Did you know that the tradition of relaxing under an awning started in Ancient Rome? Nowadays, awnings are used to block the sun and rain, to make our homes more inviting, and to make businesses stand out. There’s a lot that goes into the process of creating an awning. Many awnings, especially one’s made for businesses, are custom designed and tailored to fit the clients’ needs. Here’s what’s involved behind-the-scenes before your awning is delivered and installed.
Fabric
The whole process begins with the fabric. The colors have to be eye-catching as well as pleasing, and sometimes a business-owner will stipulate a specific color scheme or that a logo or other custom graphic be emblazoned on the fabric. After the correct colors are chosen, the tailor cuts out the pieces from the synthetic, weather-resistant material. The tailor then sews the pieces together with a special machine that keeps the fabric from bunching up. He takes a stencil to trace the pattern for the valence, and then cuts out the pattern with a steady hand.
Machinery
After the fabric is ready to go, it is attached to the metal framework that supports it. For a mechanical awning, the process is a bit more complicated. First, the fabric is attached to a metal tube and carefully rolled up. Next, a carrier bar is cut to size. Several intricate components are then attached to the tube and the fabric. Finally, a tubular motor is tested then installed inside the main tube of the awning. The openings to the main tube are sealed, and the awning gets tested. The whole process takes about an hour to complete for a standard awning, and the awning provides comfort and attractiveness for about ten years!
Installation
After we are sure that the awning is fully functional and ready to go, we can install the awning at your home or business! Our installers arrive with the awning and proceed to attach brackets at the correct spots to hold the awning. If you are installing a retractable awning and it has a hood, this is time to attach it. After tightening the hood with screws, the awning is finally attached. Bolts are inserted in the right places to secure the awning, and then your retractable awning is ready to keep you shaded and dry!
For more information about retractable awnings from Eclipse Shading Systems, contact Eclipse today!
