FAQs for Awning Companies
Do you have questions about an upcoming awning installation or awnings in general? You’re not alone. Below, we’ve provided answers to several frequently asked questions about choosing and installing awnings.
Q: How do I know what type of awning is right for my home or business?
A: To find the right awning solution for you and your home, you’ll want to consider your specific needs, the location of your home or business, the number of awnings you’ll want to install and on which windows you want them, how you hope to use your awnings, your goals for your new awnings, and the amount you have to spend on purchasing and installing new awnings. Think about whether you want fixed awnings, removable awnings or motorized awnings. Freestanding awnings are also available.
Q: Can I expect my awnings to hold up in windy conditions?
A: Most high-quality awnings are sturdy enough to handle windy weather. However, if your home is in an area that regularly faces strong or gusty winds, ask your awning dealer which brands and models they recommend. Some awnings are built to stand up to high winds or gusty conditions. Some also come with optional braces and accessories to reduce strain and movement in the wind. You may also want to invest in retractable awnings and motorized awnings that can be closed on very windy days.
Q: Will a window awning help keep my home cooler?
A: Yes, properly positioned awnings can block direct sun rays from shining in windows and glass doors, which can keep your home much cooler and save you money on air conditioning.
Q: Will awnings keep my furniture and carpeting looking newer?
A: Yes. Opaque awnings that shade windows and glass doors keep direct sunlight from fading carpeting, furniture, and other belongings. Take note of when the sun shines in your home so you can be sure you get new awnings in the correct size and position.
Q: Can I install my new awning myself?
A: That depends on the type of awning you’ve purchased, where you want to install it and how handy you are at such home improvement projects. Some awnings are easy to install and come with all of the setup materials and instructions. Other awnings or installation locations may require you to hire a professional contractor to do the work. As with any home improvement project, consult a professional or company representative with questions and advice if you’re unsure whether you can install the awnings yourself. Many awning dealers provide installation services for an additional charge.
Q: Where can I install awnings?
A: Awnings are flexible, and styles exist for installation almost anywhere. Homes, businesses, mobile homes, garages, pool decks, outdoor living areas, porches, patios, outdoor dining areas and playground areas are all good fits for awnings. You’ll have the most installation options if the area in which you wish to install the awning has a stationary wall, but freestanding awnings are also available for yards, patios, playgrounds and other areas without solid walls.
Q: What are awnings made out of?
A: Most awnings are made from specialty woven fabrics. Many are laminated or coated to make them stronger, waterproof, fire-resistant, and resistant to mildew and fading. Some awnings are also treated with materials that make them UV-resistant, which can provide you with sun protection equal to high SPF sunscreen. High-quality outdoor awnings are often made with dyed-in colors, so they hold their color and don’t fade over time. You can also find awnings with protective coatings that help them last even longer, despite weather and natural degradation. The metal parts are usually built with powder-coated aluminum or another lightweight metal that resists rusting and corrosion. Well-made awnings can last up to 10 years if you care for them as the manufacturer recommends.
Q: Will my new awning be waterproof or will it leak in the rain?
A: That depends on the type and quality of awning you purchase. Many outdoor awnings are made with laminated or coated fabrics and then sealed with a clear coat that renders them water-repellent or even waterproof. In most cases, this will prevent leaks and keep water from seeping through. To prevent standing water or pooling, you may want to install the awning at a slight angle to help water roll off of the fabric. Some awnings are peaked or pitched, which naturally discourages water pooling. Other awnings should be rolled up, lowered or retracted when it’s raining.
Q: How should I clean my retractable awning?
A: Every manufacturer has their own preferred cleaning instructions, so you should find out the recommended method for your exact model of awning. Cleaning your awning incorrectly or with non-recommended solutions may void any warranties. This said, most awnings can be cleaned by brushing the dry fabric with a soft or medium-bristled brush. For heavier dirt, you can usually use warm water with a mild detergent. Stains and heavy soiling may require special cleaning instructions from the manufacturer. Your awning may last longer if you clean it often and schedule preventative maintenance for moving parts that require service.
Q: Will I have to remove and store my new awning during winter or inclement weather?
A: Permanent awnings are normally made to withstand all types of weather, so they usually don’t need to be removed. Retractable awnings can almost always be left up year-round; however, you may want to close the awning during snowy conditions or strong storms. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for suggested care and storage.
Q: Should I invest in a motorized retractable awning or is a crank awning just as useful?
A: Awnings will block sun just as effectively whether they’re motorized or manual, but motorized awnings are more convenient. They immediately roll out or retract with the flip of a switch, while manual awnings need to be cranked and/or pulled in and out. The decision is yours, but think about your priorities and whether you’d use the awning more often if it was easier to open and close.
Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified awning company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you purchase new awnings with confidence by offering a list of local, top rated companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only local awning companies rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified awning company.
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