Awnings aren’t really complicated, but there are plenty of questions to be asked about them. Below are some of the most frequent questions we get about them at West Awning and Marine.

• How long does an awning last?

  Today’s fabrics are generally warranted from five to ten years. With proper maintenance and care, they can last even longer. The metal frames, when properly built, can last a lifetime.

• What colors are available?

  Today’s fabrics come in more than 500 solid and striped colors!

• Where can I learn more about fabric choices?

  Our suppliers have provided some useful information if you would like to learn more about awning types and fabrics. Feel free to visit one of our suppliers, Solair Shade Solutions, for more information.

• How do I keep my awning clean?

  Regular maintenance generally means a once-a-year cleaning, with additional care if stains or soilage appears. Also, remember that your awning is an exterior product. In the same way you wouldn’t leave your automobile outside without washing it for very long, you’ll also need to clean your canvas awning to preserve and extend its good looks and service life.

• Are awnings waterproof? Can I stay out under my awning in inclement weather?

  Generally speaking, awning fabrics are water-repellent, not waterproof. There are exceptions, though, which may be practical in certain environments. The fabrics’ water-repellent characteristics allow you to fully enjoy the space shaded by the awning during any weather conditions that aren’t severe. In other words, if the weather is nice enough for you to be outside, then it is good enough for you to be out underneath your awning.

• What are the support frames made from? How durable are they?

  Our metal support frames are made from aluminum. Regular maintenance on a frame requires an annual inspection of fasteners, connections and metal condition. Frames are also available with a painted finish for additional protection and attractiveness.

• How are the fabric seams connected?

  All of West Awnings’ products are sewn with Tenara® (rot-proof) thread which carries a written lifetime warranty. We even offer heat-sealed seams upon request.

• What should I look for in an awning professional?

  You should seek out a certified Master Fabric Craftsman-the highest level of certification offered by the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) (IFAI is the worldwide trade association for the industrial-fabrics industry.) Beyond that, make sure that the firm you select is an active member of the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association. Lastly, ask for a photographic portfolio of work the firm has done. By all means, pay a visit to their production facility!

• How long does it take to build once I place an order?

  As with any custom-manufactured product, there is a short lead time for quality work to be accomplished. For canvas awnings, depending on the size, this can mean as little as 5 days. Retractable awnings have a lead time of approximately two weeks. Of course, this varies depending on the time of the year, and it is not unusual for this lead time to run longer, especially in seasonal climates.

• How long will fabric on a stationary awning last?

  Today’s manufacturers of residential awning fabrics generally warrant them for five to ten years. With maintenance and care, they could last even longer. The metal frames will last a lifetime.

• Are there different types of awning fabrics?

  As with many products on the market today there are also many types of awning fabrics, however, West Awning only offers the best fabrics for your awning project.

• If there are no poles, what supports the unit?

  Retractable awnings have been designed to be self-supporting. This style of awning relies on secure mounting in conjunction with spring-loaded arms. The arm tension is created with internal springs, and large radius elbows keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.

• What kind of wind loads can a retractable awning handle?

  Retractable awnings primarily are for sun protection and should not be left out in windy conditions. However, wind is a very unpredictable force, with a tendency to change direction and speed very quickly. In a wind-tunnel test, which is a very controlled environment, a retractable awning withstood straight-on wind forces at over 35 mph. In “real-life” applications, the general rule of thumb is: If you are comfortable sitting outdoors dining or reading the paper, then it is probably safe to operate your awning. The concern with wind is the uplifting effect on the awning rather than the downward force; therefore the greater the pitch, the more wind-resistant the unit is.

• Why would I want my retractable awning motorized?

  Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping a switch and watching your awning roll out on its own. Once fully extended or retracted, the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the retractable in any position with the wall-mounted switch. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual unit. Don’t believe it? Consider how few times you would change the TV channel if you didn’t have a remote control.

• How long will the fabric last on retractable awnings?

  Today’s acrylic woven fabrics are designed to provide you with years of protection from rot, mildew, and excessive fading. Most suppliers warrant these fabric “covers” for a period of five to ten years. Life expectancy of the covers, when cleaning and care instructions are followed, is typically 8 to 12 years.

• 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 proper unit pitch. In heavy or driving rains, the unit must be retracted to keep water from “pooling” on the fabric and causing damage or irreversible fabric stretching.

• How will my retractable awning mount to my facility?

  We locate the structural framework and predrill the mounting bracket holes through any siding to tie in directly to either the wall studs or headers.

• What does an average-sized retractable awning cost?

  Because most retractable awnings are customized for each residence, prices cannot be given without verified measurements and on-site inspection.

• Will my awning give me water and weather protection?

  Generally today’s awning fabrics are considered water-repellent, not waterproof. Water-repellent awning and patio canopies will allow you to enjoy your deck or patio during most weather conditions that it is safe to be outside.

• How do I know how much an awning or patio canopy will cost?

  It’s easy, just e-mail us your info, or call us to set an appointment.

• Do you provide custom sewn products?

  Yes, we provide a wide variety of custom sewn products.

• How can I find out if my product or idea can be made?

  Simple: Just e-mail a drawing or sketch to us and our design coordinator will contact you and help you pull the concept or product together along with costing.
  We provide stationary & retractable awnings, backlit awnings, sewn products for both local and national clients. We welcome inquires of all types, just contact us.
  West Awning can provide a cost-effective solution to any business. Call for a FREE on-site evaluation at 843-763-9378, or email us at westawning@gmail.com.