Frequently Asked Questions About
Awnings, Canopies and Shading Solutions

Frequently Asked Awning Questions

• What is a retractable awning?

A shading system that is self-supporting and can provide shade when you want it, but retracts when shade is not required.  Sometimes called a lateral arm awning, it relies on spring loaded arms to extend the awning and apply tension to keep the awning fabric taut when open.

• What supports a lateral arm awning if it does not have supporting poles?

A good quality retractable awning should not need support poles. Quality deck or patio awnings rely on two things:  1) a secure mounting to your structure in conjunction and 2) a strong framework to support its own weight. The arm tension is created from springs inside the arms. Large radius elbows will keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.

• What happens when I’m not using my awning?

A retractable awning is self-storing. It is retracted when not in use. In the retracted position, it is protected from damage that adverse weather can cause.  When storing for extended periods or putting it away for the winter, make sure to clean and dry your awning before you store it. Give is a final brushing to remove all debris. In the winter months, some owners choose to purchase a "winter cover" for their awning.  Customers should remove their loose hanging valance for winter storage, to prevent the braid from becoming frayed and tattered.

• How are retractable deck and patio awnings installed?

This is a job best left to professional awning installers. A qualified installer locates the structural framework of the home and pre-drills installation bracket holes through any siding to tie in directly to either wall studs or headers. On roof mount applications, the installers tie into the rafters. They pre-drill to avoid cracking, and add silicone caulk to the pre-drilled holes, hardware and brackets for leak prevention. Most mounting applications utilize 3/8" lag bolts in varying lengths, depending on mounting surface.

• How do I keep my awning clean? 

Generally by doing a once-a-year cleaning, with additional, more frequent care if dirt or discoloration appears. The regular cleaning schedule starts with the first year in which the awning is in service.  In harsher environments such as cities or beach areas, or in heavily wooded areas - you will want to rinse your fabric monthly.   Call us for specific instructions.  Bergen Awnings also offers cleaning services.

• How do I keep birds out of my awning? 

There is no fool proof way to stop Mother Nature, but there are products out there that can possibly be retrofitted to your awning that may or may not work.  If you've tried everything and are ready for a new awning, the cassette-style retractable awning was designed partially with birds in mind and does an excellent job keeping the fabric safe. 

 

• Why would I want my awning motorized?

Nothing is more convenient than simply flipping a switch or pressing a remote and watching your awning roll itself out effortlessly. Once fully extended or retracted the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the awning at your favorite position by simply pressing the button a second time. Research has shown that a motorized awning is used 600% more than a manually operated awning. With electronic accessories, we can create the system that fits your unique needs.

 

 

 Solar Screen Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Solar Screen?

A shading system that is self-supporting and can provide shade when you want it, but retracts when shade is not required.  Sometimes called a drop shade or solar shade, it can operate, depending on size, with a manual pull chain (interior screens only), a manual hand crank, or can also be motorized for easy operation.

 

Gennius Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Gennius?

A Gennius is a bit of a hybrid product.  Part retractable awning, part pergola... The Gennius has a stationary frame with retractable fabric.  It has integrated rainwater management technology and is engineered specifically for customers who want to maximize their outdoor living.

 

Frequently Asked Stationary Awning Questions

• How do I keep my awning clean? 

Generally by a once-a-year cleaning, with additional care if dirt or discoloration appears. The regular cleaning schedule starts with the first year in which the awning is in service.  In harsher environments such as cities or beach areas, or in heavily wooded areas - you will want to rinse your fabric monthly.   Bergen Awnings also offers cleaning services.

 

 

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