Retractable awnings are an excellent way to improve your outdoor space. With customizable sun and rain protection, you can enjoy your porch or patio in all weather. To experience all the benefits, however, it’s important to install the awning correctly. Giglio Awning highlights several common mistakes with retractable awning installations that can affect how you enjoy your product.
Inaccurate Measurements
One of the first mistakes amateur and DIY installers make is with measurements. Taking accurate measurements is crucial to ensuring that you install the right awning size for your space. Improperly sized awnings can create a variety of problems, including:
- An awkward or mismatched appearance
- Insufficient shade over your door or window
- Inability to retract the awning completely
- Difficulty fitting to mounting brackets
These issues can be avoided by taking your time during the measurement step. Use accurate tools and measure multiple times to eliminate errors. You should also take the sun’s trajectory into account. This will help you evaluate the amount of coverage you will need. When in doubt, consult an expert. Manufacturer’s instructions or a local installer can provide specific sizing recommendations.
Insufficient Structural Support
The second common mistake is a failure to support the awning adequately. Though they may not look it, retractable awnings are heavy. They require structural support to withstand the elements. This support should also be level to distribute weight effectively. Uneven supports take different amounts of stress. The awning will begin to sag over time, and the retractors will stop working effectively. It may even cause damage to your home’s siding as the awning begins to pull away under its weight.
Structural support is provided by the awning’s mounting brackets. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to match the correct brackets to your awning. You’ll need heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant hardware that will stand up to various weather conditions. You may even want to reinforce your porch if it’s not sturdy enough to carry the awning’s load capacity. If you don’t have access to the tools you need, consider trusting a professional to do the job properly.
Inadequate Weatherproofing
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of weatherproofing. Many DIYers assume that retractable awnings don’t require the same amount of protection as fixed awnings. Even while retracted, however, an awning will still be exposed to the weather. Selecting high-quality material with reliable weatherproofing is vital to your awning’s long-lasting performance. Here are some of our tips for ensuring your awning’s longevity:
- Opt for weather-resistant fabrics.
- Look for materials that are protected against UV damage and fading.
- Make sure your awning’s seams and edges are properly sealed.
- Consider investing in an additional waterproof coating or sealant.
Even the highest-quality awning can be susceptible to weather damage when not winterized appropriately. Annual takedowns or storage in an awning boot will protect your awning against damage caused by winter winds and weather.
Trust the Experts in Awning Installation
Awning installation is a complex job, and a lot can go wrong. Luckily, you don’t need to manage it alone. Giglio Awning offers custom awning installation and maintenance services in New Jersey, reaching homeowners throughout Cape May, Atlantic, Ocean, Burlington, and Monmouth Counties. Our team is experienced in avoiding common errors and complications. We even offer an annual takedown service, ensuring that your awning is safely stored through the winter.
Skip the hassle and ensure a proper installation by working with Giglio Awning. Our fast-moving schedule means that we can have your awning installed within weeks. Contact us today to request your free consultation or to schedule repair service for an existing awning.