Use & Care
Our stationary awnings are built with a steel frame that has the fabric stretched over it to resemble the construction of an umbrella or tent. Stationary awnings are designed to help keep you cool by providing shade on hot summer days, and to keep your space dry by offering cover on rainy days. They are not built to handle weight from things being hung from them; please do not hang items from an awning's frame.
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A 3-season stationary awning will need to have the fabric taken down and stored (in a cool, dry place) every winter, as it will not have been built to withstand the elements. A 3-season frame is likely to buckle under the weight of snow, and the awning's fabric canopy is almost guaranteed to stretch under its weight. Not only will the fabric become saggy and unsightly, rain water will pool and seep through, its waterproof capabilities completely gone.
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We offer services for taking down awning fabric, storing them in our climate controlled storage facility, and rehanging them come spring. We can also send awnings in our care out for professional cleaning. For a comprehensive list of all of our services, see our Maintenance Services page.
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If you choose a 4-season awning, your salesman will explain what material you can choose from and what type of frame structure must be built to tolerate most weather conditions. The frame of a 4-season awning is built stronger than that of a 3-season awning in order to handle snow loads. You will also likely be advised to use an architectural grade vinyl fabric instead of our 3-season acrylic fabrics. Your salesman can guide you to the best options for your planned use.
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Some customers choose to have a 4-season frame built that they have covered with a 3-season acrylic fabric in the warm months for its breathability; then they change their canopy out to a 4-season fabric for the winter. Some even add roll-up walls to keep their space comfortable, often with the help of an outdoor space heater.
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Whatever type of stationary awning you have, it is advised that you have the fabric taken down if winds are expected to climb above 40 miles-per-hour, as in the case of an impending storm. Being aware and wary of bad weather and responding accordingly will not only extend the life of your awning, but will also help to avoid damage to the structure that the frame is attached to.
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We also build retractable awnings, which are designed to roll up against a wall when not in use and open up to provide impromptu shade when needed. The fabric is attached to a lightweight aluminum frame with lateral arms that fold in when the awning is rolled up, and they come in both manual and motorized varieties. Retractable awnings are not made to handle the weight of water, so they should be closed and stored even in a light rain. They are strictly designed for shade only and are not to be used during rain or wind as either can damage the unit permanently, voiding your warranty.
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If you have any unanswered questions, please feel free to contact us by phone at (845) 425-1193 M-F 8am-5pm EST. We would be happy to share our knowledge with you and would welcome your call.