appeal; typically available in solid colors. 

In residential applications not governed by local codes, the requirements to use a flame retardant fabric becomes a personal preference.  Flame retardant fabrics are available in a wide variety of colors and styles.  Consult your local PAMA professional for more details.

What colors are available and does the color affect how hot it is under my awning or how shaded the area will be? Today's fabrics come in more than 500 solid and striped colors! Remember, too, that most of the time you are enjoying your awning you are relaxing underneath it (not outside looking at it), so the underside color is probably the one you will see more often. 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.The darker the color chosen, the darker the shade effect underneath will be. There are exceptions, however. Some fabrics have a lighter-colored under-side than the top-side color, which gives a more pleasing shading effect.

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

Does my awning come with a warranty? In many cases, awning fabrics are warranted for a period of 5 years or more, in proportion (pro-rata) to the useful life of the fabric. Other warranties regarding the frame and workmanship may apply and vary by job and by state. Contact a Professional Awning Manufacturer (see store locator at top of page) for more details pertaining to your particular project.

Do I need a building permit for an awning? Are awnings allowed in developments governed by associations? Because canvas awnings are colorful, attractive, energy-saving design features, most homeowners' associations are receptive to adding them to the exterior decor of a building. Typically, the association's architectural committee reviews these questions. Many developments work with a local awning professional so that the awning styles and colors are consistent throughout the development. A building permit is not needed for most residential awnings, and is required for most commercial uses.