Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a retractable awning for both sun and rain?
A: Yes, provided that the slope of the awning is at least 15 degrees below the horizontal (20 degrees if the projection is more than 11' 8"). Anything less will lead to water pooling on top of the fabric, therefore causing the fabric to become deformed.
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 (2 to 3 hours after a full soaking) before retracting the awning. However, it is safe to roll up a wet awning for one or two nights, if bad weather persists.
Q: Can I use a retractable awning during snowfall?
A: Not really. A few snowflakes will not do anything, but unlike rain, snow will accumulate on top of the fabric until the fabric begins to deform.
Q: Should I roll up my awning during strong winds? And how strong is strong?
A: Yes, you should retract an awning during strong winds. But that does not mean that you have to leave yourself without sun shelter: 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.
Q: Can I adjust the slope of my awning after installation?
A: Yes. The method by which you do it depends on the model. The Adalia X3M Plus™ and Tilt-O-Shade™ models let you adjust the slope using the same crank you use to extend and retract the awning. Other models will require a few common tools (and a step ladder if needed) for the adjustment.
Q: I would like my retractable awning to be used by someone who can’t easily operate the conventional crank. What can I do?
A: The easiest remedy is having the awning with a remote-controlled motor. The awning can then be fully operated with a three-button (extend, retract, stop) remote control.
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 tell one way or the other?
A: Call or email us. There are many different ways to install an awning, and we have over 20 years of experience in figuring out the best way to do it. We will ask you specific questions to figure out how the awning can be installed. If you have a digital camera, you can make things even easier by taking pictures of the location and emailing them to us.
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. We recommend that you use mild cleaners, if cleaners are necessary. Don't forget to let the fabric dry before retracting it.
Q: What is the maximum width of a retractable awning?
A: The only limit is in the dimensions of your building. By fitting more than two arms, we can make awnings that are well over 20 feet wide.
Q: Do retractable awnings come in standard sizes?
A: The arms (which determine projection from the wall) do, but the width is custom-specified down to the nearest inch.
Q: Some of the models of retractable awnings on your Products page look very similar. What’s the difference?
A: The difference between most of the conventional retractable awnings is functional. For example, only the Adalia X3M Extenda™ will give you an awning that is longer than its width, only the Physique XL™ uses 13-foot-long arms, and only the Tilt-O-Shade™ will let to you adjust the slope of individual arms using a conventional crank. To find out which one is right for you, contact us. The actual look of an awning comes mostly from the choice of fabric.
Q: Can you print text or graphics on the awning fabric?
A: Yes. In fact, we are certified to use the Sunbrella Graphics System for high-quality, consistent results.
Q: If something happens to my awning after the warranty has expired, can I replace just the part that broke, or do I have to replace the whole awning?
A: Usually, just the part that broke. This may be easier or harder, depending on which part is broken. Also, different parts have different warranty lengths, ranging from 5 years (the industry norm) to lifetime warranty for the Adalia Extreme™ arm shoulders. So check to be sure that the warranty has expired.
Q: So how much does it cost?
A: There is no quick answer, because each awning is custom-made, and there’s a lot of factors that effect the cost. We will need to ask you a number of questions before we can give you a quote, so contact us.
Q: Are you looking for new dealers?
A: Always. North America is a large continent, and we will not rest until we have 100% coverage. Head over to the Dealer Inquiries page to get in touch with us.
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