Frequently Asked Questions
Q #1: Can I use a retractable awning for both sun and light rain?
A: Yes, provided that the awning has a minimum 15° slope or greater (20° if the projection is more than 11' 8"). Anything less will lead to water pooling on top of the fabric, causing the fabric to become deformed (see warranty).
Q #2: Do you provide installations?
A: Our installation department is servicing the following areas: Toronto, North York, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Maple, Woodbridge, Kleinburg, Scarborough, Markham, Unionville, Pickering, Stouffville, Uxbridge, Newmarket, Aurora, King City, Nobleton, Bolton, Caledon, Georgetown, Brampton, Etobicoke, Milton, Mississauga and Oakville.
Q #3: Is the fabric waterproof?
A: No, but it is water-repellent. That means that the fabric will not let water soak through freely, but it will get wet. We recemment that after the storm has passed, it is best to let the awning dry out (2 to 3 hours after a full soaking) before retracting it. However, it is safe to roll up a wet awning for one or two nights, if bad weather persists. Please refer to question #1 for slope requirements in order to use the awning for rain protection.
Q #4: Can I use a retractable awning during snowfall?
A: No. A few snowflakes, like light rain, will not harm the awning, but unlike rain, snow will accumulate on top of the fabric, weighing down on the fabric and the frame.
Q #5: Should I roll up my awning during strong winds? And how strong is strong?
A: Yes, you should retract an awning during strong winds. As a general rule of thumb, you should retract the awning when the wind is so strong that you do not feel comfortable being outside. Typically retractable awnings can withstand wind up to 30-35 km/hour. This does not account for wind gusts.
Q #6: Can I adjust the slope of my awning after it is installed?
A: Yes. The method by which you do it depends on the model. The Adalia X3M Plus™ and Tilt-O-Shade™ models allow you to adjust the slope using the same crank you use to extend and retract the awning. Other models will require a few simple tools for the adjustment.
Q #7: I would like a retractable awning but I can't easily operate a conventional crank. What can be done?
A: The easiest remedy is having an awning equipped with a remote controlled motor. In this this case you will have hand held remote which enables you to extend, retract or stop the awning at any intermediate position. There are a variety of other electronic devices available (such as weather sensors etc) with motorized awnings.
Q #8: I would like to get a retractable awning, but I have limited space where I want it. Is there a way for me tell if my project is possible?
A: Call or email us. There are many different ways to install an awning, and we have almost 30 years of experience in figuring out the best way to do it. We will ask you a few specific questions about construction of your house and area which you wish to cover in order to make recommendations. To make things even easier, please take pictures of the location and email them to us.
Q #9: What do I do if the fabric on my awning gets dirty?
A: Fabric gets dirty, it's a fact of life. The material can be washed off easily. We recommend that you use mild cleansers and a soft brush or terry cloth (see fabric care section of warranty). Don't forget to let the fabric dry before retracting it.
Q #10: What is the maximum width of a retractable awning?
A: The only limit is in the dimensions of your building. By fitting more than two arms, we can make awnings that are well over 20 feet wide. Typically it is recommended to stay within 20 feet wide as a single unit. For wider areas you can install multiple awnings side by side.
Q #11: Do retractable awnings come in standard sizes?
A: The arms (which determine projection from the wall) are limited to set sizes however, we manuafacture the arms in 6 different sizes to accommodate most. Width is custom size down to the nearest inch.
Q #12: Some of the models of retractable awnings on your Products page look very similar. What's the difference?
A: The difference between most of the conventional retractable awnings is noticed in their function rather than their appearance. For example, only the Adalia X3M Extenda™ will give you an awning that is longer than its width, only the Physique XL™ uses 13-foot-long arms, and only the Tilt-O-Shade™ will let to you adjust the slope of individual arms using a conventional hand crank. To find out which awning is right for you, visit Our Products page or contact us.
Q #13: Can you print text or graphics on the awning fabric?
A: Yes. In fact, we are certified to use the Sunbrella Graphics System for high-quality, consistent results.
Q #14: If something happens to my awning after the warranty has expired, can I replace just the part that broke, or do I have to replace the whole awning?
A: Depending on the part and the damage sustained it can be replaced. With more severe damage, a new awning might be recommended. Please read the warranty for terms and conditions.
Q #15: So how much does it cost?
A: There is no quick answer as each awning is custom made to suit your needs, as well as factoring in all the various options which determine the cost. We will need to ask you some questions before we can give you a quote. The best way to obtain a proper estimate is to arrange for a free in-home consultation with our field represantatives. If you are outside our service area please contact us.
Q #16: Are you looking for new dealers?
A: Always. We will not rest until we have 100% coverage. Head over to the Dealer Inquiries page to get in touch with us.
Q #17: Can the awning be installed by the home owner?
A: Absolutely. Anyone with basic DO IT YOURSELF skills and proper tools, accompanied with our detailed step by step installation manual should be able to install the awning.
Q #18: How much sun will be blocked?
A: Approximately 95% to 98% of the sun's rays are blocked. The tightly wooven acrylic fabric allows very little sun to penetrate the fabric cover.
Q #19: Can you do window or door awnings too?
A: Yes, absolutely. We manufacture several models of window and door awnings. Please refer to our products page.
Q #20: What is the difference between a high quality ROLLTEC® awning and someone else's?
A: We produce most of our awnings' components in our factory located in Concord, Ontario, Canada. We use only top quality materials such as extruded aluminum and stainless steel. Furthermore, to assure we retain the highest quality standards, we use computerized sewing operations, which provide flawless stitching and seams on all awning fabric covers. Our on-staff engineering team is continuosly designing and perfecting all aspects os awning technology.
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