Whether you just purchased an Awning for your home or you are on the fence about it and want to know more, this is a guide for homeowners and Awnings that includes FAQ about cleaning them, common issues you might run into with your Awnings, and what to do when bad weather hits your home.
But first, let’s talk about some of the benefits of Awnings for your home!
UV Blockers: If you like sitting outside in your garden but don’t like the sun to be constantly beating down on you, Awnings are great at blocking UV rays and light. Not only can this be good for you, but if you get the Awning installed off of a connecting room such as a living room, garden room, conservatory, or nook, it can also help keep the sun off of your flooring, furniture, and artwork. UV can fade these things over time.
Block Light Rain: If you like having your windows open but hate when the light rain comes in your windows, an Awning is a cool and easy way to block the rain. Of course, if it gets too heavy and you have an Awning that retracts it’s a better idea to pull it in, but if it’s just a light rain it should be okay.
Reduce Cooling Costs: This is a big PLUS for a lot of homeowners. For the same reason you might install new windows or insulation, a lot of homeowners will choose to install window Awnings that will help keep the heat out of your home. This translates to a substantial amount of savings on your cooling costs each year.
Cleaning your Awnings
When Should You Do It: You should be cleaning your Awnings with soap and water every 2-3 months, especially if you have a lot of rain or snow in your area. You should also be cleaning them off by sweeping them every month or so. This removes any dirt, debris, or leaves from the Awnings.
What Cleaner Should I Use?: You can just use warm soapy water with laundry detergent. However, you can also purchase metal cleaning solvent for metal Awnings or fabric cleaning solvent for fabric Awnings.
Can I Use A Scrubber?: Yes! You can use a scrubber, sponge, or a brush to clean your Awnings. Just make sure the brush is soft rather than hard-bristled.
Common Issues with Awnings/Weather Issues
As with any product, whether it’s brand new or years old, you will have issues. The majority of the time, these are easily fixable issues that you can do on your own. Some of the most common issues are included below:
– Rain is Collecting on The Awning: The purpose of an Awning is to ensure that it has a hitch or an angle to it, so that rain can flow off of it. If rain is collecting in the middle of the Awning, it is because the installer did not install it properly. Make sure you find someone to install it who knows how to do this properly!
– Pests: Bugs, bees, and ants can create an issue with your Awnings, especially if it is a motorized or retractable awning. Yes, pests can cause damage to your Awning. Make sure you keep food and drinks (and garbage cans) away from the vicinity of the Awnings.
– Windy Weather: Chances are if you have windy weather in your area, you were probably recommended retractable Awnings – these Awnings roll in when not in use and out when in use. Make sure if the wind picks up, you retract it so that the Awnings do not get damaged or ripped.
Overall, Awnings do not cost a ton of money and offer a lot of functional benefits for your business or home. If you get a reputable company to install the Awnings and you take care of them, they should last for years to come, with little to no issues. View our awnings here.