FAQ
What is the difference between a high quality ROLLTEC® awning and someone else’s?
We produce most of our awnings’ components in our factory located in Concord, Ontario, Canada. We use only top quality materials such as extruded aluminum and stainless steel. Furthermore, to assure we retain the highest quality standards, we use computerized sewing operations, which provide flawless stitching and seams on all awning fabric covers. Our on-staff engineering team is continuously designing and perfecting all aspects of awning technology.
Is it true that fabric awnings save energy and cut energy costs?
Yes indeed. A study conducted by the American Society of Heating and Air Conditioning has proven that an awning over a window can reduce the indoor temperature by as much as 12ºC and heat gain by 55-65% for southern exposure and as much as 72-77% for western exposure. This results in significant savings on energy consumption and therefore energy costs.
Do you provide installations?
Our installation department is servicing the following areas: Toronto, North York, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Maple, Woodbridge, Kleinburg, Scarborough, Markham, Unionville, Ajax, Pickering, Stouffville, Uxbridge, Newmarket, Keswick, Aurora, King City, Nobleton, Bolton, Caledon, Georgetown, Brampton, Etobicoke, Milton, Mississauga, Oakville and Burlington.
Can I use a retractable awning for light rain?
Yes, provided that the awning has a minimum 15° slope or greater. Anything less will lead to water pooling on top of the fabric, causing the fabric to stretch.
Is the fabric waterproof?
No, but it is water-repellent. That means that the fabric will not let water soak through freely and the rain will run off. Once the rain has stopped, we recommend letting the awning dry out before retracting it. It is, however, safe to roll up a wet awning for one or two nights, if bad weather persists. Please refer to the previous question for slope requirements in order to use the awning for rain protection.
Can I use a retractable awning during snowfall?
No. A few snowflakes will not harm the awning, but heavy snow will accumulate on top of the fabric, weighing down on the fabric and the frame.
Should I roll up my awning during strong winds? And how strong is strong?
Yes, you should retract an awning during strong winds. As a general rule of thumb, you should retract the awning when the wind is so strong that you do not feel comfortable being outside. Typically retractable awnings can withstand wind up to 30-35 km/hour. This does not account for wind gusts. Generally, retractable awnings have to be rolled up every night and should not be left open unattended.
Can I adjust the slope of my awning after it is installed?
Yes. The method by which you do it depends on the model. The Adalia X3M Plus™ and Tilt-O-Shade™ models allow you to adjust the slope using a hand crank. Other models will require a few simple tools for the adjustment.
I would like a retractable awning but I am afraid it will be difficult to operate it. What can be done?
You can consider adding a spring assist to a manually operated awning to make it easier to operate. Another option is having an awning equipped with a remote controlled motor. In this case, you will have a hand held remote which enables you to extend, retract or stop the awning at any intermediate position. There are a variety of other electronic devices available (such as weather sensors, etc…) with motorized awnings.
I would like to get a retractable awning, but I have limited space where I want it. How can i tell if installation is possible?
Call or email us. There are many different ways to install an awning, and we have over 30 years of experience in figuring out the best way to do it. We will ask you a few specific questions about the construction of your house and area which you wish to cover in order to make recommendations. To make things even easier, please take pictures of the location and email them to us.
What do I do if the fabric on my awning gets dirty?
Fabric gets dirty, it’s a fact of life. The material can be washed off easily. This can be done by gently brushing off any loose dirt, debris etc., then hosing off the fabric with clear water (do not use a power washer as this may damage the fabric), you may use a solution of mild natural soap (ie. Ivory Snow® or Woolite®) and water, combined with a soft bristled brush or cloth to clean off any dirt. The water should be cold to lukewarm, (never more than 100°F or 35°C), rinse thoroughly to remove all soap then leave awning extended to allow sufficient time for air drying. Performing this minor maintenance regularly (2 to 3 times a season) ensures a beautiful appearance and long lasting life of your fabric top.
For stubborn stains, you may add a small amount of bleach or Dawn® dish soap to the cleaning solution. Always, rinse well to remove all cleaning agents and allow sufficient time for air drying.
What is the maximum width of a retractable awning?
The only limit is in the dimensions of your building. By fitting more than two arms, we can make awnings in practically any width. Typically awnings under 20′ are more stable in windy conditions, easier to operate and will have a longer lifespan. For wider areas, you can consider installing multiple awnings side by side.
Do retractable awnings come in standard sizes?
All of our awnings are manufactured to our client’s specification. Custom widths are available in one inch increments. Lateral arms which determine the projection of the awning come in 6 standard sizes.
Some of the models of the retractable awnings on your Products page look very similar. What’s the difference?
The difference between most of the conventional retractable awnings is noticed in their function rather than their appearance. 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 hand crank. To find out which awning is right for you, visit Our Products page or contact us.
Can you print text or graphics on the awning fabric?
Yes. In fact, we are certified to use the Sunbrella Graphics System for high-quality and consistent results.
If something happens to my awning for whatever reason, can I replace just the part that broke, or do I have to replace the whole awning?
One of the greatest benefits of dealing with a local Canadian manufacturer is easy access to replacement parts. Depending on the part and the damage sustained, most parts can be replaced. With severe damage or with extremely old models, it might make more sense to buy a new awning.
So how much does it cost?
There is no quick answer as each awning is custom made to suit your needs, as well as factoring in all the various options which determine the cost. We will need to ask you some questions before we can give you a quote. The best way to obtain a proper estimate is to arrange for a free in-home consultation with our field representatives. If you are outside our service area please contact us to locate a dealer near you.
Are you looking for new dealers?
Always. Our company is constantly growing, and we seek to establish long-term business relationships with reputable distributors of our products. Head over to the Dealer Inquiries page to get in touch with us.
Can the awning be installed by the home owner?
Absolutely. Anyone with basic DO IT YOURSELF skills and proper tools, accompanied by our detailed step by step installation manual should be able to install the awning.
How much sun will be blocked?
Approximately 95% to 98% of UV rays are blocked. Even the lightest fabric allows for an adequate time you can spend without protection under the awning avoiding potential skin damage. For example, a person with light skin risks a sunburn in case of unprotected exposure after 5 to10 minutes. The same person can stay under the awning with the lightest fabric for 150 to 300 minutes and as fabric gets darker you will be able to spend more time.
What is the average life expectancy of the fabric top on a retractable awning? Can fabric top be replaced?
On average, the fabric top is made from solution-dyed acrylic which lasts between ten to fifteen years- providing that basic cleaning is performed regularly. It also depends on how often you use your awning and the amount of pollution in your area. If necessary, you can easily replace the fabric top and still use the original hardware. The approximate cost for the fabric replacement vs replacing the entire awning is 40 to 50%.
Can you do window or door awnings too?
Yes, absolutely. We manufacture several models of window and door awnings. Please refer to our products page.
