Somfy Remote-Controlled Motors

How would you like to be able to control your retractable awning with a touch of a button? A remote controlled motor is easy to install and has a warranty for 5 years. The built-in radio receiver has a range of up to 90 feet, and the overall mechanism is plugged into a conventional electrical outlet. Since the body of the motor fits inside the frame of the awning, it does not take up any additional space.

Motors Options:

	Sun and wind sensors The sun sensors automatically extend the awning when the sun comes out. The wind sensor automatically retracts the awning when the wind get strong (this saves a lot of wear and tear on the awning). For more details click on this page for how these sensors work.
	Manual override Power outages happen. Not being able to use your motorized awning because your power is out is inconvenient. Having a manual override allows you extend and retract your motorized awning with the use of a conventional crank.
	Outdoor plug-in system This system allows a motor to be installed without the help of an electrician. The outdoor plug in system is equipped with a switch and a conventional plug. No hard wiring is required.

Protective Hood

This optional hood is suggested for most wall and roof installations (ceiling and rafter installation do not need it). By protecting the roll of fabric from the elements, a protective hood helps to keep your awning looking brand new. It also includes a specially designed weather strip at the back, which closes the gap between the hood and wall, thus eliminating the need for caulking.

Roof, Rafter, and Extra Brackets

The ideal mounting surface for a retractable awning is a flat brick wall. The number of installation brackets that come with your awning is determined by the width of the awning. If you would like to mount an awning on a weaker surface, the weight of the awning will need to be spread across the installation surface evenly. Extra installation brackets might be required. These are available upon request.

In other cases, a retractable awning can not be installed on a wall. If the awning has to be installed on the roof, special angled brackets must be used. If an awning is installed below a set of rafters that support a roof, rafter brackets (available in four different sizes) are used to make a strong connection at the right angle.

Spring-Assist

Retractable awnings have powerful springs in the folding arms to keep the fabric taut at all times. As a consequence, the first turn or two when retracting a fully extended awning requires a certain amount of physical force when using a crank. For larger awnings this could be a problem, so a spring-assist mechanism is suggested to aid you in retracting your awning. The spring assist option can be added to any size awning upon request.

Fabric Options

Retractable awnings allow you to expand your living space. You can jazz up your new awning by using screens, extended valances, and side curtains. They are removable or retractable, and offer both lateral sun protection (especially for western exposures in the late afternoon) and add privacy. The use of screens instead of acrylic fabric slightly reduces sun protection, but allows you to have visibility through the screen

Fabric side curtains are custom fit to your awning, and extended valances come in lengths of 31", 45" and 64". They can be quickly added to the awning using hooks or velcro. Screens can only be added to the front of an awning. For more information on these products, please contact us.