Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a traditional stationary awning and a retractable awning?

A stationary awning is essentially permanent. The metal frame will stay in place and requires no support, though in bad weather you can remove the awning itself. Retractable awnings are adjustable. They must be rolled out with either an automated device or a hand crank. Retractable awnings are less sturdy than stationary awnings.

What’s the difference between and awning and a canopy?

An awning is entirely attached to a structure. By comparison, a canopy is fixed to a building on one site, with support poles that extend out from the building. Canopies may be found over entryways or patios, while awnings may be placed over windows and doorways.

Can you add my logo to an awning or canopy?

Yes! Adding your own graphics to an awning or canopy reinforces your branding efforts and makes it easier for customers to recognize your business.

How does the custom design process work?

First, we do a free consultation, where we’ll assess your needs and talk about what kind of product you envision. We offer a great variety of fabrics, colors, and designs as a starting point. We can add  your logo or other graphics or match an architectural style for any edifice. We handle the engineering, manufacturing, permitting, and installation processes for you.

Will awnings affect my energy costs?

Yes! Awnings over your windows can provide noteworthy savings. By shading the windows, you can reduce solar heat gain and lower indoor temperatures, which results in more efficient air conditioning in the summer. The EPA estimates that awnings can reduce that solar heat gain by as much as 77% on west-facing windows, and 65% on south-facing windows.

Will my awnings protect my floors and furniture?

Yes! Awnings block sunlight and provide shade which ultimately reduces fading in upholstery, rugs, and carpeting. It also reduces the effect sunlight has on hardwood floors and wooden furniture.

Will extreme weather harm my awnings?

While our awnings are durable and can withstand general inclement weather such as storms,  you should remove the awning in the event of a hurricane warning with the probability of winds over 90 mph. Retractable awnings are typically only intended to block sun. While they can withstand light rain, for storms and heavy downpours you should retract the awning to minimize the potential for damage, such as stretching as a result of water pooling. 

How do I store my awnings?

If you remove your awning for whatever reason, make sure it is thoroughly dry before storing it away. Never store an awning that is wet or damp, as this leads to mildew and permanent staining.

You should avoid folding or rolling the awning in cold temperatures, as well.

Never drag an awning across an abrasive surface. Either carry it or use some sort of cart to move it. Abrasive surfaces include cement and asphalt, and even the awning frame.

Can I have a grill or open flame beneath my awnings?

No. You should never cook food or have fires beneath or around the awnings.

How do I keep my awning clean?

Keep dirt, leaves and debris from accumulating on the surface and avoid letting water pool. This prevents stretching, rips and tears, and mildew damage.

The easiest way to clean your awning is simply to hose it down with clean water once a month. Choose a sunny day so that the awning will dry quickly. For vinyl-coated awnings, you can use a soft brush or cloth and mild soap, but make sure to rinse thoroughly and immediately.

You should also avoid letting the awning come in contact with insect sprays, which can impair the water-resistance of your awning and even cause staining.

Avoid harsh cleaning solutions as well as abrasive scrubbers.

What else should I do to maintain my awnings?

Make sure you keep the underside of your awnings clean, too!

Keep shrubbery and vines away from your awnings, as many bushes contain an acid that can be harmful to the fabric.

You should also periodically check the condition of the awning frames. While it’s unlikely that the frames will rust, if they do, they can stain the fabric or cause it to deteriorate. 

If my awning gets damaged, can it be fixed?

Yes. We do offer awning repair services. Don’t ignore any rips and tears, no matter how small — get them fixed right away. 

If you have any questions regarding the care of your awnings, please feel free to contact us by phone at 305-283-3434 or email at sales@dadebrowardawnings.com