The Best Retractable Awnings

Outdoor awnings can boost any property’s value and are excellent for entertaining guests in style and comfort. If you own a business, awnings make a favorable first impression with customers. If you own a restaurant, awnings allow you to offer outdoor dining options. If you own a house, awnings not only look attractive, but they also help regulate your home’s temperatures throughout the year. Benefits of retractable awnings include all of the following:

• Protection from 90% of the sun’s UV rays
• Easy to install and use with the touch of a button
• Improves your outdoor space’s functionality
• Protects your furniture and flooring from fading
• Reduces your home’s cooling bills in the summer
• Helps keep your home warm during the winter

If you take care of your retractable awning, it could last you 15 years or longer. Most awnings are more resilient than they look and can withstand light to medium winds and rain. Modern awnings are usually made from heavy-duty acrylic fabric, which won’t fade, rot, or mildew with the proper precautions. The Sunsetter® Shading Systems® awnings we carry at HutchCo Home & Bath feature fabric and framework warranties for your peace of mind about your new retractable awning investment.

Most retractable awnings project anywhere from 5-13 feet away from your house, with 8 feet being the minimum standard height requirement. Our professional installers will help you determine the best fit for your home. During a consultation appointment, we’ll measure your space and discuss your wants and needs to make the best recommendations.

The retractable awnings we carry are virtually maintenance-free to guarantee your satisfaction. Because your awning is an outdoor product, you’ll want to take care of it similar to your patio furniture or car. Washing your awning at least once a year will help you preserve its appearance and extend its service life. For the best results, we recommend hosing it off once a month to keep it clear of debris, dirt, and foliage. Applying a little bit of effort regularly will prevent you from needing more vigorous cleaning. For more stubborn dirt stains, you may use a soft-bristle brush and a mixture of water and natural soap. Never use any harsh detergents or cleaning products.

Although our retractable awnings are constructed of heavy-duty fabrics, they’re not meant to be open during high winds or heavy storms. However, if you find yourself in a sudden pop-up storm, you should be able to retract your awning within minutes, especially if you opt for a motorized version. Customers in locations known for having high winds regularly could ask about the possibility of an aluminum canopy or fixed-frame awning.

Retractable awnings should be stored in a cool, dry area for the winter or protected with a cover. Many owners also remove the loose hanging front valance for winter storage. However, some people prefer to use their retractable awnings year-round and do not require storage. It’s entirely up to you!

Awnings are usually water-repellent to allow you to sit under them even in the rain, but they are not exactly waterproof. While your awning will protect you against light to moderate rain, you shouldn’t use it during heavier storms because it can become damaged due to pooling water or the fabric stretching.  We always say to use your best judgment about whether you think it’s safe to be outside under your awning. If it’s a light drizzle, you should be fine. If it’s hailing, you’re probably better off indoors.

The darker the color of your awning, the more it will attract sunlight and retain heat. However, color isn’t the only factor that affects your awning’s temperature and ability to shade you. The type of fabric and its ventilation quality are also factors. Some awnings may have a lighter color on their underside to cool them off and allow more desired shade. Many modern awning fabrics are also designed to reflect heat rather than retain it, so the color choice doesn’t matter as much as it did in years past. The darker the awning, the darker you can expect the shade effect beneath it. HutchCo Home & Bath carries various sizes and colors of awnings, including white, brown, camel, and desert sand. No matter what color you choose, your new awning should keep the space underneath at least 20 degrees cooler.

You should look for an awning installation company with experience, as well as one with a reputation for providing the best retractable awnings and customer service. Reputable awning professionals will be able to provide references, testimonials, or a gallery of their work. You should also be able to view their products in a showroom to ensure you’re able to explore all of your available options. When you browse our reviews, you’ll see why so many have had an enjoyable customer experience with us. HutchCo Home & Bath has over 20 years of industry experience to offer superior service and product selection for homeowners throughout Western North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, and Midlands South Carolina. Reach out today to get started with a free retractable awning estimate!