Let Eclipse Shading Systems show you how retractable awnings work and how they can enhance your home.
As wonderful as the outdoors can be, the sun can make it a challenge to spend a day outside. Even on wonderfully cool autumn afternoons or satisfying spring mornings, the sun’s UV rays can quickly bombard you and potentially cause discomfort.
This problem isn’t only for beach states. Everything from lake home retreats to tightly packed historic neighborhoods can have a backyard paradise ruined by harsh sunlight. Fortunately, there’s a way to transform your patio or deck easily and affordably into an outdoor living room with plenty of cool, comfortable shade.
Retractable awnings for the patio or deck are a convenient solution to protect you and your family from the sun and rain. Whether you are hosting an outdoor party or relaxing in the shade, these awnings allow you to fully enjoy the time you spend outdoors.
Have you ever wondered how awnings work and what they are made of? Maybe you’re considering adding this feature to your own home, but you’re not sure if it’s the right fit for you. Let’s talk about what makes retractable awnings unique, how to operate them, and what types are available.
A Seasonable Solution with Simple Storage
One of the best things about retractable awnings are their convenience and easy storage! Motorized awnings can be taken out during the warm months so you can create a shady, cool spot on warm, sunny days. When the weather gets too cold to spend time outdoors, simply put your retractable awning away for the winter. When you are not using it, the awning easily rolls up into a cassette for a space-saving storage option that fits in your garage or spare room. It keeps your awning protected until you’re ready to use it again.
Choosing the Right Awning for Your Home
Versatility is key with retractable awnings, which makes it easy to find one that’s perfectly suited to your outdoor space. These awnings are available in multiple styles and colors, so it’s easy to find one that complements your home’s exterior. Here at Eclipse Shading Systems, we use Sunbrella awnings exclusively – with more than 150 colors and patterns to pick from, Sunbrella is the industry’s leading producer of sturdy, 100% acrylic outdoor fabrics.
A variety of awning sizes are available as well, allowing you to cover all or some of your patio, porch, or deck. Whatever you can envision, we can bring it to life.
What Are Retractable Awnings Made Of?
Retractable awnings are crafted with a variety of different materials. Eclipse Awnings are made from Sunbrella’s high-quality acrylic fabric and feature an aluminum infrastructure, which provides the ideal combination of strength and durability. Eclipse Shading Systems are also unique in that they include Advanced Belt Technology (ABT), which creates the perfect aesthetic finish.
How to Operate a Retractable Awning
Motorized retractable awnings can operate differently, whether they are manual or motorized, and can come with different types of arms: telescopic and articulated.
- For manual awnings, homeowners can operate them with a handle or crank. There are also awning models that have the fabric that winds up around a roller tube and then is pulled out and held in place by articulated arms. Articulated arms open by extending the spring-loaded arms of the awning. Sometimes these arms unfold automatically, and some are manually opened after the awning opens.
- Automatic awnings are operated with a motor that allows homeowners to store and take out their retractable patio awnings with the touch of a button. Most manufacturers include a remote control to go along with the awning. Motorized awnings also come with a manual override, just in case you lose power.
Telescopic arms have gas-filled cylinders and are typically seen in smaller patio awnings. Telescopic arms can cost more in maintenance because the gas can leak and has to be refilled.
Do you think a retractable awning is a good fit for your home? We’ve helped many property owners just like you enhance the value of their home and give themselves an outdoor oasis with durable, attractive patio awnings.
To learn more, contact Eclipse Shading Systems today at 845-692-7070. Our awning experts are standing by to answer your questions and give you helpful installation advice. The Eclipse Experience is all about bringing your home the next generation of solar shading features.
