FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What do I do if the fabric on my awning gets soiled?
A: Fabric gets dirty; it's a fact of life. The material can be washed off easily and is suggested annually. We recommend that you use mild cleaners, if required. Don't forget to let the fabric dry before retracting the awning.

Q: Can I use a retractable awning for both sun and rain?
A: Yes, the awning can be used in light rain provided there is enough slope for the water to run off. Anything less will lead to water pooling on top of the fabric, therefore potentially damaging the awning's frame or fabric.

Q: What is the maximum width of a retractable awning?
A: As the width of an awning increases, additional lateral support arms are introduced. We are able to manufacture retractable awnings up to 26 feet in width.

Q: Are retractable awnings sold in standard sizes?
A: The arms (which determine projection from the wall) come in standard sizes, but the width is custom, specified down to the nearest inch.

Q: Is the fabric waterproof?
A: No, but it is water-resistant. That means that the fabric will not let water through freely, but it will get wet. In that case, it is best to let it dry out for a couple of hours before retracting the awning. On the other hand, it is safe to roll up a wet awning for one or two nights, if bad weather persists.

Q: Should I roll up my awning during strong winds? And how strong is too strong?
A: Yes, you should retract an awning during strong winds. All of our retractable awnings are designed to withstand sufficient wind loads and flex to absorb wind. This means you don't have to leave yourself without sun protection on breezy days. As a rule of thumb, you know you should retract the awning when the wind is so strong that you do not feel comfortable being outside. Assist braces are available for those predominantly windy areas such as lake front cottages and homes backing onto open expanses of land.

Q: Can I use a retractable awning during snowfall?
A: Not really. A few snowflakes will not harm the awning, but unlike rain, snow will accumulate on top of the fabric until the weight becomes too heavy for the awning to support. Awnings can be used in the winter on blue sky days.

Q: Can I adjust the slope of my awning after installation?
A: Yes. The slope of the awning can always be altered. In the case of our classic awning with pitch control, it can easily be adjusted with the use of a hand crank. Awnings without pitch control require a few common tools and possibly a stepladder. Contact our office and we would be glad to send out one of our highly qualified service technicians.

Q: I would like to get a retractable awning, but I have trouble seeing how one could possibly fit onto the place where I want it. Is there a way for me to tell one way or the other?
A: There are many different ways to install an awning, and we have over 26 years of experience. We will ask you specific questions to figure out how the awning can be installed. With our own fabrication shop, installation possibilities are almost endless.

If you have any questions not answered herein, please Contact Us. We offer free estimates. Book an appointment today.