A 2007 study conducted by the Center for Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota found that awnings can save homeowners up to 25 percent on energy costs. Awnings result in cooling energy savings by “reducing direct solar gain through windows.” In addition, according to the Department of Energy publication, Cooling Your Home Naturally, awnings block up to 77 percent of solar heat that is absorbed through windows.

A few things to keep in mind while meeting with one of our experts include: 

• What outdoor space are you looking to shade?
• How large of an awning will you require, including width and projection?
• How will the awning be attached to your home – roof, soffit or wall mount?
• What fabric color or pattern are you interested in?
• What type of options should I include for my needs?
• What type of warranty comes with the awning model you select?
• What is the timeline from the time you place the order to the time of the install?

Retractable awnings are not only easy to operate, they’re also easy to maintain. To start with, the location of your awning determines the frequency we recommend cleaning it. If your home is located inland, you should clean your awning twice a year. If you are on or near the ocean, you should clean your awning once a month due to the salt exposure.

To clean your awning, spray off loose debris and dirt with a water hose. For bird droppings and other attached residue, use warm water and a soft bristled scrub brush on the spot requiring attention before rinsing with your hose. After you have removed any loose dirt and/or residue, allow your awning to dry completely before coating with a rain repellent.

If there is any damage, have the fabric repaired before you store it for the winter. If the braid along the front edge of the valance has frayed, replace it.

Retractable awnings are primarily for sun protection and should not be left out in windy conditions or when the area the product is covering is not being used. Wind is an unpredictable force, however, and can quickly change direction and intensity. In “real life” applications the rule of thumb is: if you are comfortable sitting outside dining or reading the paper, then it is probably safe to use your awning. The concern with wind is a lifting effect on the awning rather than the downward force; therefore, the greater the pitch, the more wind resistant the unit is.