INSTALLATION TIME

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.

AWNING STORAGE

How do I store my stationary awnings in the winter months?
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.

AWNING CARE

How do I keep my awning clean?
Click here for the AWNING CARE SECTION.

WEATHER

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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 in addition to 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.

What colors are available?
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. With so many colors to choose from you are bound to find several that will enhance the look of your home, deck or patio.

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. Again, your awning professional is well qualified to assist you in this aspect of the awning design.

Is there much difference between the various types of awning fabrics?
Yes, different fibers, weaves and coatings have very specific advantages. Some fabrics are breathable, some are not. Woven acrylic fabrics are water-repellent and have a rich cloth appearance and are much more colorfast and fade resistant. Vinyl-coated fabrics and reinforced laminated vinyl fabrics are, for the most part, waterproof. Mesh fabrics allow better ventilation and outward visibility. Your awning supplier will help you make the best selection.

Does an awning need to be fire retardant?
In residential applications not governed by local codes, the requirement to use a flame retardant fabric becomes a personal preference. Flame retardant fabrics are available in a wide variety of colors and styles.

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 (click here for our store locator) for more details pertaining to your particular project.

AWNING FRAMES

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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.

If I purchase a fixed frame awning, can the frame be dismantled for the winter months?
Yes it can. However, it's important that you inform your Professional Awning Manufacturer (click here for our store locator) 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.

PROTECTION FROM THE SUN

Will my awning protect me from the sun's harmful rays?
Not only does an awning protect you from the sun, but it also protects you from other natural elements, such as rain and snow. In certain configurations, awnings can also protect you from wind. As in many shade options, the amount of protection from the sun's harmful ultra violet rays is determined by the type of fabric. Your Professional Awning Manufacturer can help you meet your requirements, through the proper fabric selection.

Will awnings protect my furniture from fading?
Awnings, just as interior window covering products, protect furniture, floors and carpets from fading caused by harsh sun rays. However, unlike interior products, awnings give the added benefit of energy savings by reducing the solar radiation through glass windows and doors.

REGULATIONS

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I live in a development governed by a homeowners' association. Are awnings allowed there?
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.

Do I need a building permit for an awning?
A building permit is not needed for most residential awnings, and is required for most commercial uses. Your awning professional is very knowledgeable about when and where permits are required.

RETRACTABLE AWNINGS

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When there are no poles, what supports the unit? 
Some retractable awnings have been designed to be self-supporting. Other models have supporting poles that retract against the wall when not in use. When support poles are not used, the awning relies on secure mounting in conjunction with spring-loaded arms. The arm tension is created with internal springs, and large radius elbows keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.

When do I need a protective hood or cover?
Protective hoods and covers, available at an additional cost, have been designed to provide adequate unit protection when structural protection is not available. Hoods often are purchased when the retractable awning is being roof or fascia-mounted and when not located directly under a soffit or overhang.

What does an average-sized retractable awning cost?
Because retractable awnings come in a variety of models,fabrics and sizes, prices vary and can fit any budget. You may be able to obtain a price list for standard size units from some awning manufacturers. If you are looking for a custom design, contact a Professional Awning Manufacturer (click here for our store locator) to verify measurements and make an on-site inspection. An awning manufacturer will typically meet with you for a free in-home consultation and recommend an awning that's right for you.

What kind of wind loads can a retractable awning handle?
Retractable awnings are primarily 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 controlled environment, a retractable awning withstood straight-on wind forces at over 50 mph. 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.

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

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 awning in any position by flipping a wall-mounted switch or pushing a button on a remote. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit.

AWNING & CANOPY DEFINITIONS

These definitions have been approved by the Industrial Fabrics Association International:

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Awning
An architectural fabric projection that provides weather protection, identity or decoration and is wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is comprised of a lightweight frame structure over which a cover attached.

Canopy
An architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity or decoration; and is supported by the building to which it is attached and at the outer end by not less than one stanchion. A canopy is comprised of a lightweight frame structure over which a cover is attached.

Retractable Awning
A moveable awning that rolls or folds against a building or other structure by which it is entirely supported.