If
there are no poles,
what supports the awning?
Durasol lateral arm awnings (a.k.a. deck and patio awnings) have been
designed to be self-supporting. This style of awning relies on secure
mounting to the structure in conjunction with spring loaded arms. The
arm tension is created with internal springs and large radius elbows
will keep the fabric tight by applying outward force.
What happens to retractable awnings in the winter?
By design, Durasol awnings are self-storing when retracted. Many
customers remove the loose hanging valance for winter storage, while
others do nothing more than keep the unit retracted. Some continue to
use their awnings all year long!
What kind of wind loads can the awning handle?
Retractable awnings are primarily for sun protection and should not be
left out in windy conditions. Wind is an unpredictable force, however,
and can quickly change direction and intensity. In a controlled
environment wind tunnel test, the S4000 withstood direct wind forces of
over 50 mph. In "real life" applications the rule of thumb is:
if you are comfortable sitting outdoors dining or reading the paper,
then it is probably safe to operate your awning. The concern with wind
is a lifting up effect on the awning rather than a downward force;
therefore, the greater the pitch, the more wind resistant the unit is.
Durasol now offers an affordable addition to all their motorized
awnings: a Durasol, marine-grad wind sensor. The wind sensor, in
conjunction with a Durasol SmartBox™, tells your awning to retract
when wind speeds increase, reducing the potential for damage.
Why would I want my awning motorized?
Nothing could be more convenient than simply flipping a switch and
watching your awning roll out effortlessly. Once fully extended or
retracted the unit will stop automatically. You may also stop the awning
in any position by simply pressing the button a second time. Research
has shown that a motorized awning is used four times as much as a manual
unit. With Durasol'
s new line of electronic accessories, your local dealer can create
the system that fits your unique needs. And if you are concerned with
loss of power while your awning is extended don't worry, we've got you
covered. Durasol offers line of tubular motors that incorporate a manual
override, which allows you to hand-crank the awning in the event of a
power loss.
How long will the fabrics last?
Today's lightweight, acrylic woven fabrics are designed to provide the
homeowner with years of protection against rot, mildew and excessive
fading. Durasol's warranty covers all the products they produce for a
period of five years. Life expectancy, when cleaning and care
instructions are followed, should be eight to twelve years on
retractable awnings.
When would I need a protective hood?
The optional protective hood, available at an additional cost, has been
designed to provide adequate unit protection when structural protection
is not available. Hoods are often purchased when the awning is roof
mounted or fascia mounted and when it is not located directly under a
soffit or overhang.
What if I have a limited amount of space under the soffit or
overhang of my home? For example, a single level ranch, second story
bi-level.
Durasol has developed a roof mounting system for their S series awnings
when limited mounting exists; for example, less than 8' from the deck
surface to mounting location. This mounting system allows for water,
wind, and snow to pass under the unit safely. The brackets are anchored
into the roof rafter and properly sealed to prevent leaking.
Are there any other weather conditions I should be concerned
about?
Durasol's S series of retractable awnings are primarily designed to
protect you from the damaging and harsh rays of the sun. These products
are not designed for rain protection; however, they can be used in
drizzle or misting rains with proper unit pitch when strong winds are
not present. In heavy or driving rains, the units must be retracted to
avoid water from "pooling" on the fabric and causing damage or
irreversible fabric stretching.
How will the awning mount to my home?
Factory trained professionals locate the structural framework of the
home and pre-drill installation bracket holes through any siding to tie
in directly to either wall studs or headers. On roof mount applications,
the installers tie into the rafters. They pre-drill to avoid cracking,
and add silicone caulk to the hardware and brackets for leak prevention.
All mounting applications utilize 3/8" lag bolts, in varying
lengths, depending on mounting surface.
What does an average sized S4000 cost?
Due to the custom-made nature of the S4000 and the uniqueness of each
application, prices cannot be given without verified measurements and
actual size inspection. Your local representative will meet with you for
a free, in-home consultation to design an awning that's right for you!
The typical custom-made unit, professionally installed, will range
between $2,200 and $3,200. Again, with a wide range in product size and
a vast variety of options for this custom-made product with over 700,000
combinations, installed prices can range from $1,500 to over $5,000. It
may be hard to believe, but there are more than 130 billion combinations
for this one product alone!
How long does it take to be installed once my order is placed?
Durasol awnings are produced within two weeks. Allowing for shipping
time and the dealer's present workload, your awning should be installed
in four to six weeks.
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