Q: Can I open my awning in winter?

• <div><p>You can indeed open your awning in winter. It&rsquo;s a misconception that you can only open retractable awnings in the warmer months. In fact, modern awnings are strong enough to offer a little respite from the snow if you&rsquo;re someone who enjoys sipping hot cocoa outside on a beautiful winter day. But if a big storm is coming, such as a hurricane or a blizzard, it&rsquo;s best to close your awning until the weather calms down.</p></div>

Q: Can awnings handle heavy rain?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s not a good idea to allow heavy rain to fall on your awning, as puddling can occur and overload the awning. Your awning should be able to handle a light rain, though you should allow it to dry out before retracting it or open it to dry as soon as the rain stops. As always, consult manufacturer guidelines for using and caring for your awning.</p></div>

Question 1

Should I install retractable awnings myself?

Accepted Answer

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If you're handy, it might be worth trying to install retractable awnings yourself. Just keep in mind that motorized retractable awnings require much more know-how, and the risk of something costly going wrong (such as damaging your new awnings) is higher.

Mechanical awnings should be easy to install for the average person with some handyman skills.

Question 2

Can I open my awning in winter?

Accepted Answer

•

You can indeed open your awning in winter. It’s a misconception that you can only open retractable awnings in the warmer months. In fact, modern awnings are strong enough to offer a little respite from the snow if you’re someone who enjoys sipping hot cocoa outside on a beautiful winter day. But if a big storm is coming, such as a hurricane or a blizzard, it’s best to close your awning until the weather calms down.

Question 3

What is the best material for metal awnings?

Accepted Answer

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Stainless steel and copper are the most durable and will probably last the longest, especially when you compare them to fabric awnings. Steel is the most popular if your budget isn’t a top priority, but some people prefer copper awnings over steel because they are lighter, which makes them easier to install. Aluminum offers a more budget-friendly metal awning option that is still attractive and offers some durability, especially compared to fabric.

Question 4

Why should I install metal awnings over fabric?

Accepted Answer

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Metal awnings last much longer than fabric thanks to their durability and resistance to fading, sun damage, and damage from the outside elements. They also need less maintenance than fabric options. Both items add curb appeal to your home, but you shouldn't expect either type of awning to add property value to your home.

Question 5

Can awnings handle heavy rain?

Accepted Answer

•

It’s not a good idea to allow heavy rain to fall on your awning, as puddling can occur and overload the awning. Your awning should be able to handle a light rain, though you should allow it to dry out before retracting it or open it to dry as soon as the rain stops. As always, consult manufacturer guidelines for using and caring for your awning.