I'm having trouble envisioning how my Awning might look. Can you help?

Absolutely! Very often we take photos when we make our initial, Free-of-Charge visit. Then we go back and super-impose Awning examples onto those pictures. That way you can actually see how lovely our Awnings and Canopies would look on your home or business.

How do I measure for my Awning?

The dimensions that are used to fabricate Awnings are Drop (Height), Projection (from the home to the end of the awning) and Width. All of the dimensions are adjustable, typically in one inch increments. A standard Retractable Awning, for example, requires 8.5 to 10 inches of height to mount, depending on the options you select. We do have specialty retractable units that can mount in as little as 6 inches of space or have special projections. We always offer an appointment to properly measure the space for your awning(s), to discuss your wants and needs, and to give you our best recommendations along with a cost estimate and timeline. In addition, we have downloadable Measuring Instructions.

What if I don't have enough space to mount a retractable awning on my wall?

All of our Retractable Awnings can be attached to roofs as well as walls. Instead of attaching to the studs in your wall, specialty brackets are used to attach it to your truss system on your roof. All of the attachment points are sealed so that mounting your Awning is no different than attaching a satellite dish to your roof. Take a look at our photo gallery to see homes where owners have chosen roof mounted systems.

Is there much difference between the various types of Awning fabrics?

Yes, and again, we can help you choose. For example, Acrylics are more colorfast and fade resistant. Vinyls are more water repellant. Mesh fabrics are more ventilated and see-through.  Some Sunbrella fabrics protect best against harmful UV sunrays. Depending on the location of your Awning or Canopy, its purpose and use and your budget, we can help you select an Awning fabric that will meet your needs.

I think I may want awnings for my windows and doors, but how do I know which style to choose or which materials? Do I want aluminum? Fabric?

Don’t worry. Because we’ve been in this business since 1890, we know a little bit about awnings and can help you select just the right ones. We will come out to your home or business – free of charge – discuss your wants and needs, take measurements, and give you our best recommendations along with a cost estimate and timeline.

Does the awning color I choose affect how well my awning cools or shades?

The construction of the fabrics we use is such that they are designed to reflect the heat from the sun’s rays. Choosing a darker color versus a lighter color really only affects the amount of ambient light allowed underneath the awning.

Will my awning hold up in the wind?

Our retractable awnings are of the highest quality and are installed professionally, so yours should do just fine during summer breezes. We even offer a line that comes with a wind rating, as well as a line with vertical supports. Plus, if the winds pick up and become gusty, you can retract your awning within seconds. However, if you live in a location where heavy winds occur constantly, you may want to consider one of our aluminum canopies made to withstand harsher weather conditions, or possibly a fixed-frame awning that can be taken down during the winter and stored, something we do for many customers.

Will my awning provide protection from the rain?

Retractable awnings are designed to provide shade from the sun. Most of the awning fabrics used for our retractable awnings are also water repellent, but not waterproof. In a gentle mist or drizzle, they hold up well and can be pitched to shed water. If the weather becomes severe, your awning can simply be retracted at the touch of a button. If you are looking for an awning that will give you greater protection, you will want to consider one of our Dura-Bilt canopies or a fabric canopy that laces onto a pipe or aluminum framework. These can be structured over or around your deck, porch or patio, can include screens and shades and are designed for three-season enjoyment.

What holds a retractable awning up?

Most retractable awnings are self-supporting, held in place with secure mountings, and feature spring-loaded arms. The arm tension is created with internal springs, and large radius elbows keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.

Why would I want my retractable awning motorized?

Because they are so convenient and easy to use! With a motorized retractable awning, you can flip a wall switch and watch your awning extend all on its own in a matter of seconds. Or you can use your remote and never leave your recliner. Do we offer retractable awnings that aren’t motorized? You bet. But research has shown that a motorized awning tends to be used four times more than a manual unit.

Can I apply graphics to my awning?

Yes, in fact, we can do professional design and graphics application for you, and we highly recommend it to our business customers. Applying graphics directly to awning fabrics provides identification and/or advertisement without the need for add-on sign structures.

Does my retractable awning come with a warranty?

Absolutely! Our warranties are excellent and are anywhere from 5 to 10 years or longer. Plus, we guarantee our work.

What should be done with a retractable awning in the winter?

By design, a retractable awning is self-storing, although some owners choose to protect them with covers.

What if my awning gets dirty? Can it be cleaned?

Absolutely, awnings can be cleaned. Click here for full awning cleaning instructions.

Can I get my new boat cover made in a week?

Typically, you can drop your boat off on Monday and pick it up on Friday. However, that’s assuming we’re not backlogged. It’s best to always call in advance, and we encourage you to book early during peak seasons.

How do I clean my boat cover or boat canvas?

Just rinse your boat cover or boat canvas after each use with clean water. This will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Then once a month or so, depending on use, give it a thorough cleaning with mild detergent. We sell products specifically to help you clean your boat canvas, or if you prefer, we can handle all the cleaning for you.

How do I prevent mold and mildew?

The fabrics we use are resistant to the growth of mildew, but dirt on the fabric will. That’s why regular cleaning as described above is important. 

Should your retractable awning fabric get wet, we recommend opening your awning as soon as possible to allow the fabric to dry to help prevent mold/mildew growth.

How often should I clean my boat cover or boat canvas?

Rinse your boat cover or boat canvas after each use with clean water. This will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Then once a month or so, depending on use, give it a thorough cleaning with mild detergent.

Why are the arms bent on retractable awnings?

The bent arms give a natural flex moving the awning in and out, just in the same in and out movement when the product is operating. Wind tends to push the awning down and towards the house and this force is easily accommodated by the awning due to the natural flex in the bent arms.

Why is the pitch of the awning important?

A typical pitch is set two to three inches per foot of awning projection. Setting a good pitch positions the awning in a manner that will help resist the force of a quick, strong gust that pushes the awning upward.

Why is a retractable awning a better option than a deck umbrella?

Retractable awnings provide more shade than a table umbrella, they can extend out to shade doors and windows and you have the option of controlling the amount of shade based on how far out you extend your awning.  Retractable awnings are attached to your wall or roof, providing a secure mounting point.  Unlike umbrellas, you’ll never have to wonder where your awning is after a big storm.

Can I get a retractable awning with or without a motor?

Our retractable awnings can be purchased with either operation: manually using a hand crank or with a motor using a remote.  To power a motorized unit we would need a standard outdoor outlet for the power cord to plug into.  This allows you to use your remote from your deck or inside your home.