Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the life of an awning?
Today’s fabrics are generally warranted for 8-10 years. With proper maintenance and care, they should last much longer. The exposure of your awning and care will greatly determine their life. Our aluminum frames are guaranteed for a lifetime. More Info
What colors are available?
Today’s fabrics come in more than 500 solid and striped colors! Visit the fabric section of our website for more information and links to sample cards.
How do I keep my awning clean?
Regular maintenance generally means a twice-a-year cleaning, with additional care if stains appear. Also, remember that your awning is an exterior product. In the same way you wouldn’t leave your automobile outside without washing it for very long, you’ll also need to clean your canvas awning to preserve and extend its good looks and service life. Please visit the cleaning section for detailed information.
Does the fabric color I choose affect how hot it is under my awning?
As a rule of thumb, the darker the color chosen, the darker the shade effect underneath will be. However, there are exceptions. 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 area of installation will have more of an effect.
Are awnings waterproof? Can I stay out under my awning in inclement weather?
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, generally speaking, it is good enough for you to be out underneath your awning.
What are the support frames made from? How durable are they?
Metal support frames are made from either galvanized steel or aluminum and will last a lifetime! Regular maintenance on a frame requires an annual inspection of fasteners, connections and metal condition. Frames are also available with a painted finish for additional protection and attractiveness. Powder-Coating is also available.
How long does it take to build once I place an order?
As with any custom-manufactured product, there is a short lead time for quality work to be accomplished. In addition, the number of awnings ordered will help determine how quickly we can build and install your order. For some canvas awnings, this can mean as little as three weeks. Of course, this lead time varies depending on the time of the year and other client orders being designed and constructed.
What should be done with a retractable awning in the winter?
By design, the awning is self-storing when retracted. Many owners of retractable awnings remove the loose hanging valance for winter storage, while others do nothing more than keep the unit retracted and bring the crank handle in. Of course if the weather permits you could use your retractable all year long!
Why would I want my retractable awning motorized?
Like many things, the push of a button is easy!!! Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping your awning switch and watching it roll out on its own. Once fully extended or retracted, the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the retractable in any position with the wall-mounted switch. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit.
Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned about for my retractable awning?
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.
What does an average-sized retractable awning cost?
Most retractable awnings are customized for each job so prices cannot be given without verified measurements. Please call us with some general measurements and we can give you a price range.
How can I find out if my product or idea can be made?
We can be pretty creative! Just submit a drawing or sketch to us and a digital photo of the area where you want to put your awning. We will contact you and help you pull the concept or product together along with price information.
Will I need a Permit?
Permitting depends on the location for your install. There are standards within historical districts, certain codes and regulations apply to some condominium communities and if Graphics are involved the square footage may be taken into consideration. Check out The City Of Knoxville site for more information. Brochure information.
