Savings $$
Will awnings reduce my air-conditioning costs?
Yes. Awnings conserve energy by shading windows and reducing indoor temperatures. Studies by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRE) have shown that awnings on windows and patio doors can reduce inside temperatures by as much as 8-15 degrees, depending on the exposure of the window, and the style and method of attaching the awning. In addition canvas awnings are designed to removed during the winter months thus restoring the sun in your home for added warmth and additional savings.
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Framework
If I purchase a traditional patio awning, can the frame be dismantled for the winter months?
Yes it can. However, it's important that you inform your salesman of this requirement, so that the awning is designed for this purpose and the proper slip fittings are used.
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Water-repellency
Are awnings waterproof? Can I stay out under my awning during the rain?
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Generally speaking, awning fabrics are water-repellent, not waterproof. The fabrics' water-repellent characteristics allow you to fully enjoy the space shaded by the awning during any weather conditions that aren't severe. |
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Cleaning
How do I keep my awning clean?
Care & Cleaning of Sunbrella Fabric
Sunbrella is made from 100% solution-dyed acrylic fiber, which gives it color brightness that is unsurpassed. Being a woven fabric it breathes and is translucent. It is guaranteed for a period of five years against loss of color or strength from normal exposure conditions including sunlight, mildew, rot, and atmospheric chemicals. Sunbrella has a fluorocarbon finish which provides excellent water repellency.
Sunbrella fabric should be cleaned regularly before substances such as dirt, roofing particles, etc., are allowed to accumulate on and become embedded in the fabric. The fabric can be cleaned without removing from the frame. Simply brush off any loose dirt, then hose down and clean with a mild solution of natural soap in lukewarm water (no more than 100 degrees F.) Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. DO NOT USE DETERGENTS. Allow to air dry.
Kreider's Canvas Service offers a reasonably priced removal, cleaning, storage and rehanging service on a yearly basis. Please call our office (717)656-7387 for more information.
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Storage
How do I store my awnings in the winter months?
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| Kreiders Canvas Service offers removal and storage service for awnings and canopies. If you prefer to do this yourself, make sure to clean and dry your awnings before you store them. Give them a final brushing to remove all debris. Fold or roll the awnings, then cover and store them in a cool, dry place. |
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Retractables
Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned about?
Retractable awnings primarily are designed to provide protection from the sun's rays and not from rain. However, it can be used in drizzle or misting rains with minimal winds and with proper unit pitch. In heavy or driving rains or wind, the unit must be retracted to keep water from "pooling" on the fabric and causing damage or irreversible fabric stretching.
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Permits
Do I need a building permit for an awning?
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| Not for most residential awnings. However, lately most commercial awnings do require a permit. In some areas, more than one permit is required, such as one for graphics and another for historic district approval. Typically the fees for permits are minimal. |
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Questions to ask an awning company
Does the awning company provide references?
All professional awning companies should be able to provide a list of satisfied clients who can testify to the type of workmanship they have experienced.
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Questions to ask an awning company
Does the company carry insurance?
An awning company should carry liability insurance and workers compensation to protect you in the event of an accident.
Workers Accident. Be aware that if a worker is injured on your property, the homeowner can be held liable for all costs unless the worker is covered by worker's compensation insurance.
Uninsured Contractors. Companies who do not carry insurance will be cheaper to hire since they do not carry insurance. Cheaper does not mean better in this case.
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Questions to ask an awning company
How long has the awning company been in business?
| The longer an awning company has been in business usually translates into MORE experience and better service. |
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