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.

Generally, however, 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.

Metal support frames are made from either galvanized steel or aluminum and will last a lifetime! 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.

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

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 50 m.p.h. 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 up-lifting effect on the awning rather than the downward force; therefore the greater the pitch, the more wind-resistant the unit is.

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.

Because most retractable awnings are customized for each residence, prices cannot be given without verified measurements and on-site inspection. Your awning supplier can typically meet with you for a free, in-home consultation to design an awning that's right for you.

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.

That's simple. Our designers are ready and able to assist you with putting your concept or product together and can provide you with pricing options. Just fax us at 717-392-1210 or email us at info@cbdombach.com a drawing or sketch to us and one of our sales associates will contact you as soon as possible.

You bet we do. We've been in this business a long time, so we've gathered a LOT of information. In order to help educate our customers about different aspects of awning production, we will be continuously updating our blog with interesting facts, technical information, and everything that goes on during our day-to-day jobs as awning manufacturers and installers. Check back regularly for new info, pictures, and practical help from awning professionals.

Well, you have a few options. You could call us at 717-392-0578 or 610-384-9589 or email us at info@cbdombach.com. We'll provide a free quote once we figure out the best awning solution for you!